Synopsis
Covers the whole plot, including the ending.
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Pacing
- Moderate
- Mood
- Heartwarming, Sweet, Romantic, Lighthearted
- Read it if
- You love sweet, charming young adult romances with a focus on first love, quirky characters, and a touch of fashion.
- Skip it if
- You prefer high-stakes drama, complex plots, or dislike love triangles.
Lola and the Boy Next Door Plot Summary
Covers the whole plot, including the ending.
The Return of the Bell Twins
Lola Nolan, an aspiring costume designer who likes elaborate outfits, lives what seems to be a perfect life in San Francisco. She has two dads, Andy and Nathan, and a rockstar boyfriend, Max. Her biggest worry is designing costumes for her school play. But her world changes when the Bell twins, Calliope and Cricket, move back next door after two years. Lola has a complicated past with them, especially Cricket, who was her best friend and crush before a painful fight. Their return brings back many memories and unresolved feelings, threatening her current life.
Awkward Reintroductions and Lingering Feelings
Lola tries to avoid them, but they live too close. She has an awkward meeting with Cricket at a neighborhood barbecue, where old bad feelings and misunderstandings come up. Lola remembers the painful event two years ago when Cricket, without explanation, stopped talking to her after she told him her feelings. Now, Cricket is quieter, but his intelligence and kindness are still clear. Lola tries to keep her distance, stressing her commitment to Max, but Cricket's constant presence next door, along with their shared history, makes it hard for her to ignore her resurfacing feelings for him.
Max's Jealousy and Lola's Doubts
Max, Lola's older rockstar boyfriend, quickly notices Cricket and his history with Lola. His jealousy and possessiveness start to show, causing problems in their relationship. Max's band, The Undead, is getting popular, and he often puts his music and friends before Lola, making her feel ignored. Lola compares Max's self-centeredness to Cricket's quiet understanding and support. She questions if her relationship with Max is what she wants, especially as she talks to Cricket more often and sees a deeper connection than she has with Max.
A Shared Project and Growing Closeness
Lola and Cricket are assigned to work together on a school project: building a float for the winter festival. This work gives them a chance to spend time together, talk, and slowly fix their past. Cricket, an inventor, offers practical help and new ideas, fitting well with Lola's artistic vision for the float. During their work, they share childhood memories, laugh, and tell each other things, slowly breaking down the walls between them. Lola starts to see the kind, thoughtful boy she once loved, and Cricket begins to talk about his experiences and feelings.
The Truth About the Past
During one of their late-night work sessions on the float, Lola asks Cricket why he disappeared two years ago. Cricket, at first hesitant, finally tells her the truth: his parents had found out about Lola's crush on him and, not liking her style and the possible distraction, had forbidden him from seeing or speaking to her. They had taken his phone and laptop, cutting off all contact. This makes Lola realize that Cricket did not just abandon her, and she understands his past situation and the sacrifices he made, clearing the air and making their bond stronger.
Max's Ultimatum and Lola's Decision
As Lola and Cricket get closer, Max gets more insecure. He tells Lola she must stop seeing Cricket, accusing her of betraying him. Lola, tired of Max's possessiveness and the feeling that he does not understand her, realizes her relationship with him is no longer good. She sees how Max's actions differ from Cricket's steady support and real affection. This conflict makes Lola face her feelings for both boys and make a hard but necessary decision about her romantic future. She decides to end things with Max, understanding their paths are different.
The Winter Festival and a Confession
The winter festival happens, and Lola's costume designs for the school play are a success, as is the float she and Cricket designed. It is a happy time, but Lola is still dealing with breaking up with Max and the uncertainty about her future with Cricket. During the festival, Lola and Cricket have a quiet moment away from the crowds. They talk about their feelings, the past, and their hopes for the future. Cricket, always thoughtful, shows his deep affection for Lola, and Lola, finally free from her past commitments, admits her lasting love for him, which leads to their first real kiss.
Facing Parents and Future
With their feelings open, Lola and Cricket begin their new relationship. They need to convince Cricket's conservative parents, who still have doubts about Lola's style and her effect on Cricket. But Cricket stands up for Lola and their relationship, showing his maturity and commitment. Lola's dads support her happiness. They also talk about their dreams and future plans, with Cricket aiming for MIT and Lola wanting to pursue costume design. Despite uncertainties, they want to make their relationship work, finding strength in their shared history and deep connection.
Prom Night and a New Beginning
Lola puts her effort into designing her prom dress, a unique creation that shows her personality and self-discovery. Prom night arrives, and Lola and Cricket go as a couple, happy and confident. They dance, share moments, and celebrate their love, now fully accepted. The night means a new start for them, free from past misunderstandings and outside pressures. As the story ends, Lola and Cricket are together, facing the future with hope, ready to support each other through their paths, showing their lasting love story.
Principal Figures
Lola Nolan
Protagonist
A vibrant and artistic costume designer navigating first love and self-acceptance.
Lola is a seventeen-year-old aspiring costume designer with a distinctive, eclectic style, often seen in wigs and outrageous outfits. She lives with her two gay fathers, Andy and Nathan, in San Francisco. Lola is passionate, creative, and initially believes she has her life perfectly figured out with her rockstar boyfriend, Max. However, the return of Cricket Bell forces her to confront unresolved feelings, past insecurities, and the true nature of love and self-acceptance. She grapples with societal expectations versus her authentic self.
Relationships: Cricket Bell (Childhood best friend and first love, later boyfriend); Max (Older, rockstar boyfriend); Andy and Nathan (Her loving adoptive fathers); Calliope Bell (Cricket's twin sister, childhood acquaintance)
Cricket Bell
Love Interest
Lola's quiet, intelligent childhood friend and gifted inventor, who returns to challenge her world.
Cricket is Lola's childhood best friend and first crush, who moves back next door after two years away. He is intelligent, thoughtful, and a talented inventor, often creating complex gadgets. Unlike Lola's flamboyant personality, Cricket is more reserved and introverted. He carries the weight of past misunderstandings with Lola, stemming from his parents' interference. Cricket is kind, patient, and deeply cares for Lola, providing a stable and understanding presence that contrasts with Max's volatile nature. He represents a genuine, enduring love.
Relationships: Lola Nolan (Childhood best friend and first love, later girlfriend); Calliope Bell (His twin sister); His Parents (Strict, traditional, somewhat disapproving)
Max
Supporting/Antagonist
Lola's older, charismatic rockstar boyfriend whose jealousy and possessiveness cause strain.
Max is Lola's boyfriend at the beginning of the book, a charismatic lead singer of a local rock band, The Undead. He is older than Lola, confident, and initially seems to embody the exciting, rebellious lifestyle Lola admires. However, as Cricket re-enters Lola's life, Max reveals a jealous and possessive side, often prioritizing his band and friends over Lola. He struggles with insecurity and tries to control Lola, ultimately showing his immaturity and a lack of understanding for her true self. His character serves as a foil to Cricket.
Relationships: Lola Nolan (Boyfriend); Andy and Nathan (Lola's fathers, who are wary of him)
Calliope Bell
Supporting
Cricket's twin sister, an aspiring artist and Lola's childhood acquaintance.
Calliope is Cricket's twin sister, an aspiring artist who is often overshadowed by her brother's intellectual prowess. She has a somewhat complicated relationship with Lola, stemming from their childhood. While not as close to Lola as Cricket was, Calliope provides a different perspective on the Bell family dynamics and sometimes acts as a bridge between Lola and Cricket. She is supportive of her brother and eventually warms to Lola, understanding the genuine connection between them. Calliope is observant and often sees the truth of situations before others.
Relationships: Cricket Bell (Twin brother); Lola Nolan (Childhood acquaintance, later friend)
Andy
Supporting
One of Lola's loving and supportive adoptive fathers.
Andy is one of Lola's two adoptive fathers. He is portrayed as warm, understanding, and deeply supportive of Lola's artistic endeavors and unique personality. He often offers practical advice and emotional reassurance, acting as a grounding presence in Lola's life. Andy, along with Nathan, provides a safe and accepting home environment for Lola, contrasting with the more conservative Bell household. He is generally more outspoken than Nathan.
Relationships: Lola Nolan (Adoptive father); Nathan (Partner and co-parent)
Nathan
Supporting
One of Lola's quiet and equally supportive adoptive fathers.
Nathan is Lola's other adoptive father. He is often depicted as the quieter, more observant of the two dads, but equally loving and supportive. Nathan shares a strong bond with Lola, understanding her creative spirit. He provides a calm presence and often offers thoughtful insights. Together with Andy, he represents a modern, accepting family structure that empowers Lola to be herself, offering a stark contrast to the more traditional family values of the Bells.
Relationships: Lola Nolan (Adoptive father); Andy (Partner and co-parent)
Lindsey
Supporting
Lola's best friend and fellow costume enthusiast.
Lindsey is Lola's best friend and confidante. She shares Lola's passion for fashion and often helps her with her elaborate costume projects. Lindsey is loyal, humorous, and provides a sounding board for Lola's romantic dilemmas. She encourages Lola to follow her heart and pursue what truly makes her happy, offering honest opinions and unwavering support throughout Lola's journey of self-discovery and romantic entanglements. She is a reliable and fun presence.
Relationships: Lola Nolan (Best friend)
St. Clair
Mentioned
Anna's boyfriend from 'Anna and the French Kiss', mentioned as a friend.
Etienne St. Clair is a character from Stephanie Perkins's previous novel, 'Anna and the French Kiss', and is mentioned as a friend of Lola's. He represents a connection to the wider universe of Perkins's novels and highlights Lola's social circle, even if he doesn't appear directly in the plot. His mention reinforces the interconnectedness of Perkins's characters.
Relationships: Lola Nolan (Friend)
Themes & Insights
Identity and Self-Acceptance
Lola's journey is about accepting who she is, in her fashion choices and her emotional honesty. She first hides behind her elaborate outfits and a seemingly perfect relationship with Max, but Cricket's return makes her face her true self and what she wants. Her decision to design her own prom dress, instead of following trends, shows her self-acceptance and confidence in her identity.
“Maybe it's not about the clothes. Maybe it's about the person wearing them.”
First Love and Second Chances
The novel explores first love and reconnecting with a lost connection. Lola and Cricket's relationship began as a childhood friendship and a crush that ended due to misunderstanding. Their reunion lets them re-evaluate those feelings, get past old pain, and build a stronger, more mature relationship based on honesty and respect. It shows that true love can last and get a second chance.
“I was in love with him, and I knew it was real, because I had felt it before.”
Family and Support Systems
The different family dynamics are important. Lola's two supportive, adoptive fathers, Andy and Nathan, provide an open environment where she can express herself. In contrast, Cricket's more traditional and controlling parents first caused the problem between him and Lola. The theme shows how important a loving and understanding family is for a child's identity and emotional well-being, and how those dynamics can affect romantic relationships.
“My dads didn’t care what I wore, as long as I was happy. They just wanted me to be me.”
Appearance vs. Reality
Lola's love for costumes and Max's rockstar image first seem appealing but hide deeper truths. Lola uses her outfits to show an image, while Max's charm hides his insecurity and possessiveness. The novel looks at how appearances can be misleading, in fashion and relationships. It encourages looking past the surface to understand real character and connection, as Lola learns to see past Cricket's quiet exterior to his kindness and intelligence.
“Sometimes the flashiest things aren't the best.”
Plot Devices & Literary Techniques
The Boy Next Door Trope
A classic romance trope where the love interest is a familiar, close-proximity figure.
This central trope drives the entire narrative. Cricket Bell is literally the 'boy next door' whom Lola has known since childhood. This proximity and shared history create an instant, deep connection and a sense of fated romance. It allows for natural, frequent interactions and the slow rekindling of their relationship, making their eventual romance feel organic and inevitable. It also emphasizes the idea of finding love in familiar places, rather than seeking it in exotic or new experiences, as Lola initially does with Max.
Costume Design/Fashion as Metaphor
Lola's elaborate outfits symbolize her identity, creativity, and emotional state.
Lola's passion for costume design isn't just a hobby; it's a profound metaphor for her identity and self-expression. Her wigs and outrageous outfits represent her desire to be seen, her creativity, and initially, a way to hide or perform. As she grows, her fashion choices become more about authentic self-expression rather than a shield. The prom dress she designs for herself at the end of the book signifies her complete embrace of her unique identity and her confidence in who she is, independent of others' opinions.
The Childhood Flashback
Recurrent memories of Lola and Cricket's past illuminate their complex history.
Throughout the narrative, Lola frequently revisits memories of her childhood with Cricket, particularly the events leading up to their falling out. These flashbacks serve to deepen the reader's understanding of their past bond, the intensity of their early feelings, and the painful misunderstanding that separated them. They provide crucial context for their present-day interactions and help to build the emotional stakes of their rekindling romance, explaining why their connection runs so deep.
The Invention/Project
Cricket's inventions and their shared school project facilitate their reconnection.
Cricket's talent for invention, from small gadgets to the winter festival float he builds with Lola, acts as a catalyst for their renewed connection. The shared project forces them to spend time together, communicate, and collaborate, breaking down the barriers that had formed between them. It highlights Cricket's intelligence and thoughtfulness, and their successful collaboration symbolizes their ability to work together and create something beautiful, much like their evolving relationship.
Lola and the Boy Next Door Quotes
“I know you aren't perfect. And it's not because you're not a size two. You're not perfect because you're human, and humans are flawed. But you're perfect for me.”
“The boy next door is always the one you notice last.”
“I don't want to be the girl who gets the guy. I want to be the girl who is loved for exactly who she is.”
“Sometimes the person you're looking for is right in front of you.”
“You can't help who you love, even if you try.”
“Fashion is the armor to survive the reality of everyday life.”
“It's not about being perfect. It's about being real.”
“Love isn't about finding someone perfect. It's about seeing an imperfect person perfectly.”
“The heart wants what it wants, even when the mind says no.”
“You don't get to choose who you fall in love with, but you do get to choose what you do about it.”
“Home isn't a place. It's a person.”
“Sometimes the bravest thing you can do is admit how you feel.”
“Life is too short to wear boring clothes.”
“Love is worth the risk, even if it means getting hurt.”
Quiz
10 questions on the plot and the characters. Each answer comes with a short explanation.
Question 1
What is Lola Nolan's primary passion and creative outlet?
- Playing guitar in a band
- Costume design
- Writing poetry
- Scientific invention
Show answer
B. Costume design Lola is described as a budding costume designer who loves outrageous, sparkly outfits, which is central to her character and self-expression throughout the book.
Question 2
Who are the Bell twins that return to Lola's neighborhood?
- Calliope and Max
- Cricket and Calliope
- Calliope and Leo
- Cricket and Andy
Show answer
B. Cricket and Calliope The Bell twins are specifically named as Calliope and Cricket, whose reappearance disrupts Lola's life and rekindles her past feelings.
Question 3
What is Cricket Bell's notable talent or interest?
- He is a talented musician
- He is a gifted inventor
- He is a professional dancer
- He is a skilled painter
Show answer
B. He is a gifted inventor Cricket is described as a gifted inventor, which contrasts with Lola's artistic flair and adds depth to his character as he steps out of his sister's shadow.
Question 4
Why does Lola's life become complicated when the Bell twins return?
- They start a rival costume business
- Cricket re-enters her life, forcing her to confront past feelings
- Calliope bullies her at school
- They move into her house
Show answer
B. Cricket re-enters her life, forcing her to confront past feelings Lola must reconcile a lifetime of feelings for Cricket, the boy next door, which complicates her current relationship and self-identity, driving the romantic conflict.
Question 5
What role does Lola's current boyfriend play in the story?
- He is a supportive partner who encourages her costume designs
- He is a hot rocker boyfriend who represents her seemingly perfect life
- He is a childhood friend who helps her reconnect with Cricket
- He is a rival inventor competing with Cricket
Show answer
B. He is a hot rocker boyfriend who represents her seemingly perfect life Lola's hot rocker boyfriend is part of her 'pretty perfect' life before Cricket's return, setting up a love triangle and themes of authenticity versus appearance.
Question 6
How does Lola's approach to fashion reflect her personality?
- It shows her conformity to societal norms
- It demonstrates her desire for attention and fame
- It expresses her creativity, individuality, and love for fun
- It is a practical choice for her job as a designer
Show answer
C. It expresses her creativity, individuality, and love for fun Lola's outrageous, sparkly costumes are tied to her identity as a creative and vibrant person, emphasizing themes of self-expression and authenticity in the book.
Question 7
What is a key theme explored through Lola's relationships?
- The importance of academic success
- The conflict between past love and present comfort
- The dangers of technological innovation
- The benefits of having a large family
Show answer
B. The conflict between past love and present comfort The book delves into Lola's struggle between her current, seemingly perfect relationship and her unresolved feelings for Cricket, highlighting themes of love, growth, and authenticity.
Question 8
In what way does Cricket 'step out from his twin sister's shadow'?
- By moving to a different city to pursue his inventions
- By publicly challenging Calliope in a talent competition
- By reconnecting with Lola and asserting his own identity
- By taking over the family business
Show answer
C. By reconnecting with Lola and asserting his own identity Cricket's return allows him to engage with Lola independently, showcasing his talents and personality beyond his twin sister's influence, which is crucial to his character development.
Question 9
How does the setting of the 'boy next door' trope influence the story's dynamics?
- It creates a sense of mystery and distance between the characters
- It emphasizes the inevitability and deep history of Lola and Cricket's connection
- It leads to constant neighborly disputes over property
- It allows for a fast-paced, action-driven plot
Show answer
B. It emphasizes the inevitability and deep history of Lola and Cricket's connection The proximity and shared past inherent in the 'boy next door' setup amplify the emotional tension and lifelong bond between Lola and Cricket, making their reconnection more poignant.
Question 10
What does Lola's journey primarily symbolize in the context of young adult romance?
- The pursuit of career success over personal relationships
- The exploration of identity through creative expression and love
- The importance of family traditions in shaping one's future
- The challenges of long-distance relationships
Show answer
B. The exploration of identity through creative expression and love Lola's story intertwines her costume design passion with her romantic dilemmas, illustrating how young adults navigate self-discovery and authentic connections, a common theme in YA romance.
Lola and the Boy Next Door FAQ
What is 'Lola and the Boy Next Door' about?
The novel follows Lola Nolan, a creative high school student who loves designing flamboyant costumes, as her life is disrupted when the Bell twins—Calliope and Cricket—move back next door. Lola must confront her unresolved feelings for Cricket, a talented inventor, while navigating her current relationship with her older rocker boyfriend, Max, leading to a heartfelt exploration of first love and self-discovery.
Why should I read 'Lola and the Boy Next Door'?
This book offers a charming and relatable coming-of-age romance with well-developed characters, particularly Lola's unique artistic passion and Cricket's endearing awkwardness. It beautifully captures the complexities of teenage emotions, family dynamics, and the nostalgia of rekindled childhood connections, making it a satisfying read for fans of young adult contemporary romance.
What is the background/setting of 'Lola and the Boy Next Door'?
The story is set in San Francisco, primarily in the vibrant neighborhoods where Lola lives with her two dads, Andy and Nathan. Key locations include Lola's eclectic home, the Bell family's house next door, and local spots like the ice cream parlor where Lola works, all contributing to the book's cozy, urban atmosphere.
What are the most memorable quotes?
Notable quotes include Lola's mantra, 'I believe in costume. I believe in dressing up,' which highlights her identity, and Cricket's heartfelt line, 'I've loved you since the first moment I saw you,' encapsulating the novel's themes of enduring affection. Another is Lola's reflection, 'Sometimes you have to be apart from people you love, but that doesn't make you love them any less,' emphasizing growth and connection.
What writing style does Stephanie Perkins use?
Stephanie Perkins employs a warm, engaging first-person narrative from Lola's perspective, filled with vivid descriptions of costumes and emotions. Her prose is accessible and heartfelt, blending humor with poignant moments to create a relatable and immersive young adult romance experience.
What minor details add significant meaning?
Small details like Lola's ever-changing wigs and costumes symbolize her search for identity and desire to stand out, while Cricket's inventions, such as the mechanical butterfly, represent his creativity and lingering feelings for her. The recurring motif of the ice cream parlor where Lola works serves as a backdrop for key conversations and emotional revelations.
What are some subtle foreshadowing moments?
Early scenes where Lola feels uneasy about her relationship with Max hint at its instability, while her nostalgic memories of Cricket foreshadow their reconnection. Cricket's persistent attempts to talk to Lola, despite Calliope's interference, subtly indicate his unresolved affection long before it's openly addressed.
What unexpected character connections exist?
A surprising connection is between Lola's boyfriend, Max, and Cricket's twin sister, Calliope, whose competitive nature and past interactions add tension. Additionally, Lola's dads, Andy and Nathan, share a supportive yet complex dynamic with the Bell family, influencing Lola's decisions and highlighting themes of family and acceptance.
What are unspoken character motivations?
Cricket's motivation stems from a deep-seated guilt over past misunderstandings with Lola and a desire to prove himself beyond his twin's shadow. Lola is driven by a fear of vulnerability, using her costumes as armor to hide her insecurities, while Calliope's actions are fueled by jealousy and a need to control her brother's life.
What psychological complexities do characters exhibit?
Lola exhibits complexity through her conflict between her rebellious exterior and inner longing for stability, seen in her relationships with Max and Cricket. Cricket struggles with self-doubt and social anxiety, often overshadowed by Calliope, while Max's charismatic facade masks immaturity and manipulative tendencies, adding depth to the romantic triangle.
What are the major emotional turning points?
Key turning points include Lola's realization that her relationship with Max is superficial during a fight, Cricket's confession of his long-held feelings at the ice cream parlor, and Lola's decision to break up with Max after recognizing Cricket's genuine care. The climax involves Lola embracing her true self and choosing Cricket, leading to emotional resolution.
How do relationship dynamics evolve?
Lola and Cricket's dynamic evolves from childhood friends with unresolved tension to a tentative reconnection, culminating in a mature romantic bond based on mutual understanding. Lola's relationship with Max deteriorates as she sees his self-centeredness, while her bond with her dads strengthens as she becomes more honest about her feelings.
Which parts remain ambiguous or open-ended?
The novel leaves some ambiguity regarding Calliope's future relationship with Cricket and whether she fully accepts Lola. Additionally, Lola's long-term career aspirations in costume design are hinted at but not fully resolved, allowing readers to imagine her path beyond high school.
What are controversial scenes or decisions?
Controversial elements include Lola's relationship with the older Max, which some readers view as problematic due to the age gap and his manipulative behavior. Another is Lola's initial hesitation to leave Max for Cricket, which sparks debate about loyalty versus following one's heart in young love.
'Lola and the Boy Next Door' ending explained: how it ends & what it means
The ending sees Lola breaking up with Max and confessing her love to Cricket, leading to a sweet reconciliation where they share a kiss and plan for the future. It symbolizes Lola's growth in embracing her authentic self and choosing a relationship built on genuine connection rather than superficial attraction, with themes of forgiveness and new beginnings.
About the author
Stephanie Perkins is an American author known for her young adult fiction, particularly in the romance genre. Her notable works include "Anna and the French Kiss," "Lola and the Boy Next Door," and "Isla and the Happily Ever After," which explore themes of love and friendship among teenagers.
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