Book Summary: Better Than the Movies
Themes: Love vs. expectations, grief, self-discovery, friendship, growing up
Overview
Better Than the Movies is a heartfelt and funny young adult romance about Liz Buxbaum, a hopeless romantic who believes her life should follow the script of the romantic comedies she loves. Ever since her mother passed away, Liz has clung to rom-com fantasies as a way to stay connected to her mom and to the idea of perfect love.
When her childhood crush, Michael Young, moves back to town, Liz is convinced he is her destined happily-ever-after. The only problem? She needs help getting his attention — and the last person she wants to rely on is her annoying neighbor and long-time rival, Wes Bennett.
Plot Summary
Liz and Wes have spent years exchanging sarcastic insults and competing over everything. But when Wes offers to help Liz win Michael over, she reluctantly agrees. Their plan involves fake dates, strategic encounters, and staged “rom-com moments” designed to make Michael notice her.
As Liz spends more time with Wes, she begins to see a different side of him — thoughtful, funny, and unexpectedly kind. Their banter becomes genuine connection, and the lines between fake romance and real feelings start to blur.
Meanwhile, Liz is also navigating grief and growing up. Her love for romantic movies stems from memories of watching them with her mother, and through her journey she learns that love isn’t about recreating perfect movie moments — it’s about authenticity, vulnerability, and being seen for who you truly are.
In the end, Liz must decide whether to chase the fantasy she built in her head or embrace the real love standing right in front of her.
Main Characters
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Liz Buxbaum – A romantic dreamer coping with grief and searching for her own love story.
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Wes Bennett – Her sarcastic neighbor whose humor hides depth and loyalty.
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Michael Young – Liz’s longtime crush and symbol of her romantic ideal.
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Helena & Joss – Liz’s supportive best friends.
Themes & Messages
Love vs. Fantasy
Real love doesn’t follow a movie script — it’s messy, unexpected, and genuine.
Healing & Grief
Liz’s journey shows how memories and love can coexist with loss.
Seeing People Clearly
Sometimes the right person is the one you never considered.
Growing Up
Letting go of perfect expectations is part of finding your own story.
Book Information:
- Book Name: Better Than the Movies
- Book Author: Lynn Painter
- Book Language: English
- Reading age: 12 years and up
- Filetype: PDF
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