Pilgrims Don't Wear Pink

Gr 8 Up—Quirky and naive history buff and fashionista Libby Kelting disappoints her stereotypically gay BFF Dev by turning down an offer to go with him to NYC for a "Devil Wears Prada" summer job and instead becomes a historical interpretation intern (aka glorified camp counselor) at an 18th-century seaside village in Maine. As Libby parades in designer shoes past her khaki-clad fellow interns and researchers, her sunny optimism and voluptuous figure attract the attention of the muscular crew of "Squaddies" working on Camden Harbor's restored ships. Before she knows it, her heart is taken by Shakespeare-quoting, handsome Cameron. Although Libby finds 18th-century cooking to be pretty disgusting, she truly enjoys working on colonial domestic arts with her adorable group of eight-year-old campers. In a desperate attempt to get away from her toxic roommate, Libby offers to bunk with geeky rookie newspaper reporter Garrett, which represents the only majorly contrived and absurdly unlikely note in this otherwise charming and clever debut novel. Though there is a mature scene in which underage drinking occurs at a beach party, Pilgrims will be enjoyed by fans of romantic comedies; it's as sweet as a piece of seaside taffy but with the earnest message that true love is deeper than a pretty face spouting sonnets.—Susan Riley, Mamaroneck Public Library, NY