Review: Wes & Liz’s College Road Trip (Better Than the Movies)
As I embarked on a mini road trip of my own, I couldn’t resist the pull of "Wes & Liz’s College Road Trip" by the incredible Lindsay Wong. The title itself whispered promises of adventure and discovery, which felt perfectly aligned with the open road stretching out before me. In an age where love stories often feel predictable, Wong crafts a narrative that feels exhilaratingly fresh, drawing the reader in with complexities that echo in your heart long after the last page is turned.
At the heart of the story is Liz Buxbaum, a vibrant character whose essence is captured beautifully in the author’s prose. “I realized that Liz was a fucking Taylor Swift song,” Wes reflects, encapsulating the sparkling spirit that defines her. The specificity in Wong’s imagery—like the vivid description of Liz’s hair as the color of late September maple leaves—makes her feel instantly relatable and real. Meanwhile, Wes, with his own quirks and undeniable charm, becomes the perfect counterpart to Liz. Their dynamic is electric, filled with authenticity and warmth, making you root for them at every turn.
The book calls forth key themes of love, self-discovery, and the messy yet beautiful realities of first relationships. It’s in the moments of vulnerability—“Did I feel huge things for Lizzie? God, yes.”—that Wong truly shines, portraying the complex emotions that come with growing up. The dialogue sparkles with humor and wit, with memorable exchanges like Liz teasing Wes about his mismatched attire (hey, “Tablecloth!”). These moments provide lightness, balancing the deeper themes woven throughout the narrative.
Wong’s writing style is both lyrical and punchy, creating a rhythm that invites readers to lose themselves in the story. From the essence of first kisses that “could kiss her for centuries and never get tired of it” to moments of playful banter about music, the narrative flows smoothly, allowing you to savor each encounter. The pacing is engaging, never dragging as it leads you through the highs and lows of Wes and Liz’s journey.
What struck me the most were the sublime moments filled with raw emotion and vivid imagery. The way Wes looks at Liz—“Not smiling was impossible when Wes looked at me like that”— captures that feeling of being seen and cherished. There’s a certain magic in the way Wong weaves music into their story, with Wes consistently asking Liz what song is playing, deepening their connection and underscoring the soundtrack of their lives.
If you’ve ever felt the thrill of young love or the pangs of growing into yourself, this book is for you. It’s perfect for anyone who enjoys a heartfelt narrative blended with humor, romance, and the essence of nostalgia. "Wes & Liz’s College Road Trip" isn’t just a read; it’s an experience that will leave you reflecting on your own significant moments along the way. For me, it’s a reminder of the joy and pain that comes with growing up, and the beauty of the songs that accompany us on our journeys.
In short, this book is as charming as a perfect summer playlist, an ode to the stories we carry in our hearts—just like a beloved Taylor Swift song. 🥰✨
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