Something in Between

Book review by Andrea Beach, Common Sense Media
Something in Between Poster Image

Common Sense says

age 13+

Teen romance inspires empathy for immigrants.

Melissa de la Cruz Romance 2016
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Parents say

age 14+

Based on 1 review

Kids say

age 12+

Based on 5 reviews

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A Lot or a Little?

The parents' guide to what's in this book.

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What Parents Need to Know

Parents need to know that Something in Between is a teen romance by veteran author Melissa de la Cruz. Sexy stuff is fairly light, with some passionate kissing briefly described and mention of making out. There are a lot of positive role models for academic and athletic achievement, pushing yourself, and working hard. The story encourages empathy for undocumented immigrants, and teens will learn a lot about what people go through in pursuit of the American dream. They'll also gain a lot of insight into Filipino culture.

Community Reviews

Ally K.
Ally K. Adult
August 9, 2018
age 14+

Very entertaining!

I definitely enjoyed reading this! As someone who has been an American citizen since birth, it was very interesting to see someone else’s view of America. I enjoyed reading about the growth and development of Jasmine’s relationship. Some may say that it was too much of an on and off, back and forth, sort of relationship, but I think that it was just the right amount cheesiness. I don’t think that this book will change any teen’s political beliefs on illegal immigration, it simply gives another point of view. The intention of this book was simply to tell an inspirational story about a young girl who persevered through struggle with bravery and courage. Overall, it was very entertaining and enjoyable. Definitely recommend to anyone who enjoys a fun, yet engaging and moving, story.

This title has:

Educational value
Great messages
Great role models
See all 1 parent review

What's the Story?

In SOMETHING IN BETWEEN, all the years of hard work are about to pay off for high school senior Jasmine de los Santos. Her top grades should get her major scholarships to the country's top universities, and as captain of the cheerleading team she's determined to win the national championship this year. What's more, it turns out that cute guy who asked for her phone number is the son of a prominent congressman. But Jasmine's world crumbles when she learns that her parents never got green cards for the family after their work visas expired and that they've been in the United States illegally for years. Goodbye, scholarships. Goodbye, future. Goodbye, boyfriend. Except Jasmine's never been one to just give up, and she's determined to find a way to make her dreams come true after all.

Is It Any Good?

Veteran author Melissa de la Cruz gives us an engaging twist on the standard teen romance formula of young lovers from vastly different backgrounds fighting for a future together. Romance fans will be more than happy with the swoon-worthy Royce and hardworking, high-achieving Jasmine. But they'll also learn a lot about what it's like to be an undocumented immigrant and about the real effects America's laws and policies have on people's lives.

Something in Between blasts a number of stereotypes and provides refreshing insight into Filipino culture. Romance fans are unlikely to notice or mind some of the hokey dialogue and predictable plot twists, and they'll get a lot of food for thought, too.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about how Something in Between portrays undocumented immigrants. Did anything surprise you about Jasmine and her family? Does their situation seem realistic?

  • Did you read the notes at the end? What do you think of the Dream Act and the DACA policy? If you knew about them before, did the book change your mind about anything?

  • Have you read any other books by Melissa de la Cruz? How does this one compare? How does it compare to your favorite romances?

Book Details

Our Editors Recommend

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