Hearts Overboard

Gr 8 Up–This gentle book is a good fit for readers who like to know what they’re getting, much like its protagonist. Savannah is content with her predictable high school life. She has routines, STEM clubs, and a reliable boyfriend, Caleb. Her only complaint is the constant competition from the equally smart and STEM-centric Tanner. As the school year ends, Caleb breaks up with her because of her unwillingness to try new things. As if that’s not bad enough, her mom’s job sends the family on an Alaskan cruise with Tanner and his family, since their moms are work friends. Interacting with Tanner turns out to be better than expected. They even strike a deal that she’ll help him declare a college major and he’ll help her create an adventurous social media presence to win back Caleb. With all costs covered, the two teens sign up for photogenic shore excursions and end up broadening their horizons and falling for each other in the process. There are no surprises here, and readers will know exactly how this plot ends, but that’s okay. Characters are likable and consistent. Language is bright and breezy with clever STEM references. The descriptions of Alaska tourist culture are accurate and detailed.