Cecily von Ziegesar
Class [previously published as Cum Laude]
Hyperion (US: 2nd AUgust 2011)
Buy (US) Buy (UK) Buy (CA) Buy (Worldwide)
Class was originally published as Cum Laude, but retitled for obvious reasons – for eejits like me who don’t know Latin or university stuff, and giggle at certain filthy-sounding words. We can all agree that Class is a much better title.
This is a standalone, but at first it’s difficult not to be reminded of Cecily von Ziegesar’s famous Gossip Girl series. Shipley Gilbert is such a Serena, and she’s kind of boring compared to the other characters. Her roommate Eliza is much sparkier, often greeting Shipley with, “Hey, Slutcakes.” And Tragedy Gatz has personality galore.
The real humour comes from the male characters: Tom’s adventures in ecstasy, ether, art, and acting are hilarious, and Nick’s pot-smoking yurt haven is pretty funny, too.
It’s a forgettable novel, but fun while it lasts.
P.S. Why is the story set in 1992?
