When you go to a library or stop by a bookstore, you can pick exactly what you want to read. But when you open the door to a Little Free Library, there’s no way to predict what’s inside. There’s something special about how limited choices can drive us to pick up an unexpected book.
Mirror Indy’s staff members are picking random titles from different Little Free Libraries around Indianapolis and reviewing it. We’ll share these every few weeks until the end of the year.
Want to join in on the fun? Find a book you want to review in a Little Free Library in Indianapolis, then reach out to sophie.young@mirrorindy.org. We’ll send you six fun questions to answer, and then we’ll publish your review.
“The Naked Roommate: And 107 Other Issues You Might Run Into in College”
Reviewed by:
Found at: IU Indianapolis, second floor of Cavanaugh Hall
Author: Harlan Cohen
Genre: Self-help
Year published: 2005
What condition is this book in?
Perfect condition, with an autograph to “Lisa” on the title page. Sorry in advance, Lisa.
How many stars would you give it?
This book would make a good coaster (two stars)
Most interesting sentence or piece of dialogue:
“When finding yourself living with a naked roommate … request that there is no eating in the nude (for your health and his or her safety — cheese pizza can be hot and dangerous).”
Three-word description of the story.
TMCI: Too much (college) information.
This book made me feel:
Old.
If I could rename this book, I’d call it:
“College: I Pinky Promise You’ll Figure It Out.” Cohen’s advice is generally OK and even sometimes helpful (despite this book being old enough to order a beer).
But, to my college freshmen out there: You will be OK! If you were asking me for advice, I’d tell you not to be afraid to ask for help from friends, professors, counselors, mentors and even Harlan Cohen, if that’s your thing. You’re not in this alone.
Also, I want to shout out to all my former roommates for having a healthy relationship with clothing in shared spaces. Love y’all.
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