Review: Love and Other Subjects by Kathleen Shoop

Love and Other Subjects 

by Kathleen Shoop

Publisher: Oakglen Press

Pages: 256 

Format: eARC 

Buy the Book: Amazon 

Goodreads:  In Love and Other Subjects Carolyn Jenkins strives for two things—to be the greatest teacher ever and to find true love. She’s as skilled at both as an infant chowing down with a fork. Carolyn’s suburban upbringing and genuine compassion for people who don’t fit effortlessly into society are no match for weapon-wielding, struggling students, drug-using colleagues, and a wicked principal. 

Meanwhile, her budding relationship with a mystery man is thwarted by his gaggle of eccentric sisters. Carolyn depends on her friends to get her through the hard times, but with poverty-stricken children at her feet and a wealthy man at her side, she must define who she is. The reality of life after college can be daunting—the road to full-fledged adulthood is long and unscripted. Can Carolyn take control and craft the life she’s always wanted?


Kritters Thoughts:  Carolyn Jenkins is a young woman who has decided to take a risk and become a teacher at a high risk high school and with it comes fifth and sixth graders who are well behind in the learning curve.  At the same time she is going through a few relationship changes both with friends and men where she will have to make some definite decisions.

I absolutely adored the inner viewpoint of a high school that is having some issues and a first year teacher trying to find alternative ways to get these children to learn.  I have an utmost respect for teachers and after reading this book realized I don't read a ton of fiction that centers around teaching in general.  The students felt real and the small glimpses of their home lives was fantastic, I definitely enjoyed this part of the book which was the biggest bulk.  

My one point that kept me from absolutely loving it was the relationship with Money/Jeep.  It was very high and low for me and just didn't feel complete.  Without spoiling the ending, I would have added more to the end to their relationship.  

A great look into the teaching world, but maybe with a little addition at the end I would have loved it even more!
Rating: definitely a good read, but can't read two in a row

Ebook 2013 Challenge: 49 out of 50

Disclosure of Material Connection:  I received one copy of this book free of charge from BookSparks PR.  I was not required to write a positive review in exchange for receipt of the book; rather, the opinions expressed in this review are my own.