What are Tobey's aspirations for his senior year?

Tobey's senior year goals revolve around winning the Battle of the Bands competition with his group and, more personally, making Sara fall deeply in love with him. He sees her as 'The One' and is determined to win her affection despite his 'slacker rock-star wannabe' persona.

Who is Dave, and how does he complicate the initial romance between Sara and Tobey?

Dave is a popular jock who quickly expresses interest in Sara, moving in on her before Tobey can make significant progress. His presence creates an initial romantic obstacle, making Sara consider him as a potential boyfriend and adding a layer of competition for Tobey.

What qualities does Sara find appealing about Tobey?

Sara is drawn to Tobey's quirky wit and his expressive big blue eyes, which she finds hard to ignore. More importantly, she appreciates that he 'gets the little things that matter to her,' indicating a deeper emotional understanding and connection than she finds with others.

How does the narrative structure contribute to the reader's understanding of the characters?

The novel is told through the authentic, alternating voices of Tobey and Sara, providing readers with direct access to their individual thoughts, feelings, and perspectives. This dual point-of-view allows for a comprehensive understanding of their motivations, insecurities, and evolving perceptions of each other.

What is the significance of the 'Battle of the Bands' for Tobey beyond just winning?

For Tobey, the Battle of the Bands represents more than just a musical victory; it's a validation of his passion and identity as a musician. It also serves as a platform to impress Sara and prove his dedication, tying into his larger goal of winning her heart and showing his commitment to his dreams.

Are there any subtle indications that Sara was always leaning towards Tobey, even when Dave was in the picture?

Yes, Sara's internal monologue often highlights Tobey's unique qualities and how he understands her 'little things,' suggesting a deeper, more authentic connection than she feels with Dave. Her continued observations of Tobey, even when seemingly with Dave, hint at her true romantic inclinations.

How do Tobey's 'slacker' tendencies actually work in his favor with Sara?

Tobey's 'slacker' persona, while seemingly a disadvantage, often translates into a relaxed, unpretentious demeanor that Sara finds refreshing compared to more conventional or image-conscious guys like Dave. His genuine, quirky nature stands out and allows for a more authentic connection with her.

What role does communication play in the eventual success of Sara and Tobey's relationship?

Effective communication, particularly their ability to share their true feelings and 'get' each other, is central to their relationship's success. Their authentic voices and willingness to be vulnerable with each other, especially as they navigate misunderstandings and external pressures, solidifies their bond.

How does Sara's pursuit of a 'top college' reflect her broader psychological need for control or validation?

Sara's intense focus on a top college likely stems from a psychological need for external validation, a desire to prove her intelligence and worth through academic achievement. It could also reflect a need for control over her future, seeking certainty in a period of emotional uncertainty.

Analyze Tobey's 'rock-star wannabe' identity as a coping mechanism or an authentic expression of self.

Tobey's 'rock-star wannabe' identity is more an authentic expression of his passion and creativity than a mere coping mechanism. While it might offer an escape, it primarily reflects his true self, providing him with purpose and a unique way to connect with the world and express his emotions, particularly his feelings for Sara.

How do societal expectations for high school relationships influence Sara's initial choices?

Societal expectations, particularly the allure of popularity and conventional attractiveness embodied by Dave, likely influence Sara's initial consideration of him. She might feel pressure to conform to what's considered 'normal' or 'desirable' in a high school relationship before realizing her true connection lies elsewhere.

What psychological journey does Sara undergo regarding her definition of 'true love'?

Sara's journey involves a re-evaluation of 'true love,' moving from perhaps a more superficial or idealized notion (influenced by societal norms or initial attraction to Dave) to recognizing a deeper, more authentic connection based on understanding, shared humor, and emotional intimacy with Tobey. She learns that true love isn't always packaged perfectly.

Is Tobey's immediate conviction that Sara is 'The One' a sign of genuine insight or youthful idealism?

Tobey's immediate conviction is likely a blend of both youthful idealism and genuine insight. While young love often involves intense, immediate feelings, his ability to 'get' the little things that matter to Sara suggests a deeper, intuitive understanding that transcends mere infatuation, hinting at a true connection.

Does the novel suggest that academic success and romantic fulfillment are mutually exclusive for Sara?

The novel does not suggest they are mutually exclusive. Instead, it portrays Sara learning to balance both. While her academic goals are paramount, her journey with Tobey shows that finding romantic fulfillment can coexist with, and even complement, her personal growth and pursuit of higher education, rather than detracting from it.

How does the author use the 'little things' to build the emotional depth of the relationship?

The author uses the 'little things' to illustrate the profound emotional understanding and compatibility between Sara and Tobey. These small gestures, shared jokes, or subtle acknowledgements demonstrate that they truly see and appreciate each other on a deeper level than superficial attractions, building a more resilient and meaningful bond.

Could Dave be considered a necessary catalyst for Sara to fully appreciate Tobey?

Yes, Dave serves as a necessary catalyst. His presence provides a contrasting option, allowing Sara to experience a more conventional relationship and, through that experience, recognize what she truly values in a partner. His role highlights Tobey's unique qualities and deepens Sara's appreciation for him.

What message does the book convey about challenging stereotypes in high school romance?

The book challenges stereotypes by portraying a 'class brain' falling for a 'slacker rock-star wannabe,' defying typical expectations of who should end up together. It emphasizes that genuine connection and understanding, rather than social status or pre-conceived notions, are the true foundations of lasting love.

In what ways does the novel explore the theme of authenticity in young adult relationships?

The novel deeply explores authenticity through its dual perspectives, showing how Sara and Tobey are their true selves with each other. It contrasts their genuine connection with the more superficial or image-driven interactions Sara might have with others, highlighting the importance of being real and understood in a relationship.

When It Happens Summary by Susane Colasanti | BookBrief

Name: When It Happens
Availability: InStock
Rating: 3.75 (35638 reviews)
ISBN: 9780670060290

As senior year begins, a smart girl's search for true love and a top college conflicts with a slacker musician's pursuit of her heart, even as a popular jock tries to win her over.

Synopsis

Sara starts her senior year with clear goals: getting into a good college and finding true love. Tobey, a musician, also has senior year plans: winning the Battle of the Bands and getting Sara to like him. Their paths cross, but a popular jock, Dave Miller, first catches Sara's eye. As Dave tries to win her over, Tobey quietly tries to connect with Sara, sharing moments that show he understands her. Sara eventually grows tired of Dave's lack of interest and breaks up with him. Tobey, though nervous, takes his chance, and he and Sara go on their first date, starting something new. They handle senior year together, supporting each other through college choices, the Battle of the Bands, prom, and graduation, ultimately finding the love they both wanted.

Reading time

360 min

Difficulty

Easy

Pacing

Moderate

Mood

Heartwarming, Hopeful, Romantic, Authentic

✓ Read this if...

You enjoy sweet, authentic young adult romances with alternating perspectives and a focus on the emotional journey of first love.

✗ Skip this if...

You prefer high-stakes drama or complex plotlines over character-driven, feel-good romance.

Plot Summary

Senior Year Begins

Sara and Tobey start their senior year at North Shore High. Sara focuses on school and getting into NYU, feeling pressure from her parents to keep her grades up. She also secretly hopes to find 'the one' before graduation. Tobey, however, cares more about his band, The Uncommons, winning the Battle of the Bands and, more importantly, getting Sara to fall for him. He has liked Sara since freshman year but never acted on it. They often see each other through friends like Ashley and Adam, but a romantic link seems far off as Dave Miller, a popular new transfer student and football player, quickly pursues Sara.

Dave Miller's Pursuit

Dave Miller, the new jock, immediately focuses on Sara. He is charming, popular, and persistent, always asking Sara out and giving her attention. Sara, flattered by attention from someone so popular, starts dating him, despite her initial doubts about his lack of intellectual depth compared to her own interests. Tobey watches this from a distance, feeling both jealous and sad. He tells his best friend, Adam, about his feelings for Sara, and Adam encourages him to make a move. But Tobey feels nervous because of Dave and Sara's clear interest in him. He tries to subtly get Sara's attention, but Dave often overshadows his efforts.

Tobey's Subtle Attempts and Shared Moments

Even though Sara is dating Dave, Tobey keeps finding ways to talk to her. He sees her reading 'Catcher in the Rye' and starts a conversation, sharing his own love for classic books. He also helps her with her English homework, showing his intelligence and humor, which surprises Sara. These small, intellectual connections begin to change Sara's view of Tobey as just a musician. They talk about their favorite bands and music, showing a deeper compatibility that she does not find with Dave. These brief talks make Sara start to see Tobey differently, beyond first impressions.

The Uncommons' Gig and Dave's Disinterest

Sara, interested in Tobey and his band, decides to go to one of The Uncommons' practices, encouraged by Ashley. She is impressed by Tobey's talent and passion for music. Later, she has an important date with Dave where she tries to talk about her college plans and her interest in photography, but he shows little real interest, often interrupting or changing the subject to himself or football. This difference between Dave's self-focus and Tobey's genuine interest in their previous talks becomes very clear to Sara. It makes her question the depth and future of her relationship with Dave. She starts to feel a growing distance from Dave and a subtle pull toward Tobey.

Sara's Doubts and Breakup with Dave

Sara's doubts about Dave grow stronger. She realizes they have little in common beyond surface-level attractions. His lack of interest in her intellectual pursuits and his shallow conversations make her feel unfulfilled. After a particularly frustrating date where Dave puts his friends and football before her, Sara decides to break up with him. The breakup is friendly but firm, as Sara understands she needs someone who truly understands and supports her. This decision is a big moment for Sara, opening her to the idea of a different kind of relationship, one built on deeper connection and shared values.

Tobey's Hesitation and Sara's Vulnerability

After breaking up with Dave, Sara feels free but also a bit awkward around Tobey, knowing he has liked her for a long time. Tobey, happy that Sara is single, struggles with the confidence to make a clear move. He is afraid of rejection and of ruining their growing friendship. Sara, however, becomes more open and vulnerable with Tobey, telling him about her college worries and her desire for a meaningful connection. She subtly hints at her interest, trying to encourage Tobey to act, but he remains hesitant, overthinking every interaction and fearing he is not 'good enough' for her.

The First Date and a New Beginning

Encouraged by Adam and after much thought, Tobey finally finds the courage to ask Sara on a real date. Sara, relieved and excited, says yes. Their first date is a success, filled with easy talk, laughter, and a clear connection that had been growing between them. They visit a bookstore, talk about their dreams, and share a genuine bond that feels natural and effortless. This date confirms to both Sara and Tobey that their feelings are mutual and that they understand each other deeply. It marks the official start of their romantic relationship, fulfilling Tobey's long-held wish and Sara's desire for true love.

Navigating Senior Year Together

As their relationship grows, Sara and Tobey become each other's main support. Sara helps Tobey with his college applications, pushing him to take his future seriously, while Tobey gives Sara a needed emotional outlet for her stress about grades and NYU. They go to each other's events: Sara is always at The Uncommons' gigs, cheering them on, and Tobey supports Sara through her school pressures. Their relationship is built on mutual respect and encouragement, showing they can balance their individual goals with their shared love. They prove that their different personalities fit together perfectly, making them stronger.

The Battle of the Bands

The much-anticipated Battle of the Bands arrives. The Uncommons, with Tobey on guitar and vocals, give a strong and passionate performance. Sara is in the audience, proud and admiring Tobey. The band puts their heart into their music, driven by their shared dream and Tobey's wish to impress Sara. While the competition's outcome is important, the performance itself shows Tobey's dedication and talent, strengthening Sara's belief in him and their future together. The music becomes a symbol of their connection, raw and real.

College Decisions and Future Plans

The final college decisions arrive. Sara gets into NYU, her dream school, bringing great relief and joy. Tobey, though not aiming for an Ivy League, also gets accepted and plans to attend a local college with a good music program. This ensures he can keep following his passion while staying relatively close to Sara. They talk about their future, acknowledging the challenges of a long-distance relationship but committing to making it work. Their shared vision for the future, both alone and as a couple, strengthens their bond, showing their maturity and dedication to each other. They know their love is strong enough for the changes ahead.

Prom Night and Graduation

Sara and Tobey go to prom together, a big event of their senior year. They have a romantic evening, dancing and celebrating their journey. This night represents the end of their high school experience and the strength of their relationship. Soon after, they graduate, marking the close of one chapter and the start of another. Their graduation is not just a personal achievement but a shared one, as they supported each other every step of the way. As they get ready for college, they look forward to the future with hope and a deep, steady love for each other, ready for what comes next.

Principal Figures

Sara

The Protagonist

Sara learns to trust her instincts about what she truly values in a relationship, moving from superficial attraction to a deep, intellectual, and emotional connection with Tobey.

Tobey

The Protagonist

Tobey overcomes his self-doubt and fear of rejection to actively pursue Sara, ultimately winning her heart and growing in confidence both personally and musically.

Dave Miller

The Antagonist/Supporting

Dave serves as a catalyst for Sara's realization of what she truly seeks in a partner, ultimately being left behind as she grows.

Adam

The Supporting

Adam remains a steadfast friend, his primary role being to support Tobey's romantic and musical aspirations.

Ashley

The Supporting

Ashley remains a consistent and supportive friend, helping Sara navigate her romantic decisions.

Sara's Parents

The Mentioned/Supporting

Their influence remains constant, serving as a backdrop to Sara's academic pressures rather than undergoing significant change.

Themes & Insights

The Search for Authentic Connection

The novel shows the difference between surface attraction and real, intellectual, and emotional connection. Sara first dates Dave because he is popular and good-looking, but she soon realizes they lack shared interests and deep conversations. She finds a true connection with Tobey, who understands her love for books, supports her goals, and truly listens to her. This theme is clear in Sara's thoughts, where she compares her unfulfilling dates with Dave to the easy, interesting talks she has with Tobey, showing that shared values and understanding are more important than looks. Their connection is built on shared interests like music and books, and mutual respect for each other's dreams.

“He just... gets me. He knows what I'm thinking before I even say it.”

Overcoming Insecurity and Self-Doubt

Both Sara and Tobey deal with significant self-doubt. Sara, despite her academic skills, worries about finding true love and fitting in, and at first doubts her feelings about Dave. Tobey, despite his talent and humor, is held back by self-doubt about being worthy of Sara's affection, especially when competing with someone popular like Dave. His journey involves finding the courage to express his feelings and believe he deserves her love. This is clearly shown in Tobey's constant inner struggles about whether to approach Sara, fearing rejection and feeling less than Dave, until Adam's encouragement helps him take a chance.

“What if she just thinks I'm some slacker who plays guitar? She deserves so much more.”

Balancing Personal Ambition and Love

The story looks at how high school seniors balance their personal goals — like Sara's desire for NYU and Tobey's dream of winning Battle of the Bands — with their new romantic relationships. The characters learn that true love does not take away from these goals but instead supports and improves them. Sara and Tobey actively encourage each other's academic and musical pursuits, proving that a strong relationship can be a source of strength rather than a distraction. Sara helps Tobey with college applications, and Tobey consistently cheers on Sara's academic achievements, showing how their individual paths are made better by their shared journey.

“It's like we make each other better, without even trying.”

The Pressure of Senior Year

The novel clearly shows the intense pressure high school seniors face, especially regarding college applications and the unknown future. Sara feels great pressure from her parents and herself to get into a top university, causing stress and worry. This background affects her choices and her search for stability and connection. Tobey, though less focused on academics, faces pressure from his band and the desire to define his path after high school. The senior year setting creates a natural tension, as characters handle both personal growth and important life decisions.

“Every day felt like a countdown, a ticking clock towards a future I wasn't entirely sure I was ready for.”

Plot Devices & Literary Techniques

Dual Perspective Narration

Alternating chapters from Sara's and Tobey's viewpoints.

The story is told through alternating first-person perspectives of Sara and Tobey. This device allows readers deep insight into both protagonists' thoughts, insecurities, and motivations. It builds dramatic irony as the audience often knows what one character is thinking or feeling about the other, even when the characters themselves are oblivious. This enhances the romantic tension and allows for a more nuanced exploration of their individual journeys and their evolving relationship, showing how their perceptions of each other shift over time.

The 'Battle of the Bands'

A recurring event that serves as Tobey's personal and romantic goal.

The Battle of the Bands competition is a significant plot device for Tobey. It provides him with a concrete goal and a platform to showcase his passion and talent, which ultimately helps him gain confidence and impress Sara. It acts as a timeline marker in the story, building anticipation and providing a setting for key emotional moments. The band's progress and performance mirror Tobey's personal growth, especially in his pursuit of Sara, making it a symbolic as well as literal event.

Literary References

Shared appreciation for books and authors, particularly 'Catcher in the Rye'.

The shared love for literature, particularly a discussion about 'Catcher in the Rye,' acts as a subtle but powerful plot device. It highlights the intellectual connection between Sara and Tobey, a connection she explicitly lacks with Dave. These references serve as early indicators of their compatibility and provide a common ground for their conversations, allowing them to bond over deeper interests beyond superficial high school interactions. It subtly signals to Sara that Tobey 'gets' her in a way others don't.

The 'Meet-Cute' (Delayed Recognition)

The protagonists have known each other for years, but their romantic potential is only realized in senior year.

While not a traditional 'meet-cute,' the device functions similarly by creating a 'delayed recognition' of romantic potential. Sara and Tobey have been classmates and mutual acquaintances for years, but it's only in their senior year, under the pressure of defining their futures, that they truly 'see' each other as romantic partners. This allows for a rich backstory of unspoken feelings and observations, adding depth to their eventual connection and making their coming together feel earned and inevitable rather than sudden.

Critical analysis

Notable Quotes

“I didn't know what to do, so I did what I always do when I don't know what to do: I pretended I knew exactly what I was doing.”

— Sarah's internal monologue when faced with an unexpected situation with Jon.

“Sometimes you have to break a few rules to find out what you're really capable of.”

— Jon encouraging Sarah to step outside her comfort zone.

“The best kind of adventures are the ones you don't plan for.”

— Jon reflecting on their spontaneous outings.

“It's funny how someone can come into your life and completely rearrange it without even trying.”

— Sarah's thoughts on how Jon has changed her perspective.

“Maybe the scariest thing isn't falling, but realizing you're okay when you do.”

— Sarah contemplating her fears and resilience.

“You can't live your life waiting for things to be perfect. Sometimes you just have to jump.”

— A moment where Sarah is hesitant and Jon pushes her forward.

“He looked at me like I was the only thing in the world worth seeing, and for a moment, I believed him.”

— Sarah describing a significant look from Jon.

“The hardest part about saying goodbye isn't the leaving, it's remembering what you're leaving behind.”

— Sarah's internal thoughts on the pain of separation.

“Sometimes the greatest lessons are learned when you're completely lost.”

— Sarah reflecting on moments of confusion and uncertainty.

“It wasn't a fairy tale, but it was real, and sometimes real was even better.”

— Sarah's realization about the nature of her relationship with Jon.

“We were two different pieces of a puzzle that somehow fit perfectly together.”

— Sarah describing her connection with Jon.

“You don't always get to choose when things happen, but you do get to choose how you react.”

— A piece of advice given to Sarah about dealing with life's surprises.

“And just like that, everything changed. Not with a bang, but with a whisper.”

— Sarah's observation on a subtle but significant shift in her life.

“He made me feel brave, even when I was terrified.”

— Sarah reflecting on Jon's influence on her courage.

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Key Questions (FAQ)

At the start of her senior year, Sara is focused on two main objectives: gaining admission to a prestigious, top-tier college and finding a genuine, true love connection. She is a 'class brain' who values both academic success and emotional fulfillment.

About the author

Susane Colasanti

Biography coming soon.

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