Better Than the Movies
Book • 2021
Perfect for fans of Kasie West and Jenn Bennett, this “sweet and funny” (Kerry Winfrey, author of Waiting for Tom Hanks) teen rom-com follows a hopelessly romantic teen girl and her cute yet obnoxious neighbor as they scheme to get her noticed by her untouchable crush.
Perpetual daydreamer Liz Buxbaum gave her heart to Michael a long time ago. But her cool, aloof forever crush never really saw her before he moved away. Now that he’s back in town, Liz will do whatever it takes to get on his radar—and maybe snag him as a prom date—even befriend Wes Bennet.
The annoyingly attractive next-door neighbor might seem like a prime candidate for romantic comedy fantasies, but Wes has only been a pain in Liz’s butt since they were kids. Pranks involving frogs and decapitated lawn gnomes do not a potential boyfriend make. Yet, somehow, Wes and Michael are hitting it off, which means Wes is Liz’s in.
But as Liz and Wes scheme to get Liz noticed by Michael so she can have her magical prom moment, she’s shocked to discover that she likes being around Wes. And as they continue to grow closer, she must reexamine everything she thought she knew about love—and rethink her own ideas of what Happily Ever After should look like.
Better Than the Movies
Book • 2021
Perfect for fans of Kasie West and Jenn Bennett, this “sweet and funny” (Kerry Winfrey, author of Waiting for Tom Hanks) teen rom-com follows a hopelessly romantic teen girl and her cute yet obnoxious neighbor as they scheme to get her noticed by her untouchable crush.
Perpetual daydreamer Liz Buxbaum gave her heart to Michael a long time ago. But her cool, aloof forever crush never really saw her before he moved away. Now that he’s back in town, Liz will do whatever it takes to get on his radar—and maybe snag him as a prom date—even befriend Wes Bennet.
The annoyingly attractive next-door neighbor might seem like a prime candidate for romantic comedy fantasies, but Wes has only been a pain in Liz’s butt since they were kids. Pranks involving frogs and decapitated lawn gnomes do not a potential boyfriend make. Yet, somehow, Wes and Michael are hitting it off, which means Wes is Liz’s in.
But as Liz and Wes scheme to get Liz noticed by Michael so she can have her magical prom moment, she’s shocked to discover that she likes being around Wes. And as they continue to grow closer, she must reexamine everything she thought she knew about love—and rethink her own ideas of what Happily Ever After should look like.
Suggested Age
Every child is different — this is guidance, not a rule.
The themes of romantic relationships, complex emotions, and typical teen social dynamics are most appropriate for audiences who can navigate these concepts. The focus on navigating crushes and changing feelings aligns with early adolescent developmental stages.
Content Safety Breakdown
Detailed breakdown of potentially concerning content
Sex & Nudity
This movie focuses on teen romance and includes kissing and mild romantic tension. There are no explicit scenes or nudity, but the romantic plotline is central to the story.
Violence & Gore
the available information mentions pranks involving frogs and lawn gnomes, suggesting very mild, non-graphic, and potentially humorous violence. There is no indication of any serious harm or gore.
Profanity
Based on typical teen rom-com content and the absence of specific warnings, profanity is expected to be very mild and infrequent, likely limited to occasional use of words like 'd*mn' or 'h*ll' in casual conversation.
Alcohol, Drugs & Smoking
There is no mention of alcohol, drugs, or smoking in the available information, suggesting these elements are absent from the film.
Frightening Scenes
the available information emphasizes a sweet and funny teen rom-com with no elements that suggest scary, intense, or disturbing scenes.
Key Insights
Quick summary and important considerations
This is a story about a girl who has a big crush on a boy and tries to get his attention with help from her annoying neighbor. Along the way, she learns that sometimes the person who seems like trouble might be the one who truly understands her.
Detailed Analysis
In-depth insights for parents and educators
What Parents Need to Know
Features a typical teen romantic comedy plot with a focus on crushes and dating. Some mild pranks are mentioned from childhood, but no current violence is indicated.
What Kids Can Learn
Develops critical thinking about romantic ideals and encourages appreciation for unexpected friendships. It provides lessons on looking beyond initial perceptions of others.
Key Topics Discussed
Why Parents Might Like It
Offers a lighthearted and sweet romantic story with a positive message about recognizing true compatibility, reminiscent of classic rom-com tropes.
Positives & Learning
What makes this content valuable for children
Positive Messages
The narrative encourages self-discovery and valuing authentic connection over idealized fantasies. It highlights the importance of re-evaluating personal desires when presented with unexpected but meaningful relationships.
Positive Role Models
Liz demonstrates resilience in pursuing her goals and learning to appreciate qualities beyond initial infatuation. Wes offers a relatable example of evolving from antagonism to genuine care and support.
Diverse Representations
No diverse representations indicated in available information.
Educational Value
Promotes understanding of social-emotional learning, including navigating complex feelings, developing empathy, and discerning genuine connection from superficial attraction.
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