May 8, 2007

Oh, Doyle Rules!

“I Love You, Beth Cooper,” by Larry Doyle

Mom always said to speak your mind. Hold nothing back. The truth would set you free.

She added: There’s a time and place for everything.

Poor Denis Cooverman must have missed the last part. During his graduation address, the valedictorian/debate-team captain blurts out I love you, Beth Cooper. This declaration — also the title of Larry Doyle’s debut novel — would be charming, if the object of his affection were not the head cheerleader. And if said cheerleader did not have a bully for a boyfriend.

See a bloody nose in the future? Well, yes, there’s that. But when Beth and her crew show up at Denis’s doorstep, the awkward, endearing adolescent and his movie-quoting, ambiguously gay best friend are in for some adventures. Think naked coed showers, underage beer runs, and a stolen Hummer.

It’s all outlandish fun, but what do you expect from a former Simpsons writer? The teens experience one d’oh!-worthy episode after another.

As for the author, he’s hit a homer.

Available online at amazon.com or your local book store.