Mini Shopaholic
Author: Sophie Kinsella
ISBN: 9780385342049

Mini Shopaholic, the sixth installment of Sophie Kinsella’s Shopaholic series continues the story of the lovable but irrational Becky Brandon (nee Bloomwood). In this latest book, we see Becky in a different light; she’s a mom! Surely she’s given up her shopaholic ways and entered the world of motherhood and responsibility? Think again.

Becky is still the same shopping-crazed woman we knew and loved throughout the six books.

Now that Becky’s a “mum” (love the British slang throughout the book!) her life revolves around her husband Luke and her two year old daughter Minnie. Becky loves being a mom, even though the job is more difficult than she ever imagined- Minnie isn’t exactly the most well-behaved two year old. Minnie’s favorite word is, “MIIIIINEEEEE!” and she’s even been banned from stores at the mall after creating havoc. Needless to say, Becky’s hands are full.

When an economic crisis hits England and Luke’s PR firm is in charge of the mess, Becky comes up with the idea to do plan a surprise birthday party to take Luke’s mind off of work and to show him how much she appreciates him. But in true Becky fashion, nothing goes according to plan.

I’ll admit, this book didn’t immediately hook me, but once I got further into the book, I couldn’t put it down! I’m a huge fan of this series. I devoured each book before this one but this book seemed to just start off slower than the other ones. I also was immediately turned off by how bratty Becky’s daughter Minnie was (though some hilarious moments do ensue).It just didn’t seem realistic. Sure, most toddlers go through “terrible twos” and I wouldn’t expect Minnie to be an exception, but not only was she annoying, but Becky did nothing to stop it. In fact, she fueled Minnie’s ways even more by giving in to her every whim. While I’m aware that this is a book and for entertainment value is going to be over the top in some ways, I just couldn’t fully get behind how much any mother would enable her daughter at such a young age. It didn’t feel real to me and made the story less believable.

Some old and lovable characters make appearances in this latest installment. Are you a Luke lover? You’ll certainly see and hear a lot about him in this book as he keeps some of his own secrets behind Becky’s back. Can’t get enough of Becky’s best friend Suze? She definitely makes a few appearances. Playing a smaller role than I thought she would (since she had a book solely about her and her relationship with Becky) was Becky’s sister Jess. Of course, Becky’s hilarious parents play a large role in this book, as Becky and Luke currently live with them.

Though Becky certainly is crazy and at some point (six books in!) you’d think she’d learn the error of her ways, but her inability to say no to spending is what makes us love her so much. I could completely relate to some of Becky’s hilarious inner dialogue. Her scheming and planning will have you laughing out loud as you read.

Kinsella’s writing style never ceases to amaze me. I love the way the words seem to flow so effortlessly and are crafted and packaged in such a way that makes the reader keep turning the pages, while giggling to yourself along the way. You’ll definitely enjoy this easy and relaxing read!

4.5/5