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Brilliant and heartbreaking, but also so true

I really loved this book. The structure of the story is unique � jumping back and forth between a deposition and flashbacks, and the author does it so well � it’s utterly seamless. In some ways I felt like I was watching a movie. I never got bored, which is one of the biggest compliments I can give a book. But it’s also got a great voice. The voice of an adolescent male, with all the bravado, stupid jokes, and geek-out moments of real people. I don’t know when I’ve read a YA book with such an authentic teen boy voice.

The main character, Nathan, is flawed but still likeable. It was heartbreaking at times to watch him try to avoid various truths because of one single truth that he thought would destroy his world. And thinking more about this, post-read, maybe there were two truths he couldn’t face, but I won’t say more because…spoilers. His fears felt real and I think that many young adults will see themselves in his character.

It’s refreshing to read a YA novel that centers on a bi character and the topic of religion is handled deftly. Any religious teen struggling with issues that his or her church frowns on will get something from this story.

I kept wondering how this book would end. So often, the ending takes the steam out of the book, but I really loved how the author ended Nathan’s story. It was pitch perfect. There were some good twists in the plot, too, which I didn’t see coming.

I think this book will teach readers to expect and demand more of their romantic partners. It gives all teens, but especially ones in the LBGTQQIA community, a script to follow - a way to help a friend in need, but then, once their safety net is in place, to turn the focus back on their own well-being and take care of themselves. Of all the gems in this book, this last part might be the best gift of all. I can see this novel becoming one of those dog-eared books that people carry around with them and reference often for inspiration and also to reminders of how to respond in difficult conversations. I recommend this book for anyone, but especially for religious, questioning teens.