4.5 stars...possibly 4.75

I really loved this book. I've read quite a few contemporary YA books recently that were simply not good books. The writing, the characters, the plots...all lackluster. I am so happy I picked this book up today. I actually purchased this book some months back when I saw it at a used book store, but didn't want to pick it up until summer. Now I wish I'd read it then.

Things I liked:

1. The characters. I really enjoyed all of the characters in this book. Emily was relatable in the way she wants to be a part of the world around her, but is shy and somewhat socially awkward. I liked her arc. It felt organic and not forced as she grew in confidence. Frank was great as well. Fun and friendly and supportive. Dawn and Collins were well-written also, though I wish we'd seen a bit more of their interactions. I even liked Sloane, for the most part. I see a lot of reviews saying that she's a shitty friend for not telling Emily that she's leaving town, and I agree that the reasoning behind it is stretching believability a bit, but I don't necessarily believe that one poor decision (or even a couple) makes her a shitty friend. It seems obvious throughout the book that Sloane really cares about Emily.
I even thought Gideon was interesting and wouldn't mind reading more about that character. It doesn't seem like he's a bad guy...he just has poor taste in best friends.

2. The romance. I love how low-key the relationship between Emily and Frank begins. I have read so many freaking stupid insta-love garbage stories recently where you never see them have any real conversations. This book started out with them actually talking about their interests and getting know each other. They become friends, and stay friends for 98% of the book. True, their affection grows throughout, but it's actually based on them getting to know each other...imagine that!

3. The list. I love reading books with lists. Kind of random, but there it is.

4.The writing. I haven't read any other Morgan Matson books, although I do have a couple more on my TBR shelf. I really like the way she crafted this story. There were some flashbacks that inform the audience of how different items make their way to the checklist, but it doesn't feel expositional. Actually, as I was reading this book I was picturing what it would look like as a movie.

5. The music talks!! I loved all of their discussions about music and mixes, especially the Beatles!! I also liked all of the mix lists...I have several new songs in my library thanks to this book.

Things I didn't like:
1. Ummm...I wish there had been resolution to Dawn and Emily's argument. But really...that's getting nitpicky. In my mind, Emily goes back to Dawn and they hug it out.