Perfect Chemistry by Simone Elkeles

     I have been reading the novel Perfect Chemistry. The story is about two very different teenagers, Brittany Ellis and Alejandro or Alex Fuentes. They both attend Fairfield High School in Chicago. Brittany is the popular, perfect, head cheerleader, while Alex is part of a gang called the "Latino Blood." Even though Brittany may seem like the perfect girl on the outside, she is far from perfect on the inside. She struggles at home with her family, she has an autistic sister, and her mom pressures her to do everything right. From getting straight A's, dressing in all designer clothes, and having the most popular boyfriend, her mom sets very high standards. Alex Fuentes has his own struggles as well. His family is very disfunctional. He lives in a very small home, and does not have much.
        When school starts up again, Brittany and Alex end up in the same chemistry class. The two ironically get paired up for the first project of the year. Brittany and Alex aren't the most compatible two, and aren't too thrilled about the partner arrangements. When Alex breaks his friends the news that his new chemistry partner is Brittany Ellis, they bet him his motorcycle he wouldn't be able to date her. Alex seals the deal, and challenges his friends. Brittany's boyfriend Collin isn't too happy either. He gets a bit jealous that Brittany is working with gang member Alex Fuentes. As working with Alex progresses, Brittany starts to see the soft and sweet side of this Latino Blood gang member. But is Alex acting this way on purpose, to save his motorcycle? Or does he really have a soft side? The results of Alex and Brittany working together are very surprising. Will they end up together? Find out and read Perfect Chemistry!