Elisa Chenoweth, Maria Petranelli is Prepared for Anything (Except This), Hardie Grant Children’s Publishing, July 2024, 320 pp., RRP $22.99 (pbk), ISBN 9781761212451
Maria Petranelli is Prepared for Anything (Except This) is Elisa Chenoweth’s latest work, following Maria Petrinelli – a young girl desperate to prove herself to her overbearing Italian-Australian family. Constantly feeling like no one takes her seriously, a comment from her family that Maria wouldn’t stand a chance in Italy prompts her to take an exchange year there. The year encompasses more adventure and unexpected turns than she ever expected. When Maria and American Exchange student Kennedy accidentally witness a murder, they embark on a journey together that reveals what Maria can and can’t handle. What’s more, Maria struggles with her identity as her new friend Kennedy makes her feel something unexpected, and she must work through her feelings before its too late.
Maria Petranelli is Prepared for Anything (Except This) is a fast paced, funny and exciting teen read. Maria’s desire to prove herself brings a powerful message of individuality and strength, and her character is one readers can’t help but enjoy hearing from. Her own naivety is often her biggest obstacle, leaving readers begging for something to go right. Furthermore, Maria’s character development gives readers something to root for, and her awkwardness and teenage angst provides viewpoint through which many of us can relate.
The story shifts, somewhat jarringly, into a crime-based thriller, allowing the brewing romance to take the backseat at times. The story is a fun balance between everyday teenage struggles and exciting adventures, sure to appeal to any teen looking for a chaotic (in a good way) read. Chenoweth’s writing style is spirited and clear – Maria’s inner monologue is a good example of Chenoweth’s clever characterisation and relaxed tone.
This is a great YA novel, that can be highly recommend to young readers looking for queer, adventure fiction. It was included on the 2025 CBCA Notable list for Older Readers.
Reviewed by Lily Pearson
