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Just Pru
WINNER 2015 National Indie Excellence Awards-- Chick Lit
WINNER 2015 National Indie Excellence Awards -- Contemporary Fiction
WINNER 2016 Next Generation Indie Book Awards -- General Fiction (Under 80,000 words)
FINALIST 2016 Next Generation Indie Book Awards-- Humor/ Comedy
FINALIST 2016 Next Generation Indie Book Awards-- Ebook Fiction
“There are so many ways I loved this book… Just Pru is a must read.” Deluged with Books
“I laughed so hard…. I think every twenty-something girl should read this.” Book Groupies
“From the very first page, Just Pru ….completely pulled me in…. I know I’ll be thinking of it for a long, long time.” Maureen’s Book Notes
"You need to read this. Your girlfriends need to read this. Your book club needs to read this. Just read it!” Brooke Blogs
“I fell in love with this gem of a contemporary novel.” Whimsical Nature
“…A wonderfully told and humorous coming of age story with characters you can’t help but fall in love with.” Gin’s Book Notes
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"My mother once joked that my dad had wanted to name me Obedience. As if Prudence wasn't bad enough. I was not a Prudence and I never would be."
When twenty-five-year-old Pru Anderson—braless, pajama-clad, and clutching her cat, Chuck—is rescued from her burning Los Angeles apartment, the thing that scares her most is meeting the neighbors. New people make her hide in the bathroom, counting by sevens, but when her home is destroyed, she must turn strangers into friends … or crawl back to the controlling parents she only recently escaped.
What would her idol, Pepper Hathaway, do? That’s a no brainer: the detective-slash-supermodel heroine from Pru's favorite TV series would take no prisoners while looking fierce in a tankini and stilettos. So when the chance comes to live with her upstairs neighbor, Ellen, a playwright, Pru goes for it.
Thus begin the adventures of Pru, who's never had a job, a friend, or a first kiss. Swept into Ellen's whirlwind life, Pru begins to build her own, as director's assistant for a new play, muse to brooding actor Blake, and possible love interest to adorably neurotic neighbor, Adam.
Only one thing can derail Pru's exhilarating ride. Well, actually, it's two things—and they're in a car headed straight for LA to torpedo her life. When the past that nearly destroyed her comes calling, who will she be: a Prudence or a Pepper?
##
More Praise for Just Pru
“….a laugh out loud, heartwarming story….. It will be hard to forget Pru after reading this book…. " The Self-Publishing Review
“Pru is hilarious…. Totally a perfect story IMO. How often does that happen? Like never.” Candaces Book Blog
“I adored Just Pru. I loved that Pfeffer took a character who was a little unconventional and gave her a voice.” One Page at a Time
“You want a happy, funny, tragicomedy of errors with a cast of delightful neurotics? Read Just Pru.” Literary Homebody
“Hilarious! I love a book I can pick up and literally find myself laughing all the way through.” Fire and Ice Reads
“Pru is on a journey to discover her true self…The honest, self-revelatory voice author Anne Pfeffer has created for Pru is absolutely delightful.” Pen In Her Hand
“A cute, funny, poignant story….Readers will find themselves rooting for Pru to find happiness on her own terms.” Fan Girls Read it First
“This is not just another book…. I recommend it to anyone… who wants to truly experience life through someone else’s eyes ….” Crazy For YA
“I loved this story from start to finish…. I loved its message and what it has to offer readers. Empowerment. Independence.” The Nerd Herd Reads
“This book was so much fun to read….It deserves to be on a bestseller list.” J. R.’s Book Reviews
“Pru is the world’s most lovable heroine…. Put this terrific book at the top of your reading list!” hollyb
“…a story that's offbeat but not implausible, sweet but not saccharine, and poignant, but never (thank god) sentimental….” Susan Myers
“What a great read! It has humor, … drama, …romance...and good old-fashioned dysfunction.” Teresa Kander
WINNER 2015 National Indie Excellence Awards -- Contemporary Fiction
WINNER 2016 Next Generation Indie Book Awards -- General Fiction (Under 80,000 words)
FINALIST 2016 Next Generation Indie Book Awards-- Humor/ Comedy
FINALIST 2016 Next Generation Indie Book Awards-- Ebook Fiction
“There are so many ways I loved this book… Just Pru is a must read.” Deluged with Books
“I laughed so hard…. I think every twenty-something girl should read this.” Book Groupies
“From the very first page, Just Pru ….completely pulled me in…. I know I’ll be thinking of it for a long, long time.” Maureen’s Book Notes
"You need to read this. Your girlfriends need to read this. Your book club needs to read this. Just read it!” Brooke Blogs
“I fell in love with this gem of a contemporary novel.” Whimsical Nature
“…A wonderfully told and humorous coming of age story with characters you can’t help but fall in love with.” Gin’s Book Notes
##
"My mother once joked that my dad had wanted to name me Obedience. As if Prudence wasn't bad enough. I was not a Prudence and I never would be."
When twenty-five-year-old Pru Anderson—braless, pajama-clad, and clutching her cat, Chuck—is rescued from her burning Los Angeles apartment, the thing that scares her most is meeting the neighbors. New people make her hide in the bathroom, counting by sevens, but when her home is destroyed, she must turn strangers into friends … or crawl back to the controlling parents she only recently escaped.
What would her idol, Pepper Hathaway, do? That’s a no brainer: the detective-slash-supermodel heroine from Pru's favorite TV series would take no prisoners while looking fierce in a tankini and stilettos. So when the chance comes to live with her upstairs neighbor, Ellen, a playwright, Pru goes for it.
Thus begin the adventures of Pru, who's never had a job, a friend, or a first kiss. Swept into Ellen's whirlwind life, Pru begins to build her own, as director's assistant for a new play, muse to brooding actor Blake, and possible love interest to adorably neurotic neighbor, Adam.
Only one thing can derail Pru's exhilarating ride. Well, actually, it's two things—and they're in a car headed straight for LA to torpedo her life. When the past that nearly destroyed her comes calling, who will she be: a Prudence or a Pepper?
##
More Praise for Just Pru
“….a laugh out loud, heartwarming story….. It will be hard to forget Pru after reading this book…. " The Self-Publishing Review
“Pru is hilarious…. Totally a perfect story IMO. How often does that happen? Like never.” Candaces Book Blog
“I adored Just Pru. I loved that Pfeffer took a character who was a little unconventional and gave her a voice.” One Page at a Time
“You want a happy, funny, tragicomedy of errors with a cast of delightful neurotics? Read Just Pru.” Literary Homebody
“Hilarious! I love a book I can pick up and literally find myself laughing all the way through.” Fire and Ice Reads
“Pru is on a journey to discover her true self…The honest, self-revelatory voice author Anne Pfeffer has created for Pru is absolutely delightful.” Pen In Her Hand
“A cute, funny, poignant story….Readers will find themselves rooting for Pru to find happiness on her own terms.” Fan Girls Read it First
“This is not just another book…. I recommend it to anyone… who wants to truly experience life through someone else’s eyes ….” Crazy For YA
“I loved this story from start to finish…. I loved its message and what it has to offer readers. Empowerment. Independence.” The Nerd Herd Reads
“This book was so much fun to read….It deserves to be on a bestseller list.” J. R.’s Book Reviews
“Pru is the world’s most lovable heroine…. Put this terrific book at the top of your reading list!” hollyb
“…a story that's offbeat but not implausible, sweet but not saccharine, and poignant, but never (thank god) sentimental….” Susan Myers
“What a great read! It has humor, … drama, …romance...and good old-fashioned dysfunction.” Teresa Kander
232 pages, Paperback
First published March 2, 2015
About the author
Anne Pfeffer
6 books359 followersAward-winning novelist Anne Pfeffer grew up in Phoenix, Arizona reading prodigiously, riding horses, and avoiding rattlesnakes and scorpions. After living in Chicago and New York, she escaped back to the land of sunshine in Los Angeles. She has worked in banking and as a pro bono attorney, representing abandoned children in adoption and guardianship proceedings. Anne has a daughter living in New York and is the author of four books in the YA/New Adult genres.
Learn more at AnnePfefferBooks.com.
Learn more at AnnePfefferBooks.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
March 15, 2015
Tiffany's Review:
I found this book very inspiring! Pru is an amazing character! Pru is a 25 year old girl living on her own for the first time in her life. What makes this story different from anything I have ever read?
Pru is not your average girl, she struggles with anxiety and depression. Her parents had tired to help her but really they had been holding her back her entire life. They sheltered her and didn't let her live her life. Pru finds herself with no other options but to branch out and make friends when her apartment complex has a fire and her apartment is ruined. Pru moves in with another girl in the building and beings to flourish!!!
I loved being able to read about her fears and the way her over came them. Great read! I give it 4 stars.
http://curling-up-with-a-good-book.bl...
I found this book very inspiring! Pru is an amazing character! Pru is a 25 year old girl living on her own for the first time in her life. What makes this story different from anything I have ever read?
Pru is not your average girl, she struggles with anxiety and depression. Her parents had tired to help her but really they had been holding her back her entire life. They sheltered her and didn't let her live her life. Pru finds herself with no other options but to branch out and make friends when her apartment complex has a fire and her apartment is ruined. Pru moves in with another girl in the building and beings to flourish!!!
I loved being able to read about her fears and the way her over came them. Great read! I give it 4 stars.
http://curling-up-with-a-good-book.bl...
December 27, 2014
**I was gifted this neurotic love story by the author in exchange for my honest (and rave) review.**
5.0 stars
No need for rounding!! This was a five-star read all the way. Just Pru by Anne Pfeffer is the story of Prudence who's just lost nearly everything she owns in a fire; including her invisibility. With only her cat and a flannel nightgown to her name, she's invited into the apartment of Ellen Price, a budding playwright with a production close to completion. She's flung into the mix of Ellen's life with hot neighbor guy Adam and the beautiful cast of the play.
Everything she knows about being in society she learned from made-for-TV movies, having been sheltered by controlling parents. As Pru muddles through her new life, she steps on toes, commits all sorts of snafus, and struggles with her very crippling anxieties. And I loved her, start to finish.
This book is both silly and serious, but what I loved the most is that Pru is not your typical heroin who can do anything with a bat of her lashes. And Adam, her love interest, is equally neurotic. Neither of them is perfect, which makes this book so adorably perfect. And the embarrassing scenes? You know, when you read them in books, sometimes it's a struggle to not cringe and give up? None of that here. And the way things wind up are the things HEA-lover's dreams are made of.
Now, I'm struggling with this part of the review. The 'I-didn't-like-this-about-the-book' part. I ate the whole thing up, start to finish. Voraciously. Like a girl who's been book-deprived in a bookless desert. This was my water. My oasis; the fountain.
But for those who may say there's no perfect book, I will give those that which they crave. Sooo, if you don't absolutely enjoy ends tied up, people solving problems together, or MCs managing to cope partway through... Then maybe this book didn't have enough struggle or enough angst to get you cowering under the covers at the starkness of humanity.
You want a happy, funny, tragicomedy of errors with a cast of delightful neurotics? Read Just Pru.
5.0 stars
No need for rounding!! This was a five-star read all the way. Just Pru by Anne Pfeffer is the story of Prudence who's just lost nearly everything she owns in a fire; including her invisibility. With only her cat and a flannel nightgown to her name, she's invited into the apartment of Ellen Price, a budding playwright with a production close to completion. She's flung into the mix of Ellen's life with hot neighbor guy Adam and the beautiful cast of the play.
Everything she knows about being in society she learned from made-for-TV movies, having been sheltered by controlling parents. As Pru muddles through her new life, she steps on toes, commits all sorts of snafus, and struggles with her very crippling anxieties. And I loved her, start to finish.
This book is both silly and serious, but what I loved the most is that Pru is not your typical heroin who can do anything with a bat of her lashes. And Adam, her love interest, is equally neurotic. Neither of them is perfect, which makes this book so adorably perfect. And the embarrassing scenes? You know, when you read them in books, sometimes it's a struggle to not cringe and give up? None of that here. And the way things wind up are the things HEA-lover's dreams are made of.
Now, I'm struggling with this part of the review. The 'I-didn't-like-this-about-the-book' part. I ate the whole thing up, start to finish. Voraciously. Like a girl who's been book-deprived in a bookless desert. This was my water. My oasis; the fountain.
But for those who may say there's no perfect book, I will give those that which they crave. Sooo, if you don't absolutely enjoy ends tied up, people solving problems together, or MCs managing to cope partway through... Then maybe this book didn't have enough struggle or enough angst to get you cowering under the covers at the starkness of humanity.
You want a happy, funny, tragicomedy of errors with a cast of delightful neurotics? Read Just Pru.
February 16, 2015
Just Pru by Anne Pfeffer is a coming of age story about twenty-five year old Prudence “Pru” Anderson. Pru is a character that you cheer for, cry with, and want to give a big hug to. You can’t wait for her to grow, succeed, and realize her own beauty. She’s someone that you see bits of yourself in. She struggles with her weight, self-confidence, anxiety, and depression but she is also smart, strong, and funny.
Just Pru is about—life, fate, bad luck, whatever you want to call it—stepping in and forcing the character to change. It’s a fun, uplifting story, which celebrates becoming more than you thought you could be.
I loved the characters, the writing style, and the outcome of the story.
I definitely recommend Just Pru for readers that enjoy a wonderfully told and humorous coming of age story with characters that you can’t help but fall in love with.
Recommended for mature YA 16/17+, NA readers, and Adult readers.
November 26, 2014
Just Pru by Anne Pfeffer is a book that totally surprised me. I started reading it before there was even a blurb and honestly had no idea what it was about. I had read Anne Pfeffer before and trusted it would be a good story but I didn't know what exactly I was getting. But the moment I started reading I was hooked. I could not put the book down and was sucked into Pru's life immediately.
Pru was raised by control freak parents who controlled her every move. She's now an adult and finally on her own but isn't doing so well. She has some issues and it makes it hard for her to do some of the things that are easy for most of us. She has trouble with new people, which is everyone around her since she moved to L.A. where she knew no one. She freaks out when she drives because she's so nervous and she's out of work so she's just sure her parents are right and she's a failure and will have to go back to them. But when her apartment building catches fire everything changes for Pru. She's suddenly in a situation where she has to meet people just to survive. She starts staying with another girl and suddenly she's meeting people everywhere. While she still struggles with some things she's finally starting to realize what she's good at and that she can survive without her parents.
It was amazing to watch Pru grow as she makes friends, finally starts to feel needed and appreciated in a sort-of-job that she's actually good at and she meets a boy that could possibly become more than just a friend. Pru is hilarious though she's not usually meaning to be. She has this inner voice that had me bursting out laughing many times. Especially one time when she was driving, needed gas and couldn't get into the proper lane because she was going WAY too slow so she got out of the car and forced the other lane of traffic to stop so she could get over and turn into the gas station. That was a horrifying situation I'm sure but the way she tells it just had me laughing so hard. By the end Pru is has to decide whether to stand up to her parents to have the life she wants or if she is going to submit to them and live the life they force on her. I think you can guess how it goes but watching Pru grow into this AMAZING person was a pure joy.
All the secondary characters were so ALIVE. I mean their personalities were so strong and so important. We have Ellen who is a probably the best person that could have possibly come into her life. She's so full of life but has zero judgement and is totally a take charge person without being bossy. We have Adam, the neurotic OCD neighbor that Pru quickly comes close to (seriously these two are QUITE the pair with their neurotic behaviors) and we have Blake who is this crazy actor who decides Pru is his muse and requires her around him at all times when rehearsing. And of course we have Pru's awful parents who do a very good job at being the villains. They seriously made me ANGRY.
And it's perfect. Totally a perfect story IMO. How often does that happen? Like never. I'm SO excited to re-read this book. Possibly every year. HIGHLY (do you get that yet?) recommend!
PS. This is about an adult character but it's totally (well, mostly IMO) good for YA readers. Let's say mature YA readers just to be safe. I've read YA with more mature content though. And because Pru is newly on her own it could fit NA as well.
Pru was raised by control freak parents who controlled her every move. She's now an adult and finally on her own but isn't doing so well. She has some issues and it makes it hard for her to do some of the things that are easy for most of us. She has trouble with new people, which is everyone around her since she moved to L.A. where she knew no one. She freaks out when she drives because she's so nervous and she's out of work so she's just sure her parents are right and she's a failure and will have to go back to them. But when her apartment building catches fire everything changes for Pru. She's suddenly in a situation where she has to meet people just to survive. She starts staying with another girl and suddenly she's meeting people everywhere. While she still struggles with some things she's finally starting to realize what she's good at and that she can survive without her parents.
It was amazing to watch Pru grow as she makes friends, finally starts to feel needed and appreciated in a sort-of-job that she's actually good at and she meets a boy that could possibly become more than just a friend. Pru is hilarious though she's not usually meaning to be. She has this inner voice that had me bursting out laughing many times. Especially one time when she was driving, needed gas and couldn't get into the proper lane because she was going WAY too slow so she got out of the car and forced the other lane of traffic to stop so she could get over and turn into the gas station. That was a horrifying situation I'm sure but the way she tells it just had me laughing so hard. By the end Pru is has to decide whether to stand up to her parents to have the life she wants or if she is going to submit to them and live the life they force on her. I think you can guess how it goes but watching Pru grow into this AMAZING person was a pure joy.
All the secondary characters were so ALIVE. I mean their personalities were so strong and so important. We have Ellen who is a probably the best person that could have possibly come into her life. She's so full of life but has zero judgement and is totally a take charge person without being bossy. We have Adam, the neurotic OCD neighbor that Pru quickly comes close to (seriously these two are QUITE the pair with their neurotic behaviors) and we have Blake who is this crazy actor who decides Pru is his muse and requires her around him at all times when rehearsing. And of course we have Pru's awful parents who do a very good job at being the villains. They seriously made me ANGRY.
And it's perfect. Totally a perfect story IMO. How often does that happen? Like never. I'm SO excited to re-read this book. Possibly every year. HIGHLY (do you get that yet?) recommend!
PS. This is about an adult character but it's totally (well, mostly IMO) good for YA readers. Let's say mature YA readers just to be safe. I've read YA with more mature content though. And because Pru is newly on her own it could fit NA as well.
February 17, 2015
From the very first page ‘Just Pru’ was a book that completely pulled me in. In ‘Just Pru’ we meet Pru Andersen, a twenty five year old who isn’t like everyone else. Pru doesn’t talk to many people and she has these anxieties that keep her hidden from the world. So when Pru meets her neighbor Ellen and is sort of trapped into moving in with her, her life begins to change forever. Although Pru hasn’t got many life experiences, she watched a lot of television and that’s how Pru knows how some things go. With her favorite TV character Pepper Hathaway, in mind Pru slowly starts a new life.
This book was just so much fun to read. I couldn’t stop reading. Pru is this amazing girl, who has lived a very sheltered life. Her parents tried to keep her away from the real world so all she really knows are the things she saw on TV. Although I don’t really have anxiety, I felt myself connect with Pru. She doesn’t like big crowds, mean either, she doesn’t know how to respond to very outspoken people, most times I don’t either and she doesn’t really know how to make friends.
The journey Pru went through in this book was just very interesting to read and I would find myself cheering for Pru, when she made these little progresses.
Anne Pfeffer’s writing style is very easy to follow and she was able to create this amazing character, who isn’t perfect but was just very real. I also really loved the other characters in this book. Pru’s neighbor Ellen, who took care of Pru when she had no one and was this very patient and kind person. Adam, the guy next door with his own anxieties but found a way to life with them. And even Blake, this very arrogant actor who really just was a little too much at times.
Pru’s parents where very overprotective of Pru. And although I found it horrible how they stopped Pru from having a life of her own, and who down talked her every step of the way.. Anne Pfeffer was able to make me even like them a little near the end of the book. (That’s very impressive!)
‘Just Pru’ really blowed my mind. And I know for sure that I will be thinking of this book for a long, long time. This book deserves to be up on a bestseller list. It really was that good!
This book was just so much fun to read. I couldn’t stop reading. Pru is this amazing girl, who has lived a very sheltered life. Her parents tried to keep her away from the real world so all she really knows are the things she saw on TV. Although I don’t really have anxiety, I felt myself connect with Pru. She doesn’t like big crowds, mean either, she doesn’t know how to respond to very outspoken people, most times I don’t either and she doesn’t really know how to make friends.
The journey Pru went through in this book was just very interesting to read and I would find myself cheering for Pru, when she made these little progresses.
Anne Pfeffer’s writing style is very easy to follow and she was able to create this amazing character, who isn’t perfect but was just very real. I also really loved the other characters in this book. Pru’s neighbor Ellen, who took care of Pru when she had no one and was this very patient and kind person. Adam, the guy next door with his own anxieties but found a way to life with them. And even Blake, this very arrogant actor who really just was a little too much at times.
Pru’s parents where very overprotective of Pru. And although I found it horrible how they stopped Pru from having a life of her own, and who down talked her every step of the way.. Anne Pfeffer was able to make me even like them a little near the end of the book. (That’s very impressive!)
‘Just Pru’ really blowed my mind. And I know for sure that I will be thinking of this book for a long, long time. This book deserves to be up on a bestseller list. It really was that good!
August 29, 2015
Hi all! The Self-Publishing Review has given Just Pru five stars!
"Just Pru, by Anne Pfeffer, is a laugh out loud, heartwarming story ….Pfeffer does an amazing job with Pru’s character…. The supporting cast is … easy to fall in love with and to cheer for.
… It will be hard to forget Pru after reading this book… I have a feeling she’ll win over many readers." 5 Stars
The full review will post on February 16, 2015, when Just Pru becomes available for pre-order on amazon.com.
"Just Pru, by Anne Pfeffer, is a laugh out loud, heartwarming story ….Pfeffer does an amazing job with Pru’s character…. The supporting cast is … easy to fall in love with and to cheer for.
… It will be hard to forget Pru after reading this book… I have a feeling she’ll win over many readers." 5 Stars
The full review will post on February 16, 2015, when Just Pru becomes available for pre-order on amazon.com.
July 22, 2015
Ringrazio immensamente Anne Pfeffer per avermi regalato l’opportunità di leggere questo libro in anteprima, in cambio della mia onesta opinione.
Recensione anche sul mio blog:
http://pleaseanotherbook.tumblr.com/p...
“Just Pru” è l’ultimo romanzo di Anne Pfeffer che ho avuto il piacere di conoscere agli albori del mio blog e il suo è stato uno dei primi eARC che abbia ricevuto da recensire. Ne è passata di acqua sotto i ponti da allora, ma devo dire che mi ha sempre lasciato dei libri molto interessanti e anche in questo caso la storia è intrigante e divertente, piena di curiosità e sicuramente fuori dagli schemi. Pungente e dolce, ha il marchio di fabbrica della Pfeffer e mi ha convinto ancora una volta.
Quando la venticinquenne Pru Anderson – senza reggiseno, avvolta dal pigiama, mentre stringeva a se il suo gatto, Chuck – è stata salvata dal suo appartamento in fiamme a Los Angeles, la cosa che la spaventa di più è incontrare i suoi vicini. Persone sconosciute la fanno nascondere nel bagno, contare per sette, ma quando la sua casa rimane distrutta, deve trasformare degli estranei in amici… o ritornare con la coda tra le gambe dai genitori da cui è recentemente scappata. Cosa farebbe il suo idolo Pepper Hathaway? Il detective – barra – modella protagonista della serie TV preferita da Pru non si arrenderebbe mentre si mostra fiera nel suo tankini e i suoi tacchi alti. Così quando ne ha la possibilità si trasferisce dalla sua vicina del piano di sopra Ellen, una regista e scrittrice di opere teatrali. Iniziano così le avventure di Pru che non ha mai avuto un lavoro, un amico o un primo bacio. Trascinata nella vita di Ellen, Pru inizia a costruire un proprio equilibri, come assistente regista per il nuovo spettacolo di Ellen, come musa per l’attore protagonista Blake e possibilmente come interesse amoroso per l’adorabile vicino neurotico Adam. Solo una cosa può portare Pru fuori strada. Beh, veramente due cose – e sono in una automobile diretti a LA per distruggere la sua vita. Quando il passato che l’ha quasi distrutta viene a cercarla, chi sarà: una Prudence o una Pepper?
Decisamente sopra le righe, quasi al confine dell’impossibile, questo volumetto della Pfeffer ha tutti gli elementi per strappare un sorriso e imporre il lettore di fare il tifo per Pru. Decisamente dotata di una certa dose di sfiga, accompagnata costantemente dalla voce del suo analista, abituata a sentirsi dire che non è in grado di fare le cose, Pru è una persona adorabile, di quelle che non puoi ignorare, perché in fondo racchiude in se tutte le insicurezze di cui siamo affetti. Sovrappeso, insicura, si rifugia nelle soap opera e nelle serie tv che le capitano a tiro, traendone insegnamenti per la sua vita quotidiana. Educata in casa, privata dei normali rapporti sociali con gli altri, Pru è incapace di relazionarsi con il prossimo, vittima di una sequela di imbarazzanti approcci in cui appare fragile e terribilmente incerta. Ma in fondo Pru è più forte di quello che crede ma soprattutto è una persona speciale, dotata di un grosso spirito di osservazione. Pru ha sofferto, nel suo passato si annida un trauma di qualche tipo, di cui non veniamo a conoscenza, ma che resta secondario mentre la seguiamo nel suo percorso di crescita. Da un lato è tutto troppo veloce, il libro non è particolarmente lungo, dall’altro assistiamo, in diretta a tutti i dubbi e ai pensieri della protagonista. Ellen, la chioccia che la prende sotto la sua ala protettiva e che la spinge a reagire quando ha evidentemente bisogno di aiuto, mi è molto piaciuta. Ellen, infatti, è dolcemente autoritaria e non si ferma di fronte ai ripetuti crolli emotivi di Pru, senza metterle fretta la sostiene, ma soprattutto le fornisce gli strumenti per ricostruire la sua vita. D’altro canto è proprio questo ciò di cui ha bisogno Pru, un sostegno vero, qualcuno che la sproni al meglio, che non la lasci a languire in quella sedimentata parte del cervello in cui i genitori hanno impiantato il seme del dubbio. Pru può farcela con le proprie forze deve solo provarci.
Meraviglioso anche il personaggio di Adam, che non manca di essere un maniaco della pulizia, con le sue nevrosi e le sue paure, bellissimo, un self-made man, ma allo stesso tempo attento e premuroso. Non è di certo perfetto, anche lui commette degli errori, ma non si lascia intimorire dalle fisse di Pru, e anzi, anche lui è li per spronarla a non arrendersi. Non da meno anche Blake è un personaggio molto particolare, che affronta la sua carriera e lo spettacolo messo in piedi da Ellen con serietà e spensieratezza, ma mette la testa a posto solo quando Pru arriva a sorreggerlo e spronarlo. Ed è molto bello vedere come Pru terrorizzata dalle interazioni con gli altri, riesce a far ragionare il recalcitrante attore. Anche lo spettacolo di Ellen, il Prigioniero, ha un ruolo primario, un parallelismo con i fatti del libro, che fornisce diversi spunti di riflessione.
Lo stile della Pfeffer è incredibilmente semplice e abbordabile, non indugia molto in descrizioni ma arriva dritta al punto, esponendo una sensibilità rara e un’empatia con i suoi personaggi che mi ha molto colpita.
L’ambientazione, quella della città degli angeli, Los Angeles, è molto scarna e ricorrente, infatti la maggior parte dell’azione si svolge tra l’appartamento di Ellen e il teatro, ma rende bene il bisogno di Pru di staccarsi dal nido dei genitori e affrontare davvero il mondo, e come farlo se non in una grande città?
Il particolare da non dimenticare? Una scatola di cioccolatini…
Un viaggio nell’emotività di una ragazza di venticinque anni, che dopo aver vissuto per anni nella paura, si apre al mondo, affronta le sue difficoltà e ne esce vincente. A volte surreale, a volte sopra le righe, la Pfeffer regala una storia intensa e carinissima, che vi strapperà più di una risata.
Buona lettura guys!
Recensione anche sul mio blog:
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“Just Pru” è l’ultimo romanzo di Anne Pfeffer che ho avuto il piacere di conoscere agli albori del mio blog e il suo è stato uno dei primi eARC che abbia ricevuto da recensire. Ne è passata di acqua sotto i ponti da allora, ma devo dire che mi ha sempre lasciato dei libri molto interessanti e anche in questo caso la storia è intrigante e divertente, piena di curiosità e sicuramente fuori dagli schemi. Pungente e dolce, ha il marchio di fabbrica della Pfeffer e mi ha convinto ancora una volta.
Quando la venticinquenne Pru Anderson – senza reggiseno, avvolta dal pigiama, mentre stringeva a se il suo gatto, Chuck – è stata salvata dal suo appartamento in fiamme a Los Angeles, la cosa che la spaventa di più è incontrare i suoi vicini. Persone sconosciute la fanno nascondere nel bagno, contare per sette, ma quando la sua casa rimane distrutta, deve trasformare degli estranei in amici… o ritornare con la coda tra le gambe dai genitori da cui è recentemente scappata. Cosa farebbe il suo idolo Pepper Hathaway? Il detective – barra – modella protagonista della serie TV preferita da Pru non si arrenderebbe mentre si mostra fiera nel suo tankini e i suoi tacchi alti. Così quando ne ha la possibilità si trasferisce dalla sua vicina del piano di sopra Ellen, una regista e scrittrice di opere teatrali. Iniziano così le avventure di Pru che non ha mai avuto un lavoro, un amico o un primo bacio. Trascinata nella vita di Ellen, Pru inizia a costruire un proprio equilibri, come assistente regista per il nuovo spettacolo di Ellen, come musa per l’attore protagonista Blake e possibilmente come interesse amoroso per l’adorabile vicino neurotico Adam. Solo una cosa può portare Pru fuori strada. Beh, veramente due cose – e sono in una automobile diretti a LA per distruggere la sua vita. Quando il passato che l’ha quasi distrutta viene a cercarla, chi sarà: una Prudence o una Pepper?
Decisamente sopra le righe, quasi al confine dell’impossibile, questo volumetto della Pfeffer ha tutti gli elementi per strappare un sorriso e imporre il lettore di fare il tifo per Pru. Decisamente dotata di una certa dose di sfiga, accompagnata costantemente dalla voce del suo analista, abituata a sentirsi dire che non è in grado di fare le cose, Pru è una persona adorabile, di quelle che non puoi ignorare, perché in fondo racchiude in se tutte le insicurezze di cui siamo affetti. Sovrappeso, insicura, si rifugia nelle soap opera e nelle serie tv che le capitano a tiro, traendone insegnamenti per la sua vita quotidiana. Educata in casa, privata dei normali rapporti sociali con gli altri, Pru è incapace di relazionarsi con il prossimo, vittima di una sequela di imbarazzanti approcci in cui appare fragile e terribilmente incerta. Ma in fondo Pru è più forte di quello che crede ma soprattutto è una persona speciale, dotata di un grosso spirito di osservazione. Pru ha sofferto, nel suo passato si annida un trauma di qualche tipo, di cui non veniamo a conoscenza, ma che resta secondario mentre la seguiamo nel suo percorso di crescita. Da un lato è tutto troppo veloce, il libro non è particolarmente lungo, dall’altro assistiamo, in diretta a tutti i dubbi e ai pensieri della protagonista. Ellen, la chioccia che la prende sotto la sua ala protettiva e che la spinge a reagire quando ha evidentemente bisogno di aiuto, mi è molto piaciuta. Ellen, infatti, è dolcemente autoritaria e non si ferma di fronte ai ripetuti crolli emotivi di Pru, senza metterle fretta la sostiene, ma soprattutto le fornisce gli strumenti per ricostruire la sua vita. D’altro canto è proprio questo ciò di cui ha bisogno Pru, un sostegno vero, qualcuno che la sproni al meglio, che non la lasci a languire in quella sedimentata parte del cervello in cui i genitori hanno impiantato il seme del dubbio. Pru può farcela con le proprie forze deve solo provarci.
Meraviglioso anche il personaggio di Adam, che non manca di essere un maniaco della pulizia, con le sue nevrosi e le sue paure, bellissimo, un self-made man, ma allo stesso tempo attento e premuroso. Non è di certo perfetto, anche lui commette degli errori, ma non si lascia intimorire dalle fisse di Pru, e anzi, anche lui è li per spronarla a non arrendersi. Non da meno anche Blake è un personaggio molto particolare, che affronta la sua carriera e lo spettacolo messo in piedi da Ellen con serietà e spensieratezza, ma mette la testa a posto solo quando Pru arriva a sorreggerlo e spronarlo. Ed è molto bello vedere come Pru terrorizzata dalle interazioni con gli altri, riesce a far ragionare il recalcitrante attore. Anche lo spettacolo di Ellen, il Prigioniero, ha un ruolo primario, un parallelismo con i fatti del libro, che fornisce diversi spunti di riflessione.
Lo stile della Pfeffer è incredibilmente semplice e abbordabile, non indugia molto in descrizioni ma arriva dritta al punto, esponendo una sensibilità rara e un’empatia con i suoi personaggi che mi ha molto colpita.
L’ambientazione, quella della città degli angeli, Los Angeles, è molto scarna e ricorrente, infatti la maggior parte dell’azione si svolge tra l’appartamento di Ellen e il teatro, ma rende bene il bisogno di Pru di staccarsi dal nido dei genitori e affrontare davvero il mondo, e come farlo se non in una grande città?
Il particolare da non dimenticare? Una scatola di cioccolatini…
Un viaggio nell’emotività di una ragazza di venticinque anni, che dopo aver vissuto per anni nella paura, si apre al mondo, affronta le sue difficoltà e ne esce vincente. A volte surreale, a volte sopra le righe, la Pfeffer regala una storia intensa e carinissima, che vi strapperà più di una risata.
Buona lettura guys!
February 23, 2015
4.5/5 Stars
This review and many more can be found on my blog: Feed Your Fiction Addiction
Just Pru is a delightfully quirky contemporary novel with humor and heart! The book follows Pru, a twenty-five year old woman who suffers from anxiety, who sets off on her own for the first time after having been sheltered her whole life.
The synopsis describes the book well, so I’ll just straight into my review!
What I loved:
Pru.
Pru is an extremely humorous, quirky character (she had me chuckling throughout the book), but Pfeffer manages to tell her story in a way that’s also poignant and emotionally compelling. Pru has lived an extremely sheltered life. She suffers from intense anxiety and sometimes depression, and because of this, her parents have always seen her as fragile and somewhat incompetent. Or perhaps she suffers from anxiety and depression because her parents have always treated her this way – it’s hard to tell for sure – Pru’s parents are crazy enough that they would surely drive anyone to neuroses. Pru starts the book as an extremely naive character who has faced very little of the world. Her only frame of reference for what to expect is what she’s seen on TV and what she’s learned from her (now dead) therapist. During the book, we get to see Pru grow from an incredibly anxious and naive girl into a self-sufficient woman. The journey is both humorous and compelling!
Body image.
Another aspect of Pru that I loved was that she was a “real” woman – size 16 with somewhat wild curly hair. Pru learns to love herself and see that she can be attractive and sexy.
Life via TV.
One of the most humorous aspects of Pru’s character is how she sees the world through her TV shows. She has pretty much lived her life vicariously through the TV, and so she faces every obstacle with her TV heroines in mind. “What would Pepper Hathaway do?” is always the first question that comes to mind. Since Pepper is a supermodel police detective, this comparison can sometimes be hilarious (though Pepper really does kind of have it all together – and sometimes she actually ends up being a pretty good role model for Pru!). There are other shows that Pru compares her life to as well. I really loved this aspect of the book!
The secondary characters.
This is one of those books that has lots of three-dimensional secondary characters – the kinds of people who help transform Pru’s life in ways she never thought possible. First, there’s Ellen, the passionately creative playwright and director who is also caring and nurturing to everyone around her. Blake and Becca, who seem like just your typical diva stars, but who we learn as the book goes on have their own issues and motivations (Pru ends up being Blake’s muse, and he feels like he can’t perform without her – which ends up pushing Pru in quite a few ways and she learns to navigate that relationship and help Ellen with her play). Pru’s parents are the only characters who are just a little bit two-dimensional – we really mostly get to see their crazy – but by the end of the book, I was happy to see hope for Pru and her parents. Lastly, there’s Adam, Pru’s neurotic OCD love interest, who is pretty much perfect for her. I loved that the romance in this book was built up slowly and didn’t overshadow Pru’s general growth as a person – and Adam was hard not to adore!
The negatives:
Almost too naive at first?
Since Pru was so sheltered and because she suffers from extreme anxiety, she sometimes comes off as very young and extremely naive – almost like a child in certain ways. This was the point of the book, and for the most part it worked, but every once in a great while I found myself thinking, Really? Also, I personally get frustrated when extremely naive characters like this jump into sex – she basically went from her first kiss to a sexual relationship in one day. I get that the point was that she felt like she was being held back by her parents and she was ready to jump into her new found independence, but I just felt like it was kind of a rush to get to that finish line, and I would have liked to have seen her take her time with that step a little more (considering her character, I think this would have been more realistic) – but this is perhaps just a personal pet peeve. Obviously, these things didn’t ruin my overall enjoyment of the book, though!
If you’re looking for a fun and quirky contemporary with heart, I highly recommend Just Pru. This is the second book that I’ve read by Pfeffer, and I’ve found myself loving both of them! I will definitely be reading more. I give this book 4.5/5 stars.
***Disclosure: I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. No other compensation was given and all opinions are my own.***
This review and many more can be found on my blog: Feed Your Fiction Addiction
Just Pru is a delightfully quirky contemporary novel with humor and heart! The book follows Pru, a twenty-five year old woman who suffers from anxiety, who sets off on her own for the first time after having been sheltered her whole life.
The synopsis describes the book well, so I’ll just straight into my review!
What I loved:
Pru.
Pru is an extremely humorous, quirky character (she had me chuckling throughout the book), but Pfeffer manages to tell her story in a way that’s also poignant and emotionally compelling. Pru has lived an extremely sheltered life. She suffers from intense anxiety and sometimes depression, and because of this, her parents have always seen her as fragile and somewhat incompetent. Or perhaps she suffers from anxiety and depression because her parents have always treated her this way – it’s hard to tell for sure – Pru’s parents are crazy enough that they would surely drive anyone to neuroses. Pru starts the book as an extremely naive character who has faced very little of the world. Her only frame of reference for what to expect is what she’s seen on TV and what she’s learned from her (now dead) therapist. During the book, we get to see Pru grow from an incredibly anxious and naive girl into a self-sufficient woman. The journey is both humorous and compelling!
Body image.
Another aspect of Pru that I loved was that she was a “real” woman – size 16 with somewhat wild curly hair. Pru learns to love herself and see that she can be attractive and sexy.
Life via TV.
One of the most humorous aspects of Pru’s character is how she sees the world through her TV shows. She has pretty much lived her life vicariously through the TV, and so she faces every obstacle with her TV heroines in mind. “What would Pepper Hathaway do?” is always the first question that comes to mind. Since Pepper is a supermodel police detective, this comparison can sometimes be hilarious (though Pepper really does kind of have it all together – and sometimes she actually ends up being a pretty good role model for Pru!). There are other shows that Pru compares her life to as well. I really loved this aspect of the book!
The secondary characters.
This is one of those books that has lots of three-dimensional secondary characters – the kinds of people who help transform Pru’s life in ways she never thought possible. First, there’s Ellen, the passionately creative playwright and director who is also caring and nurturing to everyone around her. Blake and Becca, who seem like just your typical diva stars, but who we learn as the book goes on have their own issues and motivations (Pru ends up being Blake’s muse, and he feels like he can’t perform without her – which ends up pushing Pru in quite a few ways and she learns to navigate that relationship and help Ellen with her play). Pru’s parents are the only characters who are just a little bit two-dimensional – we really mostly get to see their crazy – but by the end of the book, I was happy to see hope for Pru and her parents. Lastly, there’s Adam, Pru’s neurotic OCD love interest, who is pretty much perfect for her. I loved that the romance in this book was built up slowly and didn’t overshadow Pru’s general growth as a person – and Adam was hard not to adore!
The negatives:
Almost too naive at first?
Since Pru was so sheltered and because she suffers from extreme anxiety, she sometimes comes off as very young and extremely naive – almost like a child in certain ways. This was the point of the book, and for the most part it worked, but every once in a great while I found myself thinking, Really? Also, I personally get frustrated when extremely naive characters like this jump into sex – she basically went from her first kiss to a sexual relationship in one day. I get that the point was that she felt like she was being held back by her parents and she was ready to jump into her new found independence, but I just felt like it was kind of a rush to get to that finish line, and I would have liked to have seen her take her time with that step a little more (considering her character, I think this would have been more realistic) – but this is perhaps just a personal pet peeve. Obviously, these things didn’t ruin my overall enjoyment of the book, though!
If you’re looking for a fun and quirky contemporary with heart, I highly recommend Just Pru. This is the second book that I’ve read by Pfeffer, and I’ve found myself loving both of them! I will definitely be reading more. I give this book 4.5/5 stars.
***Disclosure: I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. No other compensation was given and all opinions are my own.***
November 25, 2016
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Why I read it: I have read a novel by Anne Pfeffer before (Girls Love Travis Walker) and I quite enjoyed it. The synopsis made this sound good, so why not, I thought!
Plot: Pru Anderson and her cat Chuck (I love Chuck) are rescued from their burning apartment building. Pru doesn’t know any of the people she has been living amongst for the past couple of months, but finds herself taken in by Ellen until she can get back on her feet.
Pru is not employed, she doesn’t have any close friends (let alone a boyfriend). She has some crippling anxiety issues, and is in a struggle with herself to grow into her own person – her parents being overbearing figures in her life, never allowing her to find out what it is that she wants.
Just Pru is really a story of self-discovery, and how to stand up for yourself against the doubters.
Characters: Pru! I love Pru! I love her cat Chuck too, but that might just be because he is a cat and I love cats (fictional or not). Ellen is lovely, and Adam is so neurotic but perfect (he and Pru really are two peas in a pod) the people that Pru meets through Ellen and her play are also great characters, even if they aren’t all that likeable.
Style/Writing: The pacing was great, the plot was great, the writing was great. You can see how it goes. I fell in love with this gem of a contemporary novel.
While this is a new adult novel (or maybe it's just an adult novel, I'm not entirely sure...) it has a bit of a YA feel to it because it's a coming of age story, really. It's also mostly clean, sexual content wise.
Pros: Everything about this book is glorious and I don’t know if I can put into words my love for it. I like how Pfeffer tackled the issues that Pru has, and how realistically she tackles them. She thinks about how her favourite fictional heroine might deal with it, and then tries it out herself. And haven’t we all relied on someone, thought ‘I bet so & so would do this…’ and then given it a go? I have. I could also relate to the anxiety as well, I suffer from it a bit myself and I hate driving, but I do it every day. I might go the long way and take the back streets where possible, but I do it!
The character development of Pru is just wonderful. Really. Wonderful. Oh gosh. I guess I found those words to say how much I loved it!
Cons: Not even in the slightest bit applicable. Wait. WHY WASN’T IT LONGER? WHY IS THERE NO SEQUEL?!
In Brief: Read it!*
*If you like contemporaryawesomeness romance.
Why I read it: I have read a novel by Anne Pfeffer before (Girls Love Travis Walker) and I quite enjoyed it. The synopsis made this sound good, so why not, I thought!
Plot: Pru Anderson and her cat Chuck (I love Chuck) are rescued from their burning apartment building. Pru doesn’t know any of the people she has been living amongst for the past couple of months, but finds herself taken in by Ellen until she can get back on her feet.
Pru is not employed, she doesn’t have any close friends (let alone a boyfriend). She has some crippling anxiety issues, and is in a struggle with herself to grow into her own person – her parents being overbearing figures in her life, never allowing her to find out what it is that she wants.
Just Pru is really a story of self-discovery, and how to stand up for yourself against the doubters.
Characters: Pru! I love Pru! I love her cat Chuck too, but that might just be because he is a cat and I love cats (fictional or not). Ellen is lovely, and Adam is so neurotic but perfect (he and Pru really are two peas in a pod) the people that Pru meets through Ellen and her play are also great characters, even if they aren’t all that likeable.
Style/Writing: The pacing was great, the plot was great, the writing was great. You can see how it goes. I fell in love with this gem of a contemporary novel.
While this is a new adult novel (or maybe it's just an adult novel, I'm not entirely sure...) it has a bit of a YA feel to it because it's a coming of age story, really. It's also mostly clean, sexual content wise.
Pros: Everything about this book is glorious and I don’t know if I can put into words my love for it. I like how Pfeffer tackled the issues that Pru has, and how realistically she tackles them. She thinks about how her favourite fictional heroine might deal with it, and then tries it out herself. And haven’t we all relied on someone, thought ‘I bet so & so would do this…’ and then given it a go? I have. I could also relate to the anxiety as well, I suffer from it a bit myself and I hate driving, but I do it every day. I might go the long way and take the back streets where possible, but I do it!
The character development of Pru is just wonderful. Really. Wonderful. Oh gosh. I guess I found those words to say how much I loved it!
Cons: Not even in the slightest bit applicable. Wait. WHY WASN’T IT LONGER? WHY IS THERE NO SEQUEL?!
In Brief: Read it!*
*If you like contemporary
May 1, 2015
What I liked: Pru's story is one that is learning to be confident and learning to stand on your own two feet. At 25 Pru has lead a mostly sheltered life because of her anxiety that tends to kick in around other people, and now that there has been a fire in the apartment complex she lives in she has no choice but to talk to strangers so that the two people who have sheltered her from everything, her parents, don't take her back to where she doesn't want to be. Pru grows a lot over the story, gradually branching out and doing things that she never thought she would before. Pru looks up to Pepper Hathaway, the heroine of a crime show who is both a detective and a super model, and many times in the novel she deferred to what she believed Pepper would do. By the end though, its clear that Pru has started to find her way after all the disasters that happened to land her where she ended up at. Her story about finding herself is an important and lovely one, with its own struggles and moments along the way.
What I didn't like: I had a problem with how easy Adam dismissed Pru when her parents sent officers to his house. It just seemed weird that, moments before they had seemed so close and just because of her parents he made her leave. It didn't sit with me right, but that might have just been me?
Overall Review: A story full of humor and people who were entertaining to read about Just Pru is a delightful novel. I enjoyed most of the characters that I felt like were characters I would like, and I empathized with Pru a great deal as I watched her struggle with trying to put her life back in order after moving in with Ellen. She overcame many obstacles that stood in her way from becoming more independent and standing on her own and getting away from her parents (which, their daughter is 25 anyway, they can't make her do anything really. They were way to controlling anyway).
Recommend?: If you're looking for a story that is filled with humor, some romance, and a little bit of angst as well then I suggest that you try this book out!
What I didn't like: I had a problem with how easy Adam dismissed Pru when her parents sent officers to his house. It just seemed weird that, moments before they had seemed so close and just because of her parents he made her leave. It didn't sit with me right, but that might have just been me?
Overall Review: A story full of humor and people who were entertaining to read about Just Pru is a delightful novel. I enjoyed most of the characters that I felt like were characters I would like, and I empathized with Pru a great deal as I watched her struggle with trying to put her life back in order after moving in with Ellen. She overcame many obstacles that stood in her way from becoming more independent and standing on her own and getting away from her parents (which, their daughter is 25 anyway, they can't make her do anything really. They were way to controlling anyway).
Recommend?: If you're looking for a story that is filled with humor, some romance, and a little bit of angst as well then I suggest that you try this book out!
February 28, 2015
Just Pru by Anne Pfeffer was sheer book perfection for me from the first page to the last. I fell in love with Pru right away. I wanted to jump right in and be her best friend. Pru is a mess. She has been all her life and has been told that she’s a mess all her life. Pru just has no idea how amazing she really is, and it takes some pretty crazy situations to get her there.
Pru has lived at home with her parents and not really experienced life. She bases all of her assumptions on TV shows and movies. Pru finally moved out into her own apartment, but when there is a building fire, her neighbors don’t even know she lives in the building. Pru is forced to make some tough choices for survival after she isn’t able to return to her burned-out apartment. Ellen, a neighbor, takes her in for a week in exchange for using Pru’s car.
This was just a great read. I was laughing out loud so many times while reading, and underlining in my Kindle frequently. The dialogue and character interactions are wonderful. I loved following Pru on her journey, and I didn’t want her story to end. It was great to see her blossom and grow. This is one of the best books I’ve read and I know Pru will be on my mind for quite some time. You need to read this. Your girlfriends need to read this. Your book club needs to read this. Just read it! Five (hundred?) big shiny stars for Just Pru by Anne Pfeffer.
I received an ebook for review purposes; this did not influence my opinion or the content of my review.
Pru has lived at home with her parents and not really experienced life. She bases all of her assumptions on TV shows and movies. Pru finally moved out into her own apartment, but when there is a building fire, her neighbors don’t even know she lives in the building. Pru is forced to make some tough choices for survival after she isn’t able to return to her burned-out apartment. Ellen, a neighbor, takes her in for a week in exchange for using Pru’s car.
This was just a great read. I was laughing out loud so many times while reading, and underlining in my Kindle frequently. The dialogue and character interactions are wonderful. I loved following Pru on her journey, and I didn’t want her story to end. It was great to see her blossom and grow. This is one of the best books I’ve read and I know Pru will be on my mind for quite some time. You need to read this. Your girlfriends need to read this. Your book club needs to read this. Just read it! Five (hundred?) big shiny stars for Just Pru by Anne Pfeffer.
I received an ebook for review purposes; this did not influence my opinion or the content of my review.
March 12, 2015
There are so many ways I love this book, Pru was just a great character. Equal parts humor and pathos she is definitely going to be unforgettable. As a whole the book was just all out entertaining and insightful, why in so many ways our neurosis can actually make life more interesting. The plot can be categorize as a coming of age story. Pru comes late to the party called life but when she bravely defies all her programmed anxieties and fears she goes all out to try everything. Hello we've all been there, looking for roads to drive where we just turn right to avoid left turns (and this is literal and not figuratively I might add). Definitel Just Pru is a must read.
*ARC provided by the publisher*
*ARC provided by the publisher*
February 28, 2015
Just Pru was something that I needed to read. I laughed so hard when I read that she was from Oregon….she is 25 (Just like myself) and she has a cat (Just like me lol) Pru has depression and anxiety, she doesn’t leave her apartment much. But, she is someone that we all can relate to.
After her apartment catches fire, she is forced to get to know her neighbors, who help her get back on her feet, after her apartment is destroyed. Even though she is not sure at first, then she meets Adam, someone who just might understand her better than everyone else.
This book, is funny and cute! I think every twenty-something girl should read!
After her apartment catches fire, she is forced to get to know her neighbors, who help her get back on her feet, after her apartment is destroyed. Even though she is not sure at first, then she meets Adam, someone who just might understand her better than everyone else.
This book, is funny and cute! I think every twenty-something girl should read!
March 1, 2015
Loved this book, lots of humor sprinkled throughout that made me laugh out loud in places.
Pru is a mess - we all blame her parents for being over protective, but as this story grows Pru realizes that maybe she isn't as bad off as she or her parents think. Moving to LA from Oregon as the best thing she could have done to spread her wings, even if it takes her awhile to realize it.
While I didn't identify with Pru's neurosis, I could understand them and cheered her on each time she took a new step in becoming her own woman. I like how the author moves Pru forward a few steps and then back one as she continues to evolve.
Pru is a mess - we all blame her parents for being over protective, but as this story grows Pru realizes that maybe she isn't as bad off as she or her parents think. Moving to LA from Oregon as the best thing she could have done to spread her wings, even if it takes her awhile to realize it.
While I didn't identify with Pru's neurosis, I could understand them and cheered her on each time she took a new step in becoming her own woman. I like how the author moves Pru forward a few steps and then back one as she continues to evolve.
January 3, 2019
This book was so cute. It was hilarious, fun, charming, and sweet. This is an adult book, so it's not necessarily coming of age, per se, but it was about finding yourself, and living your own life, and I just all-around loved it.
Pru has just moved to LA, when her apartment complex catches fire. Now she has no place to stay, no money, and not even any clothes. However, Pru has just escaped her controlling, restrictive parents, and isn't about to give up and go back. Pru also has anxiety, keeping her shut up and closed off, and has never even met her neighbors. But when Ellen takes her in, Pru has to learn to come out of her shell.
Pru was hilarious. She was sweet and funny. She struggles throughout the story, a lot. With her weight, with her anxiety, with her parents, with having feelings for a guy for the first time ever. She was so naive about things, and it was heartbreaking yet adorable at the same time.
I also loved the side characters from Adam, with all his quirks and adorableness, to Ellen and her crew of actors. Blake and Becca and their drama. Well, except for Pru's parents. They were beyond ridiculous. The way they were so controlling and oppressive, made my skin crawl. All of Pru's life, they tell her she isn't like normal kids, can't do things like normal kids, and basically keep her locked up. But they played their part in the story, and the fact that I dislike them show much shows how well they were written. The secondary characters brought life to the story, and added depth.
But I loved this message, and what this story has to offer its readers. Empowerment, independence. Pru has to learn to stand on her own two feet. She has to decide to live life the way she wants to, and not the way her parents have been telling her. She has to be comfortable in her body, doing what she loves to do. And hey, a cute guy doesn't hurt either ;)
I loved this story from start to finish. It was hilarious, but relatable. We may not all struggle with the level of anxiety and other mental issues that Pru does, but I think we all still, on some level, understand. This was a great and powerful story, and one I definitely recommend.
I received a copy from the author, this did not affect my honest review.
This review first appears on The NerdHerd Reads
Pru has just moved to LA, when her apartment complex catches fire. Now she has no place to stay, no money, and not even any clothes. However, Pru has just escaped her controlling, restrictive parents, and isn't about to give up and go back. Pru also has anxiety, keeping her shut up and closed off, and has never even met her neighbors. But when Ellen takes her in, Pru has to learn to come out of her shell.
Pru was hilarious. She was sweet and funny. She struggles throughout the story, a lot. With her weight, with her anxiety, with her parents, with having feelings for a guy for the first time ever. She was so naive about things, and it was heartbreaking yet adorable at the same time.
I also loved the side characters from Adam, with all his quirks and adorableness, to Ellen and her crew of actors. Blake and Becca and their drama. Well, except for Pru's parents. They were beyond ridiculous. The way they were so controlling and oppressive, made my skin crawl. All of Pru's life, they tell her she isn't like normal kids, can't do things like normal kids, and basically keep her locked up. But they played their part in the story, and the fact that I dislike them show much shows how well they were written. The secondary characters brought life to the story, and added depth.
But I loved this message, and what this story has to offer its readers. Empowerment, independence. Pru has to learn to stand on her own two feet. She has to decide to live life the way she wants to, and not the way her parents have been telling her. She has to be comfortable in her body, doing what she loves to do. And hey, a cute guy doesn't hurt either ;)
I loved this story from start to finish. It was hilarious, but relatable. We may not all struggle with the level of anxiety and other mental issues that Pru does, but I think we all still, on some level, understand. This was a great and powerful story, and one I definitely recommend.
I received a copy from the author, this did not affect my honest review.
This review first appears on The NerdHerd Reads
October 19, 2021
Pru just moved into her new apartment that comes with a chunky cat called Chuck, living alone for the first time in her life, when her apartment went ablaze. Having saved nothing but her cat and her journal, she now has to wonder if this is the universe’s sign for her to move back with her parents in Clayton.
Luckily, her neighbor Ellen comes to rescue and eventually adopts her and the cat Pru has adopted.
“Just Pru” is about the titular character’s gradual progress into independence and growth, and it’s such a comforting story. Pru’s therapist, Dr. Abbot, is a constant mention throughout the book – showing just how much our main character looks up to me. His sage wisdom is incredibly important for Pru and they are also advice that anyone can apply in their lives.
Despite being a likable character though, I didn’t really find Pru that much compelling. She reminds me of the classic quirky main characters in women’s fiction, both in books and movies. This isn’t a bad thing, of course; I adore the quirky main character. However, it did feel, for most part, that her growth was a bit too linear. The obstacles she had to go through were more like suggestions rather than obstacles that are difficult to go through. The romance aspect was a quite lukewarm to me and I did end up rooting for the second love interest more than the one she ended up with.
Still, this book is a very pleasant and lighthearted read that I did quite enjoy. It’s perfect for anyone looking for something mild and comforting.
Luckily, her neighbor Ellen comes to rescue and eventually adopts her and the cat Pru has adopted.
“Just Pru” is about the titular character’s gradual progress into independence and growth, and it’s such a comforting story. Pru’s therapist, Dr. Abbot, is a constant mention throughout the book – showing just how much our main character looks up to me. His sage wisdom is incredibly important for Pru and they are also advice that anyone can apply in their lives.
Despite being a likable character though, I didn’t really find Pru that much compelling. She reminds me of the classic quirky main characters in women’s fiction, both in books and movies. This isn’t a bad thing, of course; I adore the quirky main character. However, it did feel, for most part, that her growth was a bit too linear. The obstacles she had to go through were more like suggestions rather than obstacles that are difficult to go through. The romance aspect was a quite lukewarm to me and I did end up rooting for the second love interest more than the one she ended up with.
Still, this book is a very pleasant and lighthearted read that I did quite enjoy. It’s perfect for anyone looking for something mild and comforting.
September 29, 2021
I want to thank Anne Pfeffer, author and Goodreads First Reads Giveaway for the paperback copy of Just Pru that I won in the Giveaway.
Prudence Anderson, a twenty-five year-old shy introvert with issue is in LA. One night her world turns upside down when her apartment building catches fire and she is left in her pajamas, no shoes, and everything she owns just went up in smoke except her cat, Chuck-Chuck and her journal. She has no money, no identification, no clothes and has just been carried down a ladder by a fireman that rescued when she is taken in by one of her neighbors.
The neighbor finds clothes, a sleeping bag and everything Pru needs and gives her a job as her assistant producer of a play. Pru just gets funnier and funnier as she connects with lots of different people. The humor is first rate in this romantic comedy. Her parents are a nightmare when they show up to take her home to Oregon, but Pru has a life, friends, a job and a boyfriend and doesn't want to go home. I loved how she found a way to connect with others, found a way to have a productive life and escape her wacky and controlling parents. The development of Just Pru was done with heart, a deep understanding of communicating and a plot that showed an awareness of how to get the the center of a problem and solve it a step at a time. I loved Pru and her fun way of looking at people and the world.
Prudence Anderson, a twenty-five year-old shy introvert with issue is in LA. One night her world turns upside down when her apartment building catches fire and she is left in her pajamas, no shoes, and everything she owns just went up in smoke except her cat, Chuck-Chuck and her journal. She has no money, no identification, no clothes and has just been carried down a ladder by a fireman that rescued when she is taken in by one of her neighbors.
The neighbor finds clothes, a sleeping bag and everything Pru needs and gives her a job as her assistant producer of a play. Pru just gets funnier and funnier as she connects with lots of different people. The humor is first rate in this romantic comedy. Her parents are a nightmare when they show up to take her home to Oregon, but Pru has a life, friends, a job and a boyfriend and doesn't want to go home. I loved how she found a way to connect with others, found a way to have a productive life and escape her wacky and controlling parents. The development of Just Pru was done with heart, a deep understanding of communicating and a plot that showed an awareness of how to get the the center of a problem and solve it a step at a time. I loved Pru and her fun way of looking at people and the world.
October 25, 2021
"Just Pru" is a spectacular book that follows the life of twenty-five-year-old Pru who has been struggling with anxiety but does not let that deter her from living a fulfilled life. After her apartment catches fire, she moves in with Ellen, a production manager, and her life turns into an adventure as she navigates through new friendships, romance, her untapped abilities, and moving past her anxiety and depression.
Told from a very humorous perspective, the story is such a delight. There are moments readers will smile broadly and other times, laugh out loud during the reading.
Once in a while, we come across a book, so captivating and intricately written that draws one in right from the onset. "Just Pru" is one such book. Skillfully written, the author manages to cleverly know what to write and when to write it. Pru's emotions and thoughts are intelligently displayed and I could not help celebrate Pru's wins and root for her in every situation. The book has a wonderful ending leaving no cliffhangers.
Truly one of the best books I have read this year. In my opinion, Author Anne Pfeffer has penned a classic. The writing style is fresh and fun. "Just Pru" is a must-read for anyone looking for a heartwarming story. You will not be disappointed whatsoever.
Told from a very humorous perspective, the story is such a delight. There are moments readers will smile broadly and other times, laugh out loud during the reading.
Once in a while, we come across a book, so captivating and intricately written that draws one in right from the onset. "Just Pru" is one such book. Skillfully written, the author manages to cleverly know what to write and when to write it. Pru's emotions and thoughts are intelligently displayed and I could not help celebrate Pru's wins and root for her in every situation. The book has a wonderful ending leaving no cliffhangers.
Truly one of the best books I have read this year. In my opinion, Author Anne Pfeffer has penned a classic. The writing style is fresh and fun. "Just Pru" is a must-read for anyone looking for a heartwarming story. You will not be disappointed whatsoever.
May 28, 2015
Five Stars: A funny, five star indie gem that you need read.
Pru savors the sweetness of ice cream followed by the salty crunch of potato chips as she lounges on her couch watching her favorite tv show. Normally, the combination of sweet and salty plus the antics of Pepper Hathaway solving her latest crime, would put Pru in a great mood, but her good luck charms aren't working tonight. Pru received another job rejection letter. After two months of living on her own in California, Pru's job prospects are slim and her savings is dwindling. If something doesn't change quickly, Pru will be forced to return home to Oregon to live with her parents. The last thing Pru wants is to go home. Suddenly, the fire alarm shrills. At first, Pru ignores it, but it turns out to be the real deal. Pru's apartment is destroyed, but luckily, a kind neighbor, Ellen takes her in. Now Pru has some big decisions to make. Will she sink or float?
What I Liked:
*Just Pru was a fantastic, fun, quick pick me up read that I was able to read in an afternoon. This is a perfect book for anyone who wants a laugh, and for those who can relate to being awkward and out of place. Pru is a quirky, neurotic heroine who will make you laugh and cheer. I had so a great time with this read, I urge you to give it a try.
*I love when I run across an indie gem, and Just Pru was one of those finds. It is properly edited and polished, and it is an excellent story. For all of you who want something funny, original and indie, this is the read for you.
*Pru is the heart and soul of this book. When I first met her, she was down and out, drowning in food and misery. Then the fire changes everything for her. With her world turned upside down, Pru could have taken the easy way out and gone home with her tail tucked between her legs, but she decides to fight. Nothing comes easy for Pru as she was raised by two completely neurotic and controlling parents. Thus, Pru is prone to anxiety, she is depressed and she is completely socially inept. Everything Pru has learned about life comes from tv. Thankfully, after the fire, she meets Ellen and Adam, two people who accept her with all of her quirks and flaws and help her find her way. I loved watching Pru take tentative baby steps. It takes time, but she gets there. I was amazed at her transformation and I couldn't help but cheer for her every step of the way. What makes her shine is her inner dialogue and unintended humor. She says and does some funny things mostly because her ideas of the world are taken from her favorite tv shows. She truly made me laugh. I loved her heart, and I loved her curves. I liked that she was a size fourteen, and that she learned to be comfortable with her body. I think you need to meet Pru for yourself. She will snag your heart.
*The cast of secondary characters is just as endearing as Pru. Ellen the kindly neighbor who rescues Pru after the fire, immediately gets that Pru has issues. Never once does she press Pru or force her to do things outside her comfort zone. She remains incredibly patient and generous. Then there is Adam, the OCD neighbor. Adam is a germaphobe and he has is own sets of quirks and insecurities. He comes armed with hand sanitizers, gloves, cleaning products and lint rollers. Putting Adam and Pru together is hilarious, but charming as well. Add in Blake, the bad boy actor, who tries to bury his past and emotions with his swagger and smile. I loved getting underneath his skin and seeing the vulnerable boy underneath. I thought all of the characters were well developed, flawed and realistic.
*The romance was adorable and sweet. It is a different kind of romance that starts out as a friendship, and it requires lots of patience, time and trust. It is also a bit odd, funny, and all kinds of cute. There was one big stumble, and I wasn't a fan of how one of the parties reacted to a bad situation, but luckily they more than made up for it later. I loved the romance in this one.
*This book is all about a socially awkward, anxious and a bit neurotic, young woman who manages to break out of her shell, and with the help of a couple of new friends, find her way and make a life for herself. I loved the transformation and journey of Pru. This was a terrific, cute and wonderful read, that I hope you all will try. I picked it up and read it in one sitting because it was that good.
And The Not So Much:
*I am all about the back story when I read a book, especially one with such an interesting character as Pru. I wanted to know so much more about her upbringing and her home life with her parents. I especially wanted a better understanding of how and why she decided to take such a big risk when she broke free. I wish that the author had given us more detail on Pru's history.
*Pru's dead therapist was a big important part of the reason why Pru manages to achieve her transformation. This is another part of the story that I wanted more information. I would love to have more of the history between Pru and her therapist, especially considering her statements at the end of the book regarding her therapist.
*Pru's parents are the villains in the story. They seemed to be the root cause of all of Pru's neurotic behavior. I was curious to know more about them, their relationship with Pru and why they behaved the way the did.
Just Pru was a terrific indie find. I loved this whacky, unusual story about a socially awkward girl who finally manages to break out of her shell and find her way. This is a book that will make you laugh and cheer. It has fantastic, realistic and quirky characters and an adorable romance. If you are looking for a polished, fun, feel good indie gem, I highly recommend grabbing a copy of Just Pru and setting aside an afternoon.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and I was not compensated for this review.
Posted@Rainy Day Ramblings.
Pru savors the sweetness of ice cream followed by the salty crunch of potato chips as she lounges on her couch watching her favorite tv show. Normally, the combination of sweet and salty plus the antics of Pepper Hathaway solving her latest crime, would put Pru in a great mood, but her good luck charms aren't working tonight. Pru received another job rejection letter. After two months of living on her own in California, Pru's job prospects are slim and her savings is dwindling. If something doesn't change quickly, Pru will be forced to return home to Oregon to live with her parents. The last thing Pru wants is to go home. Suddenly, the fire alarm shrills. At first, Pru ignores it, but it turns out to be the real deal. Pru's apartment is destroyed, but luckily, a kind neighbor, Ellen takes her in. Now Pru has some big decisions to make. Will she sink or float?
What I Liked:
*Just Pru was a fantastic, fun, quick pick me up read that I was able to read in an afternoon. This is a perfect book for anyone who wants a laugh, and for those who can relate to being awkward and out of place. Pru is a quirky, neurotic heroine who will make you laugh and cheer. I had so a great time with this read, I urge you to give it a try.
*I love when I run across an indie gem, and Just Pru was one of those finds. It is properly edited and polished, and it is an excellent story. For all of you who want something funny, original and indie, this is the read for you.
*Pru is the heart and soul of this book. When I first met her, she was down and out, drowning in food and misery. Then the fire changes everything for her. With her world turned upside down, Pru could have taken the easy way out and gone home with her tail tucked between her legs, but she decides to fight. Nothing comes easy for Pru as she was raised by two completely neurotic and controlling parents. Thus, Pru is prone to anxiety, she is depressed and she is completely socially inept. Everything Pru has learned about life comes from tv. Thankfully, after the fire, she meets Ellen and Adam, two people who accept her with all of her quirks and flaws and help her find her way. I loved watching Pru take tentative baby steps. It takes time, but she gets there. I was amazed at her transformation and I couldn't help but cheer for her every step of the way. What makes her shine is her inner dialogue and unintended humor. She says and does some funny things mostly because her ideas of the world are taken from her favorite tv shows. She truly made me laugh. I loved her heart, and I loved her curves. I liked that she was a size fourteen, and that she learned to be comfortable with her body. I think you need to meet Pru for yourself. She will snag your heart.
*The cast of secondary characters is just as endearing as Pru. Ellen the kindly neighbor who rescues Pru after the fire, immediately gets that Pru has issues. Never once does she press Pru or force her to do things outside her comfort zone. She remains incredibly patient and generous. Then there is Adam, the OCD neighbor. Adam is a germaphobe and he has is own sets of quirks and insecurities. He comes armed with hand sanitizers, gloves, cleaning products and lint rollers. Putting Adam and Pru together is hilarious, but charming as well. Add in Blake, the bad boy actor, who tries to bury his past and emotions with his swagger and smile. I loved getting underneath his skin and seeing the vulnerable boy underneath. I thought all of the characters were well developed, flawed and realistic.
*The romance was adorable and sweet. It is a different kind of romance that starts out as a friendship, and it requires lots of patience, time and trust. It is also a bit odd, funny, and all kinds of cute. There was one big stumble, and I wasn't a fan of how one of the parties reacted to a bad situation, but luckily they more than made up for it later. I loved the romance in this one.
*This book is all about a socially awkward, anxious and a bit neurotic, young woman who manages to break out of her shell, and with the help of a couple of new friends, find her way and make a life for herself. I loved the transformation and journey of Pru. This was a terrific, cute and wonderful read, that I hope you all will try. I picked it up and read it in one sitting because it was that good.
And The Not So Much:
*I am all about the back story when I read a book, especially one with such an interesting character as Pru. I wanted to know so much more about her upbringing and her home life with her parents. I especially wanted a better understanding of how and why she decided to take such a big risk when she broke free. I wish that the author had given us more detail on Pru's history.
*Pru's dead therapist was a big important part of the reason why Pru manages to achieve her transformation. This is another part of the story that I wanted more information. I would love to have more of the history between Pru and her therapist, especially considering her statements at the end of the book regarding her therapist.
*Pru's parents are the villains in the story. They seemed to be the root cause of all of Pru's neurotic behavior. I was curious to know more about them, their relationship with Pru and why they behaved the way the did.
Just Pru was a terrific indie find. I loved this whacky, unusual story about a socially awkward girl who finally manages to break out of her shell and find her way. This is a book that will make you laugh and cheer. It has fantastic, realistic and quirky characters and an adorable romance. If you are looking for a polished, fun, feel good indie gem, I highly recommend grabbing a copy of Just Pru and setting aside an afternoon.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and I was not compensated for this review.
Posted@Rainy Day Ramblings.
October 19, 2021
Prudence has recently lost virtually everything she has in a fire, including her invisibility, in Anne Pfeffer's novel Just Pru. She's welcomed inside the apartment of Ellen Price, a rising playwright with a show nearing completion, with just her cat and a nightgown to her name. She's thrown into Ellen's world, complete with gorgeous neighbor Adam and the stunning cast of the show.
This novel is both lighthearted and somber, but what I liked best about it is that Pru isn't your standard heroine who can do everything with a flick of her lashes. Adam, her romantic obsession, is temperamental as well. Because neither of them is flawless, this book is charmingly perfect. What about the humiliating scenes? Do you know how it may be difficult not to grimace and give up while reading them in books? There's nothing of that here. And the way things turn out is the stuff that HEA-lovers' fantasies are made of.
I'd read Anne Pfeffer before and knew she'd write a wonderful novel, but I had no idea what I was getting myself into. But I was captivated as soon as I started reading. I couldn't put the book down and was instantly drawn into Pru's world.
This novel is both lighthearted and somber, but what I liked best about it is that Pru isn't your standard heroine who can do everything with a flick of her lashes. Adam, her romantic obsession, is temperamental as well. Because neither of them is flawless, this book is charmingly perfect. What about the humiliating scenes? Do you know how it may be difficult not to grimace and give up while reading them in books? There's nothing of that here. And the way things turn out is the stuff that HEA-lovers' fantasies are made of.
I'd read Anne Pfeffer before and knew she'd write a wonderful novel, but I had no idea what I was getting myself into. But I was captivated as soon as I started reading. I couldn't put the book down and was instantly drawn into Pru's world.
October 31, 2021
25 year old Pru Anderson moves to LA with her cat Chuck in hopes of escaping her controlling parents and give herself more independence. But 2 months in, Pru remains jobless and is struggling to make ends meet. When a fire rips through her apartment building, she is left stranded with Chuck and her journal and Pru wonders if this is the universe's sign for her to move back in with her parents. Luckily, her upstairs neighbor Ellen, a budding playwright , offers to let Pru live with her while Pru gets herself situated. Pru is thrown into Ellen's semi-chaotic life but slowly finds herself opening up more to others and making friends. Readers follow Pru as she deals with the ups and downs of life, while attempting to manage her anxiety and depression. Pfeffer does an excellent job of working with heavy subjects such as mental illness in a realistic yet light manner. Pru is funny without realizing it and there are plenty of laugh out loud moments. Readers will cheer for Pru as she comes into herself and learns how to navigate her new life filled with new opportunities, new friends, and a chance for love.
October 17, 2021
I really enjoyed reading Just Pru. The story has some really quirky characters and I loved how their mental health was just part of the narrative and yet really moving. Following Pru as she navigates life, with all its ups and downs, alongside managing her crippling anxiety was a complete delight. Anne Pfeffer, the author deals with sensitive subjects with humour and makes them relatable with her well written dialogues.
I have been lucky to have never suffered from a severe mental health crisis but I loved being able to journey alongside Pru and I felt educated along the way. Occasionally, I just wished that the author had slowed the story down and filled in some background, added a layer of detail that I felt was missing, but that may have all been part of the plan to leave the reader wanting more!
A romantic, humorous novel touching on real issues in a relatable way ... what more could you want in a read! Thank you for this book Anne Pfeffer!
I have been lucky to have never suffered from a severe mental health crisis but I loved being able to journey alongside Pru and I felt educated along the way. Occasionally, I just wished that the author had slowed the story down and filled in some background, added a layer of detail that I felt was missing, but that may have all been part of the plan to leave the reader wanting more!
A romantic, humorous novel touching on real issues in a relatable way ... what more could you want in a read! Thank you for this book Anne Pfeffer!
October 20, 2021
I read this book in one sitting, from the very beginning I was hooked. 'Just Pru' is a coming-of-age story about Prudence (Pru) living on her own for the first-time in LA. She's 25 but has lived a very sheltered life due to her struggles with anxiety and depression and her over-bearing parents. After a fire in her new apartment building Pru must face her neighbors and figure out her next steps.
I loved Pru's character, she is quirky and kind. Her internal thoughts and frequent soical "faux-pas" add light-hearted humor to the book. Anne Pfeffer also did an amazing job writing her mental health struggles. All together, Pru's journey throughout the book is inspiring and heart-warming. I also really enjoyed the other characters in the book and their interactions with Pru.
I don't have bad things to say about this book, I loved the story-line and the conclusion. The writing is great and engaging. I highly recommend!
I loved Pru's character, she is quirky and kind. Her internal thoughts and frequent soical "faux-pas" add light-hearted humor to the book. Anne Pfeffer also did an amazing job writing her mental health struggles. All together, Pru's journey throughout the book is inspiring and heart-warming. I also really enjoyed the other characters in the book and their interactions with Pru.
I don't have bad things to say about this book, I loved the story-line and the conclusion. The writing is great and engaging. I highly recommend!
October 11, 2021
If you liked "Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine", you'll enjoy "Just Pru." Quirky characters and good book club discussions are found here. Pru is an awkward 20-something whose apartment was just condemned due to a nearby fire. She moves in with Ellen who takes her under her wing, introduces her to the people in her life, and gives her a job as an assistant in the play she's directing. Blake, the lead actor in the play, decides that Pru is his muse, and her straight-forwardness is exactly what he needs for a brilliant performance. I love Pru's relationship with Adam, and her parents' treatment should make for interesting book club conversations. All-in-all a wonderful read that I think you'll enjoy. 5/5 stars
September 7, 2017
I'm not sure how or where I heard about this book but it was on my KU wishlist so here we are. Prudence has crippling anxiety and very intense overprotective parents who have enabled her to become completely helpless. A house fire later Pru finds herself a job and somehow drives a car around LA despite only driving 20 miles an hour. This is a story about a girl finding her way and finding a little bit of romance and is a sweet story but that cover is frankly...horrible.
November 10, 2021
A laugh out loud story. Funny, heartwarming, and totally refreshing take on mental illness. Pru not only learns how to freely explore new friendships and opening herself up to romance, but also navigates a challenging relationship with her parents. This piece of chic lit/contemporary fiction is spot on with comedic timing. Truly a delight to read. Anne Pfeffer is an author worth following. A definite winner in my book!
October 3, 2021
I wish to thank Anne Pfeffer, the author of Just Pru that I won in the Goodreads First Reads Giveaway.
I loved the character of Just Pru and all her humorous behavior, especially her driving. This was a wonder book and highly recommend it as entertaining and just plain fun to read.
I loved the character of Just Pru and all her humorous behavior, especially her driving. This was a wonder book and highly recommend it as entertaining and just plain fun to read.
October 29, 2021
If you enjoy lighthearted coming of age stories, you’ll like Just Pru. Pru, a 25-year-old living on her own for the first time, works to build her career in LA even as she looks for romance and navigates different adventures.
I can see book clubs discussing Pru’s character, her romantic and family relationships, and her journey.
I can see book clubs discussing Pru’s character, her romantic and family relationships, and her journey.
October 19, 2021
Just Pru was an unexpected delight. I was rooting for Pru from the first page, and enjoyed going along with her on her journey. The author did an excellent job of treating heavy difficult topics with a light hand, from mental illness to emotional abuse. I couldn't put it down. The characters were a fantastic blend of quirky, realistic, and distinct. The story was paced just right, and although I would have enjoyed going deeper in the story, it wasn't missing anything.
April 5, 2015
Just Pru by Anne Pfeffer is simply a beautiful book. It's down to earth, quick and mind-opening.
The book is about Prudence, a girl of twenty-five who has several psychological problems particularly those relating to interacting and dealing with people. The novel is narrated in the first person from Pru's perspective and opens with her therapist having died two weeks before and she has been unable to drive or go out into the world since. Dr. Abbott, her therapist, played a key role in helping her leave her parents' home and move to Los Angeles to become independent of her overbearing and overprotective parents.
Although her name is Prudence, she is far from being wise; at least she thinks so and acts like it often.
"Pru."
"As in Prudence?"
"Just Pru." I was not a Prudence and never would be.
Each chapter opens with a small bit from Pru's diary. In one of her entries, she writes:
"My mother told me once that my dad had wanted to name me Obedience, but she had intervened. She later claimed she had been joking, but I'd always half believed the story and amused myself by making up even worse named he could have chosen.
Subservience, Diligence, Timidity.
Each one, a bullet dodged."
Pru's experience with humans comes from the hundreds of shows and series, she's watched; however, these play an important role in her later interactions and transformation.
The novel opens with a fire in Pru's building. She is rescued but her apartment is mostly consumed by the flames. Not only is she now homeless and broke, she is terrified that if her parents find out about this, they will reign her back in and lock her up in their home in Clayton.
As the less-affected neighbours offer their services, Pru is housed by Ellen, a playwright and director, who is Pru's exact opposite: sociable, friendly, busy and independent. Pru finds it hard to talk to people, let alone look them in the eye. She has lived in her new apartment for two months but has never met any of the neighbours or mingled with them.
I like how the novel opens at a turning point in Pru's life. She has to think and go beyond her comfort zones, which aren't many, in order to survive.
I like how author Anne Pfeffer shows and handles the psychological dilemmas of both Pru and her neighbour Adam. Each of them suffers from something, and don't find it strange when they talk about it. The psychological aspect of the novel is done quite well. Also, Pru constantly remembers what her therapist, Dr. Abbott, used to say or would have said in every situation, enabling her to push on and keep moving forward.
"I thought longingly of my pills. They were the colours of summer – a pale baby blue one, same as the sky, and a lozenge in cheerful green and white, like striped lawn chairs."
I don't think anyone has ever thought so lovingly of medication, especially for depression.
I also enjoyed the contrast between Pru and Adam; both have psychological problems, see therapists and take medication, but one manages to interact with the world and the other hides away. Adam is successful despite his problems and indirectly helps Pru with hers.
The novel also contains the element of mystery as to who started the fire that burnt half the building. Since, the fire started somewhere near Pru's apartment, we get the insinuation that she may have started the fire – even by accident.
The novel entails a play, which Pru is thrown in and becomes a coach to one of the actors. Starting this point, we begin to see the change in Pru. She slowly matures and feels more responsible. We also see how she begins to interact with the opposite sex, a gender she rarely had an interaction with before.
Since the novel is narrated from Pru's perspective, we see her fight her problems. Sometimes she succumbs and at other times, she struggles and stands up to them. She is quite brave considering her condition. She is also "funny and smart" as one of the characters later tells her.
I like how Pru moves from wearing dark and loose clothes and trying to stay invisible to learning how to look, feel and want to be beautiful. All her life, she has been self-conscious about her size, but slowly she learns that it's not everything.
Just Pru is a story of self-discovery, beauty and maturity. It's a story of standing up to obstacles and family, a story of learning to make friends and helping others grow and become better.
Just Pru is a must-read contemporary.
Note: I received a free copy of Just Pru via Random Addition Book Tours (RABT) in exchange for an honest review for a blog tour.
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