Your Guide to the Holiday YA Romance: Dash & Lily's Book of Dares

With the festive season upon us, everyone is decking the halls and getting into the holiday spirit. Are you ready for some cozy reading moments, snug under a blanket with a steaming cup of cocoa? If you're on the hunt for the perfect holiday read, look no further. Let's dive into a book that seems to warm its way into the hearts of young adult (YA) readers every year: Dash & Lily's Book of Dares by Rachel Cohn and David Levithan.

Why Dash & Lily's Book of Dares is the Perfect Holiday Read

First published in 2011, Dash & Lily's Book of Dares has delighted readers for over a decade, earning its place as a holiday classic among YA novels. The book is set against the backdrop of snowy New York City in the weeks leading up to Christmas. Dash and Lily, two teenagers who have never met each other, begin communicating via a notebook full of dares and thoughts, secretly hidden within the shelves of a bookstore.

The narration alternates between Dash's and Lily's perspectives, offering insight into two highly distinct yet relatable characters. Dash, a skeptic about Christmas, finds his outlook challenged by Lily, who usually revels in holiday festivities but is experiencing doubts due to her family spending Christmas abroad this year.

A Unique Correspondence

When Dash encounters the mysterious notebook asking “Do You Dare?”, a sequence of imaginative and heartfelt dares shared through this simple artifact sparks a profound connection between them. They embark on an introspective journey, finding solace and understanding through their written exchanges.

“The magic of this story lies in its exploration of youthful connections and the courage to be open with one's emotions, all wrapped up in the whimsical spirit of the holidays.”

This narrative structure emphasizes the increasing rarity and magic of hand-written communication, reminding readers of a world beyond digital messages and social media.

An Exploration of Growth and Connection

Not only is this novel a charming tale of budding romance, but it also showcases character growth. Dash and Lily challenge each other, opening up to new ideas and experiences while reevaluating what matters most in life. Their adventure offers a refreshing take on the holiday romance by blending character development with festive themes.

Beyond the Pages: A Netflix Adaptation

Inspired by the book's success, a limited series adaptation was launched on Netflix in December 2020, starring Austin Abrams and Midori Francis. This beloved series captures the same magic, making it a must-watch for fans and newcomers alike.

For more on adapting books to television, check out this insightful original article by Emily Martin.

Expand Your Holiday Reading List

If Dash and Lily's story leaves you yearning for more literary adventures, consider diving into books with similar themes. The sequels to Dash & Lily's Book of Dares are great follow-ups that continue the duo's escapades outside the confines of the first novel.

Don Your Bookish Apparel

After indulging in these delightful stories, you might want to express your new literary obsessions through some book-inspired merch. Liam and Lore offer charming bookish apparel perfect for showcasing your love for reading while staying stylish and cozy.