Common Sense Media Review
By Andrea Beach
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Artistic teen's diary reveals bumpy path in relatable novel.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 14+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
What's the Story?
PIPER PERISH is a talented artist who can't wait to escape provincial Houston to go to art school in New York City. She and her two best friends, who are also incredibly artistic, have sworn that they're all going together. But life has other plans for Piper, Kit, and Enzo. One of them meets someone new who makes that teen want to stay in Houston. Not all of them get accepted into art school. And with her sister unexpectedly pregnant, Piper's family budget is stretched to the limit. Can Piper find a way to be happy with what life offers, or can she find the courage to go out and make things happen for herself?
Is It Any Good?
Author Kayla Cagan's debut novel is an entertaining, light read. Teens will easily identify with Piper Perish as she faces the challenges of growing up and coping with life's many curve balls. The diary-entry format keeps things breezy while capturing an authentic voice that teens will relate to.
Piper is frustratingly self-centered, and unfortunately, the story fails to deliver the satisfaction of watching her grow into someone who makes things happen for herself. She doesn't change much, making the coming-of-age part of the story its weakest. But teens who are wondering what life holds in store for them while trying to figure out love, friendship, and family will enjoy it.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about all the drinking in Piper Perish. Is it a problem for the characters? Why, or why not? Is anyone an alcoholic?
Is the amount of strong language realistic for high school kids?
Had you heard of Andy Warhol before you read this book? What do you think his art looks like? Search online or at the library to see some of his work. How does it compare with what you thought it would be like?
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : Maria Ines Gul
- Genre : Coming of Age
- Topics : Arts , Family Stories ( Siblings ) , Friendship , School ( High School )
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Chronicle Books
- Publication date : March 7, 2017
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 14 - 17
- Number of pages : 416
- Available on : Nook, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : September 30, 2025
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by
Suggest an Update
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate