THANKS FOR THE TROUBLE by Tommy Wallach is a story about firsts and lasts loves. With an incredible storyline and relatable characters, this book is a nonstop read. Wallach, the celebrated author of WE ALL LOOKED UP, poignantly pens a novel that is sure to become an instant favorite among many. It is best described as a touching reminder of the fragility of life, truth and, of course, love. Interestingly enough, the story really takes place in the past, the future, and the present -- in that order. It was also a story about promises, and the pursuit of keeping them. Nearly poetically written, Wallach’s writing gives the story a realistic feel. Zelda and Parker, our two main protagonists, become intertwined by fate to complete their own objectives --- all in very amusing ways.

"Incredibly insightful and poetic, this book is sure to be quoted more frequently than not."

Parke Sante hasn’t spoken in years. With a shattered past and hardly any friends to hang out with, he spends his time at hotels, a pickpocketer’s paradise. He finds solace in stealing the material items of the opulent hotel guests. Then one day he is caught. By mistake, or more like destiny, he leaves his notebook in the middle of his heist after snatching an envelope holding an unimaginable sum of money. His notebook is his everything --- his communication device and journal where he creatively engineers fantastic stories. He has no choice but to go back in shame, instantly forming an unlikely relationship with Zelda after a back-and-forth written and verbal communication. She is a silver-haired girl who is just as odd and broken as he is. Together, they form the dynamic duo that goes on an adventure of a lifetime.

Like magic, this story left me in awe. I have never been thoroughly impressed with a book that more resembled a piece of art. Incredibly insightful and poetic, this book is sure to be quoted more frequently than not. I would really recommend everyone to read it, as its universal messages of purpose, friendship, and finding the beauty in yourself is always a lesson worth sharing. Moreover, I think teenagers and people who like adventure would get more out of THANKS FOR THE TROUBLE.