Dancing in the Daylight


Young Adult - Coming of Age
205 Pages
Reviewed on 11/30/2025
Buy on Amazon

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    Book Review

Reviewed by Anne-Marie Reynolds for Readers' Favorite

Dancing in the Daylight by Ben Hafer is a perfectly delightful YA coming-of-age story. Noah Harper wants to stay in the shadows, away from the spotlight. He loves 80s pop culture and prefers to spend his time giving his imagination free rein. Riley is his complete opposite, and she’s determined to drag Noah into the light and show him that life is for living. And so begins a new life for Noah, a life that makes him step outside the box he loves and face his fears. But something else is happening; Noah is forming a strong bond with Riley, a bond that leads him to see and understand what he never thought possible – that real fulfillment comes from the smallest things and connections.

Dancing in the Daylight by Ben Hafer is heartwarming and humorous, a book that perfectly highlights the joy to be found in self-discovery, in making real connections, and in stepping outside your comfort zone. The main characters, Noah and Riley, are very real, and the way their story has been written demonstrates that the author truly understands human nature. The plot is wholly realistic, and the descriptive writing transports you into the story; you’ll feel like you are living the story as you read. The character depth and world-building are second to none, and the bond between Riley and Noah will bring a warm smile to your face. The plot twists will keep you on your toes, and there are plenty of humorous parts that will have you chuckling out loud in this brilliantly written coming-of-age novel.