It was strange and sweet and entertaining and informative and fun. Great quick read that makes you feel all the feels.

Emmy Crawford seems to be at the top of her game as she navigates 1. Her shifting family dynamics as her mom’s political career increasingly puts them in the spotlight; 2. Her successful debate career; and 3. Her grudge against the boy who ghosted her two years ago. But the return of the boy, her secret battle with Crohn’s disease, and the intensifying impact her mom’s career has on her sister’s mental health and her privacy threaten to ruin everything she has pushed so hard to gain. Part love story, part coming-of-age novel, this book is about facing your demons and being vulnerable.

This was a good book! i liked the chron's disease incorporation and representation. It seemed authentic and realistic. I also thought the anxiety representation was good. I loved Gabe and Emmy's vibes also

Thank you Netgalley and HarperCollins for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!

"Three Things About Emmy Crawford" by Allison L. Bitz is a heartwarming coming-of-age novel that has a sweet academic rivals/lovers romance while also focusing on different themes revolving around both mental health and physical health with different conditions/disabilities. Through the story of Emmy Crawford, Bitz deftly explores the complexities of family and relationships.

Emmy Crawford is a high school senior with ambitious goals despite facing numerous obstacles, including Crohn's disease and the constant media attention that comes with being the daughter of a prominent senator. Bitz paints a vivid and compelling portrait of Emmy, showcasing her strength and determination while also showcasing Emmy’s flaws as she learns to grow as both a person as well as someone living with Crohn’s disease. She learns that she can’t just ignore her problems, both in her actual life as well as her physical problems, in order to achieve her dreams. I really enjoyed Emmy’s growth in the book, especially when she learns how to take care of herself and that she doesn’t need to have the weight of both her world and her sister’s world on her shoulders.

Central to the story is Emmy's deep bond with her sister, Issy, whom she fiercely protects from stressors of her anxiety. Bitz skillfully navigates the complexities of sibling relationships; the focus of Emmy’s relationship with her sister was the highlight of the book for me, especially when as the reader see the depth in which Emmy tries to protect her sister while her sister is also trying to protect Emmy. This does lead to some misunderstands/miscommunications throughout the book, which are all thankfully cleared up in the end.

Bitz is able to bring Emmy's world to life, especially when showing the electrifying world of debate competitions; there are snippets of debate speeches within the book, which I thoroughly enjoyed as you were able to experience the characters’ perspectives, though I wish we were able to read others’ speeches, such as Gabe’s in the book. While I enjoyed the romance in the book, I think the focus family dynamics was the most important part. I didn’t like some of the miscommunications that were established and how there was basically a “love square” at some point. I was definitely more invested in the characters more than the actual romance.

Overall, "Three Things About Emmy Crawford" is an emotional read filled with self-growth and togetherness. I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and I definitely can’t wait to read more from Bitz.

I’m thinking I should have taken Lori’s recommendation of this author’s first book when she made it!!! In fact, I just went and found that book and checked it out! Because THIS book???? I cried throughout. I laughed my big white butt off. I learned about Crohn’s disease and anxiety and a bit about a senator’s life and, well, I learned about me. I have more in common with Emmy Crawford than I would have guessed, but I guess that also means I have similarities to the author. And that makes sense, since I enjoyed this book so much. It was real and strange and sweet and so so lovely in so many ways. 💜💜📚

Allison L. Bitz's "Three Things About Emmy Crawford" offers a compelling narrative of resilience and pursuit, capturing the essence of youthful determination amidst life's challenges. Set within the high-pressure world of debate competitions, the story of Emmy Crawford unfolds with gripping intensity, weaving together themes of family, friendship, and personal growth.

At its core, the novel revolves around Emmy Crawford, a high school senior whose unwavering ambition propels her forward despite the obstacles she faces. Battling Crohn's disease and the constant media scrutiny as the daughter of a prominent senator, Emmy remains resolute in her pursuit of three fundamental goals. Allison skillfully portrays Emmy's strength and resolve, creating a protagonist whose determination serves as an inspiring example to readers.

Central to the story is Emmy's deep bond with her sister, Issy, whom she fiercely protects from life's hardships. Allison delicately explores the intricacies of sibling relationships, infusing the narrative with moments of heartfelt connection and genuine emotion.

Moreover, the novel delves into Emmy's romantic entanglements, particularly her complex feelings for Gabe Castillo, a fellow debater with whom she shares a complicated history. As Emmy navigates the turbulent waters of young love while striving for victory, readers are drawn into a compelling exploration of self-discovery and emotional growth.

Allison's prose is both evocative and eloquent, painting vivid images that immerse readers in Emmy's world. From the electrifying debates to the tender moments of intimacy and vulnerability, "Three Things About Emmy Crawford" resonates with authenticity and emotional depth.

"Three Things About Emmy Crawford" is a captivating tale of resilience, determination, and love triumphing over adversity. Allison L. Bitz has crafted a compelling narrative that will linger in the hearts of readers, offering a poignant reminder of the power of perseverance and the importance of forging meaningful connections. This is a novel that will resonate with fans of contemporary YA fiction, leaving a lasting impression long after the final page is turned.