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Alex, Approximately summary
Brief summary
Alex, Approximately is a heartwarming young adult novel by Jenn Bennett. It follows the story of Bailey and Alex, two online friends who unknowingly develop a romantic connection in real life. Filled with humor, romance, and a love for classic films, this book is a delightful read.
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Alex, Approximately
Summary of key ideas
Realizing the Unseen
In Alex, Approximately by Jenn Bennett, Bailey Rydell moves in with her dad in a small California town. Bailey is an introverted movie buff who is secretly in love with a boy she met online, Alex. She knows that Alex lives in the same town, but she doesn't want to meet him yet. Instead, she plans to find him on her own without revealing her identity.
She starts working at the local museum and quickly makes friends with a group of charming, eccentric characters. She also meets Porter Roth, a co-worker who is equally passionate about movies, but their relationship starts off on the wrong foot. Bailey is unaware that Porter is actually Alex, her online crush, and Porter is also unaware of Bailey's secret identity.
Unlikely Connections
As Bailey and Porter spend more time together, their relationship grows from animosity to friendship. Bailey discovers that Porter is not the indifferent guy she initially thought he was, and Porter realizes that Bailey is not just another girl. They bond over their shared love for classic movies and develop a deep connection, unaware of the parallel lives they lead as Alex and Bailey.
Meanwhile, Bailey continues her search for Alex, visiting all the places he mentioned in their online conversations. She also learns more about her estranged father and his past, deepening her understanding of her own family history. As the summer progresses, Bailey begins to question her infatuation with Alex, especially as she grows closer to Porter.
Revelations and Acceptance
The story takes a dramatic turn when Bailey's online friend, Alex, plans to meet her at the local film festival. Bailey is torn between meeting Alex and her growing feelings for Porter. As the festival progresses, Bailey's life takes an unexpected turn as she uncovers Porter's true identity as Alex. She is initially shocked and hurt by the revelation but soon realizes that Alex and Porter are the same person.
Porter explains why he kept his identity a secret, and Bailey comes to terms with the fact that her perfect image of Alex was a construct. She also realizes that she has developed real feelings for Porter, not just the idealized version of Alex. The story concludes with Bailey and Porter's relationship blossoming, grounded in honesty and acceptance.
Themes of Growth and Acceptance
In Alex, Approximately, Jenn Bennett beautifully explores themes of growth, acceptance, and the complexities of modern relationships. Bailey learns to confront her fears and insecurities, while Porter grapples with his difficult past and the consequences of his actions. The novel emphasizes the importance of being true to oneself and accepting others for who they are, flaws and all.
Ultimately, the story is a heartwarming journey of self-discovery and young love, reminding us that sometimes what we are searching for is right in front of us, waiting to be recognized.
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What is Alex, Approximately about?
Alex, Approximately by Jenn Bennett is a heartwarming young adult novel that follows the story of Bailey Rydell, a film enthusiast who moves to a new town to live with her dad. Unbeknownst to Bailey, her online friend Alex happens to live in the same town. As she navigates her new life and develops a complicated relationship with her co-worker Porter, Bailey must decide whether to reveal her true identity to Alex or risk losing him forever.
Alex, Approximately Review
Alex, Approximately by Jenn Bennett (2017) follows the story of a girl who moves to a coastal town and finds herself falling for a boy she's been chatting with online. Here's why this book is a gem:
- Delving into themes of love and identity, it offers a refreshing take on young adult romance.
- The coastal setting and cinematic storyline transport readers to a summer full of secrets and surprises.
- With its charming characters and unexpected twists, the book keeps you hooked from the first page till the very end.
Who should read Alex, Approximately?
Readers who enjoy young adult romance novels
Those who appreciate a modern take on classic romantic comedies
People who are fans of witty and relatable characters
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Book summaries like Alex, Approximately
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Alex, Approximately FAQs
What is the main message of Alex, Approximately?
The main message of Alex, Approximately revolves around love, self-discovery, and taking chances.
How long does it take to read Alex, Approximately?
Reading Alex, Approximately takes a few hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in under 15 minutes.
Is Alex, Approximately a good book? Is it worth reading?
Alex, Approximately is a captivating read with relatable characters and a heartwarming story, making it a worthwhile choice.
Who is the author of Alex, Approximately?
Jenn Bennett is the author of Alex, Approximately.
What to read after Alex, Approximately?
If you're wondering what to read next after Alex, Approximately, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- A Canticle for Leibowitz by Walter M. Miller
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- Wide Sargasso Sea by Jean Rhys, Judith L. Raiskin
- Just After Sunset by Stephen King
- Whereabouts by Jhumpa Lahiri
- Hearts in Darkness by Laura Kaye
- Every Heart a Doorway by Seanan McGuire
- The Curious Case of Benjamin Button by F. Scott Fitzgerald, Nunzio DeFilippis
- Side Jobs by Jim Butcher