A Balanced Critique of “Not Here to Be Liked” by Michelle Quach
“Not Here to Be Liked” by Michelle Quach is a contemporary young adult novel that explores themes of feminism, identity, and the complexities of teenage relationships. The story revolves around Eliza Quan, a high-achieving student and dedicated journalist, who finds herself unexpectedly embroiled in a battle for the position of editor-in-chief of her school newspaper against Len DiMartile, a charismatic ex-jock. Quach’s debut novel offers a thoughtful exploration of gender dynamics and personal growth, though it is not without its flaws. This critique will examine the strengths and weaknesses of the book, providing a balanced perspective on its impact and execution.
Engaging and Relatable Protagonist
Eliza Quan, the protagonist of “Not Here to Be Liked,” is a compelling character whose struggles and ambitions resonate with many readers. Her dedication to journalism and her frustration with gender biases are portrayed with authenticity and depth. Eliza’s journey from a single-minded focus on her career to a more nuanced understanding of herself and her peers is well-developed and relatable. Her internal conflicts and moments of vulnerability make her a three-dimensional character that readers can root for.
Quach does an excellent job of capturing the voice of a high school student who is both ambitious and self-critical. Eliza’s determination to succeed and her desire to be respected for her skills rather than her appearance or likability are themes that many young readers, especially those striving for academic and extracurricular excellence, can identify with. The author also infuses Eliza with a dry wit and a sense of humor that lightens the narrative and makes her even more endearing.
Exploration of Feminism and Gender Bias
One of the book’s primary strengths is its exploration of feminism and gender bias. Eliza’s experiences with sexism, both overt and subtle, are depicted in a way that feels genuine and thought-provoking. The novel tackles issues such as the double standards women face in leadership positions and the societal expectations placed on girls to be likable and accommodating.
Eliza’s viral essay on misogyny, which inadvertently sparks a feminist movement at her school, serves as a catalyst for important discussions about gender equality. Quach skillfully navigates these themes without becoming overly didactic, allowing readers to engage with the material and reflect on their own experiences and beliefs. The book’s portrayal of a young woman grappling with the complexities of feminism and her place in the movement is both timely and impactful.
Realistic Depiction of High School Dynamics
The high school setting in “Not Here to Be Liked” is portrayed with authenticity and attention to detail. The various social hierarchies, extracurricular activities, and academic pressures are depicted realistically, providing a rich backdrop for the story. The dynamics within the school newspaper, with its mix of dedicated writers, photographers, and editors, add depth to the narrative and highlight the collaborative nature of journalism.
Quach also captures the intensity of high school relationships, from friendships to romantic entanglements. Eliza’s interactions with her peers, particularly her evolving relationship with Len, are nuanced and believable. The author avoids clichéd portrayals of high school life, instead offering a more complex and layered depiction of teenage experiences.
Diverse Representation
“Not Here to Be Liked” features a diverse cast of characters, reflecting the multicultural reality of many contemporary high schools. Eliza’s Vietnamese-Chinese heritage is an integral part of her identity, and Quach weaves cultural elements into the narrative seamlessly. The book also includes characters from various racial and ethnic backgrounds, as well as different socioeconomic statuses, adding richness and authenticity to the story.
The representation of diverse identities and experiences is a significant strength of the novel. Quach handles these elements with sensitivity and care, avoiding stereotypes and ensuring that each character is fully realized. This inclusivity not only enhances the story but also provides readers with the opportunity to see themselves reflected in the characters and their experiences.
Predictable Plot Elements
While “Not Here to Be Liked” is engaging and thought-provoking, some aspects of the plot are predictable and adhere to familiar tropes of the young adult genre. The central conflict between Eliza and Len follows a somewhat conventional enemies-to-lovers trajectory, which, although enjoyable, may feel formulaic to seasoned readers of YA fiction. The resolution of their rivalry, which sees them moving from antagonism to mutual respect and romantic interest, unfolds in a manner that can be anticipated from early on in the story.
Additionally, the plot twist involving Eliza’s viral essay and the subsequent feminist movement at her school, while compelling, follows a predictable pattern of unintended consequences leading to personal growth and societal change. While these elements are well-executed, they lack the originality that might elevate the novel to a standout status within the genre.
Underdeveloped Supporting Characters
While Eliza and Len are well-developed and dynamic characters, some of the supporting cast members lack the same depth and complexity. Characters such as Eliza’s sister Kim, her best friend Winona, and other members of the school newspaper staff could have benefited from more detailed backstories and greater development. These characters often serve specific roles within the narrative but do not always feel fully fleshed out or integral to the story’s emotional core.
For instance, Winona, who is portrayed as Eliza’s closest confidante, remains somewhat underexplored. Her own motivations, struggles, and growth are not given the same attention as Eliza’s, making her feel more like a supporting player than a fully realized individual. Similarly, other members of the school newspaper, who could have added layers to the story’s exploration of journalism and teamwork, are sometimes relegated to the background.
Pacing Issues
The pacing of “Not Here to Be Liked” can be uneven at times. The novel’s opening chapters are engaging and set up the central conflict effectively, but the middle sections of the book occasionally feel slow and repetitive. Some scenes and interactions, particularly those involving Eliza’s internal monologues and her reflections on her feminist beliefs, could have been more concise to maintain the narrative momentum.
Conversely, the resolution of the story feels somewhat rushed. The climax and denouement unfold quickly, leaving little time for the characters to fully process and react to the events that have transpired. This rapid pacing can diminish the emotional impact of the story’s conclusion and leave readers wanting more resolution and reflection from the characters.
Conclusion
“Not Here to Be Liked” by Michelle Quach is a thoughtful and engaging young adult novel that tackles important themes of feminism, identity, and high school dynamics. Eliza Quan is a relatable and compelling protagonist whose journey of self-discovery and empowerment resonates with readers. The book’s exploration of gender bias and its realistic depiction of high school life are significant strengths, as is its commitment to diverse representation.
However, the novel is not without its flaws. Predictable plot elements, underdeveloped supporting characters, and pacing issues detract from its overall impact. Despite these weaknesses, “Not Here to Be Liked” remains a valuable contribution to contemporary YA literature, offering a nuanced perspective on the challenges and triumphs of young women navigating a complex world.
Ultimately, Michelle Quach’s debut novel succeeds in sparking important conversations about feminism and personal growth, even as it adheres to some familiar genre conventions. “Not Here to Be Liked” is a commendable effort that promises further depth and complexity in Quach’s future works.
