Commencement by J. Courtney Sullivan

Published by

Sarah Ann

on

January 30, 2011

Commencement is the first novel by J. Courtney Sullivan. It’s about a group of freshmen students attending Smith College in Massachusetts.

Celia, Bree, April, and Sally couldn’t be more different from one another. They all become fast friends when they’re assigned to the same dormitory. Commencement jumps back and forth between the women’s college days and present day, and we’re regaled about the ups and downs in their lives during these times.

This book reminds me a lot of Prep by Curtis Sittenfeld, but without the dryness and cold feelings. I appreciate the camaraderie and candor among the girls in Commencement and how they approach life with so much vitality and vigor.

The subplot concerning April’s disappearance is an interesting addition to the story, but it’s too predictable. My favorite parts in Commencement were Sally and Jake’s relationship—which is sweet, loving, and utterly romantic—and Bree and Lara’s true love.

Other books by J. Courtney Sullivan include:

What are your thoughts on Commencement?

Last Updated on January 26, 2026 by Sarah Ann

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