Summary
Paul is a high school sophomore, very involved in his school, and spends his free time with his close group of friends. When he meets Noah, a new boy at school, Paul quickly falls for him. But when things get complicated with Paul's ex, he has to find a way to win Noah back.
Evaluative comments
Levithan creates an ideal high school, where sexuality and gender identity are not an issue and don't affect students' popularity. As a result, his book is upbeat and positive in a way that many LGBTQ books are not, giving a refreshing new perspective. The characters and their relationships are well developed and the humour in the novel hits a perfect note. The only shortcoming is that the story seems almost too short, and consequently feels a little rushed at times. Despite that, this book is well worth reading and sharing with teens.
Levithan creates an ideal high school, where sexuality and gender identity are not an issue and don't affect students' popularity. As a result, his book is upbeat and positive in a way that many LGBTQ books are not, giving a refreshing new perspective. The characters and their relationships are well developed and the humour in the novel hits a perfect note. The only shortcoming is that the story seems almost too short, and consequently feels a little rushed at times. Despite that, this book is well worth reading and sharing with teens.
Suggested audience
Grades 9-12
Grades 9-12
Reader’s advisory notes
Appeal terms - Character-driven, amusing, romantic
Read-alikes - Absolutely, Positively Nice, David LaRochelle; My Most Excellent Year: a Novel of Love, Mary Poppins, & Fenway Park, Steve Kluger
Appeal terms - Character-driven, amusing, romantic
Read-alikes - Absolutely, Positively Nice, David LaRochelle; My Most Excellent Year: a Novel of Love, Mary Poppins, & Fenway Park, Steve Kluger
Booktalking hook
Read Paul meeting Noah at the bookstore for the first time (pp. 3-4)
Read Paul meeting Noah at the bookstore for the first time (pp. 3-4)
Reason for inclusion
Awards and Honours - Lambda Literary Award - Children/Young Adult, 2004; Booklist Best Books for Young Adults, 2004
Awards and Honours - Lambda Literary Award - Children/Young Adult, 2004; Booklist Best Books for Young Adults, 2004
Category
LGBTQ, Realistic, Award-Winning
LGBTQ, Realistic, Award-Winning
