Purchase to Support Our Program

“A breezy and funny mix of romance, rivalry, and media critique.”

—Kirkus Reviews

“Witherspoon gleefully invokes reality show television tropes in this twisty rom-com.”

—Publishers Weekly

“A sweet romance with a competitive twist. Hand this to teens who can’t get enough reality show drama.”

—School Library Journal

Seyoon and Dean, Unscripted

Written by Sujin Witherspoon
Published by Union Square & Co.

Winning is Seyoon Shin’s middle name. Okay, it’s not, but she is a winner—despite what her critical dad says. Dean Parker, on the other hand, isn’t beating anyone to the finish line. His strengths are more brain, less brawn.

When a wilderness game show with an eccentric host and a cult following announces a reboot, they both jump at the chance to win the prize. Seyoon’s competitiveness fuels a fire in Dean he’s never felt before, and his hunger to prove himself rivals hers.

To get to the finals, they realize they need each other. Seyoon and Dean form an alliance, which the opportunistic producers are quick to frame as romantic. The rivals-to-lovers angle is good for views and intimidating the competition, but their chemistry is just for show . . . right?

As the lines blur between friendship and romance, reality and reality TV, Seyoon and Dean can’t ignore that the finale is fast approaching—and that only one of them can win.

Primary ISBN: 9781454954057
Publication Date: April 2026
Available As: Hardcover, Paperback, Audiobook, eBook
Young Adult, Age 14 or older

Community Represented:

Themes: , , , , , , ,

Setting: United States (Washington)

Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: Unknown Arrival

Book Creator(s) Connection to the Community Represented: Own Voices/Lived Experience

Click here for details about how we define our titles.

Engagement Projects & Resources:

Share your favorite resources for this book with info@imyourneighborbooks.org.