I'm not normally attracted to books covered in hearts and girls giggling at their shoes. I know they say not to judge a book by the cover but there's just something about that combo that makes me want to run in the opposite direction. Which is why I was slightly confused when I found that I'd purchased this book by 25-year-old Katie Heaney. Maybe it was the fact that we share a name. Or are a similar age. Or that we seem to share the same mentality when it comes to 'dating' (I hate that word). Perhaps all of those things jumped out at me before I'd even read the first page.
This book isn't going to make it into my all-time-favourite collection but I genuinely really enjoyed it. If you've ever received a sympathetic look simply because you're not in relationship, have liked someone who, let's face it, was an idiot or have been confused as to why we're all expected to pretend we don't like someone when we actually do; then you will be able to relate to this book.
Call me old fashioned, but I don't quite see the point in being in a relationship with someone unless I really like them. I used to think this was just plain old common sense but it's surprising how often I've found myself to be in the minority on this one. It's also even more surprising how many people like to make you feel rubbish about the (single) life you were, up until two minutes ago, pretty content with; usually using one of the following comments:
Aw don't worry.
I wasn't.
You're too picky.
If being picky means not wanting to share a bed with someone who makes homophobic comments and doesn't understand the concept of showering then, fine, yes I am.
You'll find someone.
I would love it if someone could explain the meaning of this one because to me, it sounds like the world's worst game of hide 'n' seek. Purpose of game: to find someone. *grabs random pensioner on the tube* Done.
Why don't you get tinder?
How long have you got?
Why don't you go out with *names your best friend*?
Why don't you go out with your brother?
You have to give people a chance.
I did. And that's why I'm now telling him to leave me the hell alone.
You'll never find someone if you choose to stay in watching TV instead of going out.
I beg to differ. If I'd chosen to go out instead of watching TV, I'd have never found David Tennant. Whatever happens in life, I will never, ever regret that discovery.
Katie Heaney has experienced all of this rubbish and has written a book about it. In a funny and thoughtful way, she takes you through her single life and dealing with being single in a world which says that, unless you have someone to hold your hand as you walk down the street, then you're failing at life. This girl gets it and it's pretty darn refreshing.
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