One Day





After reading great reviews about David Nicholls’ international bestseller One Day, I decided to give it a whirl while on vacation. Alas, I was more than a bit disappointed. The story meandered along, leaving me thinking, “Where is this going?” with each turn of the page. Sure, I liked the clever premise—each chapter offering a glimpse into the lives of Dexter Mayhew and Emma Morley on the same July day of each passing year. But it was utterly predictable from the start. I think I was also distracted by the fact that Anne Hathaway (annoying) and Jim Sturgess (what?) are playing the leads in the movie. Did those responsible for casting even READ this book? If you’ve read it, I’d love to know what you think about the casting choices!

The story goes like this: Emma and Dexter spend a romantic night together in 1988 on the eve of their graduation from college. A close friendship develops, but it’s easy to see that both have deeper feelings for the other. As we keep up with the pair over the next 20 years, we witness the ever sarcastic Emma working at jobs that are completely beneath her and dating hapless men (poor Ian)—all while struggling to become an author. Then there’s Dexter. He’s the hot-mess host of some ridiculous British tabloid-style talk show who fills his days and nights with drugs, booze and beautiful women.

After trudging along for pages and pages (will Dexter and Emma just get together already?!?), tragedy strikes. I admit, I didn’t see this little twist coming. As I finished the final few chapters, I felt the book had somewhat redeemed itself. However, best to borrow this from a friend rather than pay for your own copy if you still insist on reading it!