『The upside of unrequited』要約

"The Upside of Unrequited" by Becky Albertalli is a contemporary young adult novel that delves into the complexities of unrequited love and the intricacies of adolescent relationships. Set in the suburbs of Maryland, the story follows Molly Peskin-Suso, a witty and relatable teenager who struggles with her feelings of insecurity regarding romance and her body image. Despite her tendency to develop crushes—she has 26 unrequited ones—Molly remains hesitant and fearful about pursuing relationships, especially after witnessing the blossoming romance of her twin sister, Cassie. The narrative is structured around Molly's experiences during her junior year of high school, where she grapples with her romantic feelings amidst pressures from friends and family. One of the distinctive frameworks of the novel is the exploration of identity through the lens of infatuation and familial bonds, highlighting how Molly's Jewish heritage and her mother’s same-sex marriage play vital roles in her understanding of love and relationships. The book also features well-crafted secondary characters, including Molly's supportive yet sometimes overbearing family, especially her sister, who serves as both a motivator and foil to her insecurities. Albertalli employs witty and candid dialogue, illustrating Molly's humorous outlook while expertly conveying the tumultuous emotions often associated with teenage love. As Molly navigates social dynamics and her own self-worth, she engages in an emotional journey that prompts readers to reflect on the nature of love and acceptance. Central to the narrative is the underlying message that while unrequited love can be painful, it can also lead to unexpected growth and self-discovery, marking "The Upside of Unrequited" as a poignant exploration of youthful longing and identity.