Common Sense Media Review
By Sage Moreaux
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Hilarious and romantic, if predictable, teenage love story.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 14+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
What's the Story?
In THE DO-OVER, 16-year-old Emilie is ready for the best Valentine's Day of her life. She's made a to-do list, picked out a cute outfit, and has the perfect gift for her boyfriend Josh. But when her plans go horribly awry, Emilie can't wait for the ill-fated day to end. She falls asleep on her grandmother's couch, only to wake up in her own bed the next morning -- and it's once again February 14th. Armed with her trusty planner, Emilie is determined to find a way out of the twisted time loop before she's stuck re-living Valentine's Day forever.
Is It Any Good?
Sweet and romantic, this Groundhog's Day meets Ferris Bueller's Day Off mash up is a fun young adult read. While the plot isn't the most original, the characters and dialogue in The Do-Over read as both realistic and engaging. Pop culture references are peppered throughout the story, including a bevy of Taylor Swift lyrics -- sure to delight fans of the singer. And, while the romance is charming, protagonist Emilie's journey towards confidence and self-assurance adds a deeper layer to an otherwise light read. Author Lynn Painter helpfully included a playlist at the back of the book.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the idea of fate versus free will in The Do-Over. How does Emilie's understanding of these concepts change over the course of the novel?
Emilie is determined to complete every item on her to-do list. How does her perseverance serve her as the story progresses?
What do you think about the commercialization of Valentine's Day?
Book Details
- Author :
- Genre : Romance
- Topics : Fantasy ( Magic ) , Friendship , School ( High School )
- Character Strengths : Courage , Empathy , Perseverance
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
- Publication date : November 15, 2022
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 14 - 18
- Number of pages : 304
- Available on : Paperback, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : April 7, 2026
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