
A parent might reach for this book when their teenager is navigating a period of profound isolation, whether due to a family tragedy or the vulnerability of living authentically in a new environment. This story follows Eli, a trans boy starting fresh at a new school, and Samantha, who is reeling from the sudden loss of her mother. As they navigate the complexities of New Jersey high school life, they find a rare sanctuary in each other. It is a deeply empathetic look at the courage it takes to be seen and the transformative power of a first true friendship. Parents will find this book particularly helpful for discussing identity and grief with high schoolers. It models how to build trust after trauma and provides a realistic yet hopeful look at the LGBTQ+ experience during the teenage years. The narrative is supportive and grounded, making it an excellent choice for fostering open dialogue about self-acceptance and emotional resilience.
Occasional realistic high school dialogue and mild profanity.
Depicts significant grief and mourning following the death of a parent.
Death of a parent (grief and bereavement), bullying, and instances of past transphobic harassment are referenced, including a classmate using Eli's deadname.
A teenager who feels they are living a double life or hiding a part of themselves due to fear. It is particularly resonant for a reader who has recently experienced a major life upheaval, such as a move or a family loss, and is searching for a friend who truly 'gets' it.
Parents may want to be prepared to discuss the grieving process, as Samantha’s grief is a central, visceral thread throughout the narrative. A parent might hear their child say, 'I feel like I have to act like a different person at school,' or notice their child is withdrawing after the loss of a loved one or a major move.
Younger teens (13-14) will likely focus on the social dynamics of the school and the blossoming friendship, while older teens (16-18) will better appreciate the nuances of the characters' internal identities and the complexity of moving through grief.
Unlike many stories about transgender characters, this book focuses on the universal struggle of learning to trust others with one's history.
Eli is a transgender boy beginning high school in a new district where he can live authentically as himself. Samantha is a recent transplant from Texas, struggling to find her footing after the sudden death of her mother. The two form an immediate bond based on their shared status as outsiders, navigating the social hierarchies of a New Jersey high school while deciding how and when to share their private burdens.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
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