All I Know Now Review

All I Know Now by Carrie Hope Fletcher (338 pages)
My Rating: 4.5 Stars
Date Read: 18 June 2016

Synopsis:

Heartfelt advice for teens from Carrie Hope Fletcher—star of stage and computer screen, and honorary big sister to thousands of “Hopefuls”

The only thing bigger than Carrie Hope Fletcher’s hair is her heart. Eternally upbeat, this 22-year-old dynamo has sung her way to fame, both as Éponine in the London cast of Les Mis, and on her wildly popular YouTube channel, It’s Way Past My Bedtime. But here’s her not-so-secret: This rising star was once a high school misfit.

Carrie’s youthful fans come to YouTube to hear her talk music, books, and whatever comes to mind! But when they write to her, they want advice most of all. In All I Know Now, Carrie tackles every tough topic, from how to apologize (“Don’t make excuses but do explain.”) to how to handle bullies (“Punch them in the face. Kidding! Kidding!”).

Carrie grew up just one step ahead of her teen and tween fans. She can remember her own awkward phase (all too well!), so she never lectures her readers; she confides in them. Thanks to Carrie’s personal touch—plus 21 of her own illustrations—this generous guide to growing up is as one-of-a-kind as its author!

My Review:

I absolutely loved this book. If you have ever struggled with the words on how to explain the advice you want to give or would have liked to have had as a younger person, give this book a read.

Carrie does a marvelous job getting across her message of hope and kindness, while keeping her advice genuine. It does not come across as a complete guidebook on how to live your life, but it can act as a helping hand when you are struggling.

There were so many sections in this book that I would have loved to have read as a younger teen. Not only does she make things relatable by having anecdotes of her own life, she also keeps the reader engaged by reminding them that they are not alone. No matter how alone you feel, there is someone who cares about you.

I loved how Carrie takes on the role of the honorary big sister. She keeps a line of communication open to those who need it, no matter the circumstances. It is refreshing to see someone who genuinely cares about helping others.

I highly recommend this book to everyone, not just teenage girls. I was able to relate much of this stuff to my life right now and I am no longer a teen!

It was an excellent read and I will be coming back to it whenever I need some reassurance.