Although he’s smart – the best English student in the school – Rob has a lot of issues. Anxiety is the biggest. So many situations could bring on a panic attack, which could reduce him to a vomitting, gasping for breath, totally terrified wreck. In fact, some of his anxiety is a result of worrying about being anxious. Then a new girl comes to school: Destry Camberwick. Rob is smitten. He’s determined to impress this girl, no matter what it takes. An anonymous texter, who seems to know him far better than a random stranger should, sets him a series of challenges that aren’t intended to impress Destry; they’re meant to impress Rob with himself. However, Rob takes them on as a means of getting Destry’s attention. In the process, Rob must come out of his hiding place and allow the rest of the world to get to know him. That’s a terrifying thought.

This is a gentle, funny and engaging story, with a surprise ending. The characters are believable: from the shy, anxious protagonist to his foul-mouthed but well-intentioned Grandfather, and his nervous and protective parents. Rob’s best friend, Andrew, is supportive even when he doesn’t understand. And yet, one can’t help wondering: what caused the anxiety in the first place? Although the tone of the book is light-hearted and humorous, it deals with some deep life issues. The revelation of the cause of Rob’s worries pulls us up short, forcing us to do some rethinking.

Reviewed by Wendy Noble
Age Guide 12+