Search - English as a Second Language

The main character of this book is a tough, sarcastic girl. She's very matter of fact, likes to smoke and drink and seems to have a slightly jaded view of relationships. I recommend this book if you want a light read about life in grad school with the cynical set. Its mostly about picking up, moving somewhere new and making friends, and a little dash of romance.

Very funny book for 20-somethings! I enjoyed it, but found it a bit much-got tired of the constant drinking and talk about men. I wished the main character would settle down a bit! But then, I'm not a 20-something anymore!

Happy endings for all.

While the concept for the story is good, for this book, I did not find it entirely funny, and found myself unable to connect with its story, although some moments and characters made me think.

I really thought I would love this book, having been a grad student myself at both Yale and Brown. However, the main character, while somewhat engaging in her quest to find herself, shows little interest in life in England other than chain-smoking and getting falling down drunk in the pub at a daily basis. The drunken behavior is an excuse for lots of bad behavior, including stalking her tutor/advisor, "snogging" and "shagging" (which may be synonymous- I'm not exactly sure). The cast of international students she meets at university are somewhat interesting, although not fully developed. A bit disappointing- it was hard to finish this book.

Enjoyed this book! Alex isn't the most likable main character, but neither is Toby. So I found it funny and a good way to pass time. I was really happy that she decided to do a masters, and in England to boot, something I've always wanted to do but haven't. Would be a good airplane read.

Very quick read, funny and perfect for any current garduate student - nicely done debut.