Required reading for surviving high school, friendship and figuring out first love.

I've had this one on my TBR list for ages, and when #pridemonth came along I decided it was time. This is the perfect example of the reader not being reflected in the main character of a book (I'm a straight 42yo woman, he's a gay teenage boy) but seeing herself in his story. And loving every minute of it.

Oh, the angst one feels in high school! The hallways, the friendships, the matters of the heart...whether you experienced it in 2018 or 1992, it never changes. I was charmed by Paul as I witnessed his circle of best friends and the rings around it jangle when a new kid comes to school amidst some drama going on between kids who've known each other their whole lives.

Not just a simple teen romance, this book is about friendships and family and bravery. I laughed, cringed and was caught off-guard by how emotional I got at times. Now I understand why it's on so many #mustread lists for #YAbooks and #lgbtqia novels.

Even if his story isn't a mirror for you, it's a window you should definitely take the time to look through.