I found this book imminently readable, maybe because I saw myself in the main character- which is surprising in itself. If I could relate to Sveck (and I am someone who was raised on a farm from a rather poor family) and the awkwardness and life of the character, than anyone can. The way he doesn't fit in with peers his age, prefers adult company (if any), and would rather read than speak to anyone is a journey many of us went through as young queer folks.

The book is a great look at the journey of many modern gay teens. The character says it best:

I think that's what scares me: the randomness of everything. That the people who could be important to you might just pass you by. Or you pass them by. How do you know...I felt that by walking away I was abandoning [them], that I spent my entire life, day after day, abandoning people.

It was easy to relate to the character struggling to find his way on the verge of one of the biggest changes in life. While the book deals with serious issues- like depression, sexuality, and the growing pains of being on the edge of adulthood- it never falls into the realm of tortured, well-worn "self-discovery" that many books dealing with LGBT youth do. In fact, it was refreshing that there was no physical sexuality at all in the book. It is simply the tale of one person finding who they are and where they fit in the world.

All-in-all, the book was an interesting read that kept me engaged the entire time. It was humorous, smart, and piercing. The author tells a subtle tale of self-discovery and acceptance. It is a very internal struggle and journey that we should feel lucky to get to look into.

Overall Rating: B

And for suggestions from our readers, you can check out the great open thread "What was the last good book you read"...