Book Review: Coached

By Sara Steven

Coached, called "Fizzy and fun" by best selling author Jacquelyn Mitchard, is the story of twenty-five year old Rowen's quest for self-improvement. From her frumpy wardrobe and dead end job to her boring social life, Rowen's twenties are turning out to be quite the letdown. When her boyfriend Sherman abruptly moves away, Rowen decides it's time to take action and turn her life around. She responds to an advertisement in her local newspaper for some tough-love life-coaching by the sophisticated and stylish Ms. Crystal Class. It could prove to be exactly what Rowen needs to get out of her rut. (synopsis courtesy of Goodreads)

Here’s what I really loved about Coached: Rowen (or RoRo, as she’s known to friends and family) tells her story through the eyes of none other than....RoRo. Written in diary fashion, she takes us on her journey through the highs and lows of trying to become a better person. I couldn’t help but ask, who gets to say what “better” is, anyway?

Crystal Class, RoRo’s life coach. Through extensive counseling and training, Crystal attempts to transform RoRo into what she feels is a productive member of society. That means changing the type of music she enjoys listening to, the items she likes to to collect for her home, even her clothing and lifestyle are under intense scrutiny. RoRo goes along with it, because she wants so desperately to have what Crystal has, and to be as put together as she is.

And, as life would have it, nothing is ever as it really appears to be, and sometimes, the person who is the most put together is the one who needs the most help, and the one who seems to be chaotic is the one who really has a good grip on things.

I enjoyed the way that Coached isn’t formulaic. I was peeking into someone else’s private thoughts, really getting the goods on RoRo’s struggle, as well as her triumphs, even when she’s unable to see them. I also enjoyed the little twist at the end, and I can honestly say I didn’t see it coming. It’s My Fair Lady meets Single White Female, but only in reverse, somewhat. It was an interesting story, one that could be about any one of us who’s looking to change their lives for the "better".

Thanks to Holly Tierney-Bedord for the book in exchange for an honest review.

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