Far from Xanadu

A parent would reach for this book when their teenager is experiencing the heavy, confusing weight of a first crush that cannot be reciprocated. It is especially suited for a young person who feels like an outsider in their own community, whether due to their interests, gender expression, or sexual orientation. The story follows Mike, a butch teenager in a small Kansas town, who falls deeply for a new girl named Xanadu. While the romance is the catalyst, the book is truly about the painful but necessary process of self-discovery and the courage it takes to be oneself when the world feels very small. This is a poignant exploration of identity, longing, and the reality of unrequited love. It deals with mature themes including grief over a parent's suicide and the struggle of being LGBTQ+ in a conservative environment. Because of its raw emotional honesty and some mature references, it is most appropriate for high school students aged 14 and up. It offers a mirror for teens who feel 'different' and provides a roadmap for moving through heartache toward self-acceptance.