Not My Problem

Asha Jameson is a high school student in Ireland who decides to start solving her classmates' problems for cash. After helping the school's most popular girl out of a tight spot, word spreads and other students begin seeking Asha's unconventional assistance. While managing her new problem-solving business, Asha faces challenges at home with her father's drinking and her mother's absence. She maintains her focus on academics and hopes to study mathematics at university, even as her side hustle grows more complex. Complications arise when Asha becomes involved with Holly, a client whose situation forces Asha to question the ethics and consequences of her enterprise. The story follows Asha as she navigates relationships, family dynamics, and the fine line between helping others and enabling them. This YA contemporary novel examines themes of responsibility, identity, and the distinction between fixing problems and truly supporting someone through them. The narrative raises questions about the costs of taking on other people's burdens while avoiding one's own.

Readers highlight the book's authentic dialogue, LGBTQ+ representation, and blend of serious themes with humor. Many note the realistic portrayal of teen friendships and family dynamics. Positives from reviews: - Sharp, witty writing style - Complex characters, especially protagonist Aideen - Natural integration of mental health topics - Strong platonic relationships alongside romance Common criticisms: - Pacing issues in middle sections - Some side characters lack development - Resolution feels rushed for certain plotlines Ratings across platforms: Goodreads: 4.0/5 (6,800+ ratings) Amazon: 4.4/5 (180+ ratings) StoryGraph: 4.1/5 (900+ ratings) Notable reader comments: "The banter between characters feels genuine and unforced" - Goodreads reviewer "Deals with heavy topics without becoming overwhelming" - Amazon review "The friendship dynamics outshine the romance" - StoryGraph user

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🌟 Author Ciara Smyth is from Belfast, Northern Ireland, and writes young adult fiction centered on LGBTQ+ characters. 📚 The main character, Aideen, uses her problem-solving skills to help fellow students in exchange for favors, similar to the plot structure of '80s teen film "The Breakfast Club." 🎓 The book tackles serious themes like domestic abuse and parental alcoholism while maintaining moments of humor and hope throughout the narrative. 🌈 "Not My Problem" was shortlisted for the 2022 KPMG Children's Books Ireland Awards and won praise for its authentic representation of teenage life in Ireland. 💫 The novel features a slow-burn romance between two female characters, with the relationship developing naturally alongside the main problem-solving plot rather than being the central focus.