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Thanks a Lot, Universe #2
You Owe Me One, Universe
Brian and Ezra’s story continues in the moving sequel to Thanks a Lot, Universe, which New York Times bestselling author Nic Stone called “a glorious ode to the beauty of preteen friendship.”
Brian knows that anxiety and depression aren’t things that are magically fixed overnight, but he still doesn’t understand why it’s all hitting him so hard right now. Sure, his dad is still in prison and middle school is still stressful, but he’s seeing a therapist, he’s got good friends, and he’s doing really well on the basketball team. He should be fine, so why does he feel too tired to get out of bed some days? And why does he turn into “Cursed Monster Brian” and snap whenever someone asks him what’s wrong?
Ezra is trying his best to look out for Brian, but he’s not sure that he’s actually helping. Sure, they’re still best friends, but as Ezra starts preparing for the talent show, he also starts talking with Victor—the kid who relentlessly bullied Brian last year. It seems like Victor’s changed, and whenever he and Ezra hang out and make music together, Ezra’s stomach feels a little bit swoopy. But even if he likes making music and talking with Victor, he still feels like he’s betraying his best friend whenever they’re together. And he worries that he’s falling for another boy who won’t return his feelings . . .
Earnest, heartfelt, and full of humor, Chad Lucas’s You Owe Me One, Universe explores the nuances and complications of middle school relationships—and shows how sometimes the smallest acts of caring can be the ones that matter most.
Brian knows that anxiety and depression aren’t things that are magically fixed overnight, but he still doesn’t understand why it’s all hitting him so hard right now. Sure, his dad is still in prison and middle school is still stressful, but he’s seeing a therapist, he’s got good friends, and he’s doing really well on the basketball team. He should be fine, so why does he feel too tired to get out of bed some days? And why does he turn into “Cursed Monster Brian” and snap whenever someone asks him what’s wrong?
Ezra is trying his best to look out for Brian, but he’s not sure that he’s actually helping. Sure, they’re still best friends, but as Ezra starts preparing for the talent show, he also starts talking with Victor—the kid who relentlessly bullied Brian last year. It seems like Victor’s changed, and whenever he and Ezra hang out and make music together, Ezra’s stomach feels a little bit swoopy. But even if he likes making music and talking with Victor, he still feels like he’s betraying his best friend whenever they’re together. And he worries that he’s falling for another boy who won’t return his feelings . . .
Earnest, heartfelt, and full of humor, Chad Lucas’s You Owe Me One, Universe explores the nuances and complications of middle school relationships—and shows how sometimes the smallest acts of caring can be the ones that matter most.
298 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2023
21 people are currently reading
490 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
August 20, 2023
Actual rating 4.5 stars.
Sometimes a book brings a smile to my face, then tightens my stomach in a knot, followed by fussy feelings inside that pull my lips up in an even bigger smile. You Owe Me One, Universe is such a book, just as its prequel Thanks a Lot, Universe.
This MG story is about anxiety and depression, and about following your own needs, but most of all, it’s about a beautiful friendship between two thirteen-year-old boys: Brian, whose Dad is in jail and who hates being alone with his garbage brain (his own words), and Ezra who tries to navigate through life as the newly out gay teen.
I loved Brian and Ezra in Thanks a Lot, Universe, and I loved them even more in this sequel. Chad’s writing flows so easily, and I couldn’t stop reading. I felt Brian’s fears and depression like they were mine, and Ezra’s doubts were so palpable throughout the book I had to swallow some lumps in my throat. But at other times, I burst out laughing, and when Brian and Richie played barefoot in the snow, my chest almost exploded with love.
I’ve said it before, I think Chad should write YA too! I’ll be the first to read it!
I received an ARC from Amulet Books (Abrams) and Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review.
Sometimes a book brings a smile to my face, then tightens my stomach in a knot, followed by fussy feelings inside that pull my lips up in an even bigger smile. You Owe Me One, Universe is such a book, just as its prequel Thanks a Lot, Universe.
This MG story is about anxiety and depression, and about following your own needs, but most of all, it’s about a beautiful friendship between two thirteen-year-old boys: Brian, whose Dad is in jail and who hates being alone with his garbage brain (his own words), and Ezra who tries to navigate through life as the newly out gay teen.
I loved Brian and Ezra in Thanks a Lot, Universe, and I loved them even more in this sequel. Chad’s writing flows so easily, and I couldn’t stop reading. I felt Brian’s fears and depression like they were mine, and Ezra’s doubts were so palpable throughout the book I had to swallow some lumps in my throat. But at other times, I burst out laughing, and when Brian and Richie played barefoot in the snow, my chest almost exploded with love.
I’ve said it before, I think Chad should write YA too! I’ll be the first to read it!
I received an ARC from Amulet Books (Abrams) and Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review.
November 6, 2023
✰ 3.25 stars ✰
“Often, the people we care about have more grace and patience for us than we imagine.”
I may not have enjoyed You Owe Me One, Universe as much as it's predecessor, but it still was an achingly tender and emotional Middle Grade story about how important friendships are, the courage to face our fears, and the determination to rise above our demons.
“I didn’t mean to sound so harsh. I should have been the one to say sorry —not just for snapping at him. A guilt bomb went off in my brain. Ezra was always there for me, and I knew I’d broken his heart a little but I didn’t know what to say, and I hadn’t told him about my panic attack, and I’d basically been the worst friend.”
You don't have to be thirteen to feel how relatable Brian's inner thoughts were - how intrusive they are that it separates you from everyone else and everything happening around you, and how difficult it is to handle mental struggles without letting it consume you. He is really having it rough this time and his anxiety and depression - I felt beyond the pages - I ached for how much of a burden he had upon himself - how much pain he was still in - wanting to be neither here nor there - simply left alone, even knowing, though that these depressive thoughts weren't right. His inner turmoil and arguments that he waged within himself as he tried to reason and comprehend the meaning behind his fluctuating angry thoughts - 'there’s a monster in my brain' was very well done. 🤌🏻🤌🏻
As frustratingly difficult as it was to read, it was portrayed in such a believable light that you couldn't help but hope he would be able to banish the Green Goblin's thoughts from his mind. And he really had a lot of them - so many fears, depressive attitudes, wanting to be left alone even though he really didn't want to be, frustrated for feeling like he was the cause of his friends being upset, when all they wanted to do was help him. 🥺 It's difficult seeing a thirteen-year-old fighting a way to cope with his pains, but it was portrayed in such an honest light - so very relatable, that I appreciated it how it was handled.
While Ezra may not have been tackling mental demons, his story was no less important. After a rather awkward moment shared with Brian that quickly cemented that they would always be friends and nothing more, Ezra slowly starts spending more of his time and thoughts with Victor, the very boy who ruthlessly bullied Brian before. My best friend was struggling, and I’d ditched him for the guy who made his life miserable last year.' I liked seeing Brian's internal struggles of feeling like he was betraying Brian's trust for wanting to be around Victor, as he slowly starts to develop a crush on him. 😟 They shared some very cute moments, and it was nice to see Ezra entertained the idea that he could be attracted to another boy, and how he wanted to talk about it, and see if it was okay that he did like boys, and that it was. And as the story progresses, I enjoyed how he becomes more assured in himself and his talents, and see him overcome his own doubts and misgivings that showed just how special a person he really is.
“Victor can't be your BFF. I've claimed that role for life.”
“For life? Bold of you.”
“You know the last F stands for Forever, right?”
For even, as they take that next step into the universe - their friendship is still the crux of the story. How much of how they stood up for each other, protected one another, knowing when to step back to give the other breathing space, knowing how to ease the other out of a panic attack, supporting each other in a basketball game, and just being there - it was really beautifully written and I enjoyed seeing even when they were at the oddest of moments - even when they were uncomfortable about talking about the issues - it was that comforting hug or reassuring words that settled in my heart with a lot of warmth and affection for the two of them. 🫂 And for both boys, there was also a very healthy discussion about how they embrace their sexuality in their own different way and whatever it may be. Whether it's 'The point is, maybe you’ll have romantic feelings someday, or maybe you won’t, and either way, it’s OK,' or 'I know it’s not easy to talk about something so personal when you’re thirteen and figuring things out. But I’m more than OK with it. I’m so proud of you for having the courage to be who you are' - there's no rush to figure it out right away. 💟💟
And it's not only between the two of them - the relationship between their other friends - the support system of his teammates and grown-ups who were willing to lend an ear or a helping hand - it sheds such an important light of how friends can be the saving grace for someone lost. Whether it's through basketball or Christmas parties or giving each other a call to have impromptu sleep-overs, just to talk. ❤️🩹❤️🩹 So loyal and supportive and still engaging in all the classic teenage antics that show how boys will be boys - and still not be afraid to be vulnerable about their emotions - on the court and off. 🥺 I loved their easy-going nature, the quirky and amusing banter, and this deep-rooted sense of heart and loyalty that shined in their interactions and conversations. I loved that these young boys were so comfortable talking about their feelings - it definitely would not have been the case with the boys in my class back in the day, but it makes me happy that readers - who will read this - may find the courage to be more vocal about their thoughts and not shy away from talking about things that may worry them. 😊
But, as much as it was a wonderful portrayal of these important subjects, there was one glaring part that felt amiss to me - and that was Victor's part in the story. I did not mind that his story was being shared, I really didn't - but I think, in a way, it wasn't conveyed in the right way. It was an intense scene when his past was revealed, and I teared up at their hug, but I still felt a bit detached to it - like, I was supposed to care for what he has gone through - without really experiencing it with him. It kinda created an imbalance to Ezra and Brian's story - that if Victor's perspective had been given individually, rather than being shown through their eyes - perhaps, I would have empathized with his character a bit more than what was intended. I appreciated that he had changed and I really felt bad for him for what he was going through - yet, there was something missing for me to connect to him - to care for him - and it sorta brought down my feelings for the story. And that is a shame, considering how integral he actually is to the story, itself. 😔
Still, it is a heart-warming tribute to how deeply treasured true friendships can be. And even when the whole universe seems against you, just remember that you aren't alone in the universe and as long as you believe that when you reach out a hand for someone to hold, there will always be someone there to grasp it. 🫶🏻🫶🏻
“Often, the people we care about have more grace and patience for us than we imagine.”
I may not have enjoyed You Owe Me One, Universe as much as it's predecessor, but it still was an achingly tender and emotional Middle Grade story about how important friendships are, the courage to face our fears, and the determination to rise above our demons.
“I didn’t mean to sound so harsh. I should have been the one to say sorry —not just for snapping at him. A guilt bomb went off in my brain. Ezra was always there for me, and I knew I’d broken his heart a little but I didn’t know what to say, and I hadn’t told him about my panic attack, and I’d basically been the worst friend.”
You don't have to be thirteen to feel how relatable Brian's inner thoughts were - how intrusive they are that it separates you from everyone else and everything happening around you, and how difficult it is to handle mental struggles without letting it consume you. He is really having it rough this time and his anxiety and depression - I felt beyond the pages - I ached for how much of a burden he had upon himself - how much pain he was still in - wanting to be neither here nor there - simply left alone, even knowing, though that these depressive thoughts weren't right. His inner turmoil and arguments that he waged within himself as he tried to reason and comprehend the meaning behind his fluctuating angry thoughts - 'there’s a monster in my brain' was very well done. 🤌🏻🤌🏻
As frustratingly difficult as it was to read, it was portrayed in such a believable light that you couldn't help but hope he would be able to banish the Green Goblin's thoughts from his mind. And he really had a lot of them - so many fears, depressive attitudes, wanting to be left alone even though he really didn't want to be, frustrated for feeling like he was the cause of his friends being upset, when all they wanted to do was help him. 🥺 It's difficult seeing a thirteen-year-old fighting a way to cope with his pains, but it was portrayed in such an honest light - so very relatable, that I appreciated it how it was handled.
While Ezra may not have been tackling mental demons, his story was no less important. After a rather awkward moment shared with Brian that quickly cemented that they would always be friends and nothing more, Ezra slowly starts spending more of his time and thoughts with Victor, the very boy who ruthlessly bullied Brian before. My best friend was struggling, and I’d ditched him for the guy who made his life miserable last year.' I liked seeing Brian's internal struggles of feeling like he was betraying Brian's trust for wanting to be around Victor, as he slowly starts to develop a crush on him. 😟 They shared some very cute moments, and it was nice to see Ezra entertained the idea that he could be attracted to another boy, and how he wanted to talk about it, and see if it was okay that he did like boys, and that it was. And as the story progresses, I enjoyed how he becomes more assured in himself and his talents, and see him overcome his own doubts and misgivings that showed just how special a person he really is.
“Victor can't be your BFF. I've claimed that role for life.”
“For life? Bold of you.”
“You know the last F stands for Forever, right?”
For even, as they take that next step into the universe - their friendship is still the crux of the story. How much of how they stood up for each other, protected one another, knowing when to step back to give the other breathing space, knowing how to ease the other out of a panic attack, supporting each other in a basketball game, and just being there - it was really beautifully written and I enjoyed seeing even when they were at the oddest of moments - even when they were uncomfortable about talking about the issues - it was that comforting hug or reassuring words that settled in my heart with a lot of warmth and affection for the two of them. 🫂 And for both boys, there was also a very healthy discussion about how they embrace their sexuality in their own different way and whatever it may be. Whether it's 'The point is, maybe you’ll have romantic feelings someday, or maybe you won’t, and either way, it’s OK,' or 'I know it’s not easy to talk about something so personal when you’re thirteen and figuring things out. But I’m more than OK with it. I’m so proud of you for having the courage to be who you are' - there's no rush to figure it out right away. 💟💟
And it's not only between the two of them - the relationship between their other friends - the support system of his teammates and grown-ups who were willing to lend an ear or a helping hand - it sheds such an important light of how friends can be the saving grace for someone lost. Whether it's through basketball or Christmas parties or giving each other a call to have impromptu sleep-overs, just to talk. ❤️🩹❤️🩹 So loyal and supportive and still engaging in all the classic teenage antics that show how boys will be boys - and still not be afraid to be vulnerable about their emotions - on the court and off. 🥺 I loved their easy-going nature, the quirky and amusing banter, and this deep-rooted sense of heart and loyalty that shined in their interactions and conversations. I loved that these young boys were so comfortable talking about their feelings - it definitely would not have been the case with the boys in my class back in the day, but it makes me happy that readers - who will read this - may find the courage to be more vocal about their thoughts and not shy away from talking about things that may worry them. 😊
But, as much as it was a wonderful portrayal of these important subjects, there was one glaring part that felt amiss to me - and that was Victor's part in the story. I did not mind that his story was being shared, I really didn't - but I think, in a way, it wasn't conveyed in the right way. It was an intense scene when his past was revealed, and I teared up at their hug, but I still felt a bit detached to it - like, I was supposed to care for what he has gone through - without really experiencing it with him. It kinda created an imbalance to Ezra and Brian's story - that if Victor's perspective had been given individually, rather than being shown through their eyes - perhaps, I would have empathized with his character a bit more than what was intended. I appreciated that he had changed and I really felt bad for him for what he was going through - yet, there was something missing for me to connect to him - to care for him - and it sorta brought down my feelings for the story. And that is a shame, considering how integral he actually is to the story, itself. 😔
Still, it is a heart-warming tribute to how deeply treasured true friendships can be. And even when the whole universe seems against you, just remember that you aren't alone in the universe and as long as you believe that when you reach out a hand for someone to hold, there will always be someone there to grasp it. 🫶🏻🫶🏻
December 21, 2023
I loved Thanks a Lot, Universe and was excited to move directly on to this one. Much like the first book, You Owe Me One, Universe was filled with heart and humor, but wasn't afraid to touch on some difficult subjects -- having an incarcerated parent, depression / anxiety, suicide. I loved the focus on the importance of friendship and how healing it can be to have a support system. What I love about middle grade books (when I read them) is that they are generally low-stakes and have a happy ending. I was very happy with the epilogue and how the story was concluded. This was a very quick read that I enjoyed just as much as the original.
December 16, 2023
What a lovely book. It was so nice to be able to continue with the story of Brian and Ezra, their friendship is wonderful. This book provided a good look at how kids experiencing depression can reach out to get help, as well as how their friends can support them. I also liked seeing an example of how friends can navigate the experience of one person liking the other when their feelings aren’t reciprocated. It might be a bit awkward at times, but overall the most important thing to Ezra and Brian is their friendship.
I do think that sometimes the characters felt way too mature or emotionally intelligent for their ages. It would make sense for one or two of the characters, but it felt a tiny bit unbelievable for all these 13 year old boys to have so much emotional maturity. But overall this was a great middle grade book dealing with mental health and queer topics.
I do think that sometimes the characters felt way too mature or emotionally intelligent for their ages. It would make sense for one or two of the characters, but it felt a tiny bit unbelievable for all these 13 year old boys to have so much emotional maturity. But overall this was a great middle grade book dealing with mental health and queer topics.
May 1, 2024
AAAAHH it was amazing!! Truly the perfect sequel to a beloved story. I adore Brian and Ezra, and seeing them to this conclusion was so satisfying.
And Victor!!
I was not surprised about Victor, but I was a little wary at first. We've seen a lot of bullies turn out to be queer in media, and I'm a little tired of it, BUT Chad Lucas handled it so well that I was genuinely rooting for Victor by the end of it :,) He's learned and that's such an important thing. You can be better than the bully you once were and I think that's something good to tell kids. I don't know if it always works out quite as sweetly as this but it would be nice if it did...
This book made me laugh out loud, HARD. I giggled with the characters, I mourned with them, I loved. This story is really special and I hold it dearly in my heart. Those boys!!!!
And Victor!!
I was not surprised about Victor, but I was a little wary at first. We've seen a lot of bullies turn out to be queer in media, and I'm a little tired of it, BUT Chad Lucas handled it so well that I was genuinely rooting for Victor by the end of it :,) He's learned and that's such an important thing. You can be better than the bully you once were and I think that's something good to tell kids. I don't know if it always works out quite as sweetly as this but it would be nice if it did...
This book made me laugh out loud, HARD. I giggled with the characters, I mourned with them, I loved. This story is really special and I hold it dearly in my heart. Those boys!!!!
August 27, 2023
With YOU OWE ME ONE, UNIVERSE, the follow up to THANKS A LOT, UNIVERSE, Chad Lucas delivers once again with a tender and emotionally complex story about growing up and into your own identity. While THANKS A LOT brought Brian and Ezra to a kind of resolution, Brian's struggle with depression and Victor's growing feelings for Victor are complex and ever evolving. What a gift for young readers to be able to pick back up with their stories and see where they go! No one writes tender and honest friendships between junior high boys like Lucas! Once again I didn't want to leave their world and hope there will be more books in this series!
Thank you to the author, Amulet Books and Netgalley for the E-Arc.
Thank you to the author, Amulet Books and Netgalley for the E-Arc.
July 9, 2025
At first I wasn’t sure, but in the end, this book warmed my heart.
I liked how mental health was a big issue to be worked on and talked, even at a young age. Depression, anxiety, but mostly depression. Because it can happens to teens and children too.
And even if I had doubt about Victor’s change of heart and even Ezra’s character sometimes, I was in awwe in the end.
Mostly, the friendship between Ezra and Brian, a bit in the background but still a pilar, was great to come back to.
I liked how mental health was a big issue to be worked on and talked, even at a young age. Depression, anxiety, but mostly depression. Because it can happens to teens and children too.
And even if I had doubt about Victor’s change of heart and even Ezra’s character sometimes, I was in awwe in the end.
Mostly, the friendship between Ezra and Brian, a bit in the background but still a pilar, was great to come back to.
August 12, 2024
AHHHHHHHH IM SCREAMING
this book was really good 😊
I liked it a lot 🫶🫶
this book was really good 😊
I liked it a lot 🫶🫶
November 11, 2023
Thanks to NetGalley for the audio ARC!
I read Thanks a Lot, Universe at the beginning of this year, and absolutely adored it. As in I listened to it in one day, even though I was supposed to be studying, because I just could not stop. Since finding out there would be a sequel I have been so so excited, and when I stumbled upon the ARC on NetGalley I obviously had to request it (desperately hoping it would get approved). When my request did get approved I got so excited I literally started jumping around squealing. Ehm yeah. So I guess you could say I loved the first book in this series.
In preparation for reading You Owe Me One, Universe I reread Thanks a Lot, Universe, and I told myself I could not read all of it in a day this time because I'm literally writing my thesis at the moment, but again once I started I could not stop, and a few hours later I found myself having finished the book. Whoops. I just love it so much!! Then the next day I started You Owe Me One, Universe, and can you guess what happened? Oh yes. I finished the entire book in one day again. No regrets. (Or maybe a few regrets since I really do need to finish my thesis.)
This series just fills me with so much happiness. Like yeah the boys go through so much, especially Brian, but the way they are always there for each other and just trying their best? It's so heartwarming. There are so many amazing characters in this series, from Ty and Kevin just being such good friends, to Gabe who basically adopts Brian as his little brother, and Gabe's mum who acts as a mum to both Brian and his younger brother, and Brittney (sorry I have no idea how her name is spelled) who's just generally awesome, to Ezra who's just trying his best, and sweet sweet Brian who's so strong, and so many other characters. I love them all so much.
Something else this book does so well is the depiction of Brian's depression (and his social anxiety). I can't recall ever reading another middle grade book like this, and having books showing mental illness in this way is so so important. Brian struggled so much, but he had so much support around him, and even if his friends didn't really understand it they never abandoned or gave up on him, and instead always did their best to help him.
I also need to mention the fact that Brian is 13-14 years old in this book, and he has never had a crush on anyone. He brings it up to multiple older people since the fact that he seems to be the only person his age feeling this way makes him a little worried, and everyone assures him that that is completely fine, and maybe he will start being attracted to people eventually, or maybe he won't, and either way is completely fine and normal. Most people just say that "oh you will fall in love eventually", or "you just haven't met the right person yet", but this book never does and that means so much to me as an aspec person, because yeah some of us really do never end up getting attracted to other people, and it's so important for the kids to know that there is absolutely nothing wrong with them if they don't!
There are few other MG books that have made me as emotional as this series did, and they will forever have a special place in my heart. I can't wait to reread both of the books (though maybe I should wait until I have actually finished writing my thesis before I do that).
I read Thanks a Lot, Universe at the beginning of this year, and absolutely adored it. As in I listened to it in one day, even though I was supposed to be studying, because I just could not stop. Since finding out there would be a sequel I have been so so excited, and when I stumbled upon the ARC on NetGalley I obviously had to request it (desperately hoping it would get approved). When my request did get approved I got so excited I literally started jumping around squealing. Ehm yeah. So I guess you could say I loved the first book in this series.
In preparation for reading You Owe Me One, Universe I reread Thanks a Lot, Universe, and I told myself I could not read all of it in a day this time because I'm literally writing my thesis at the moment, but again once I started I could not stop, and a few hours later I found myself having finished the book. Whoops. I just love it so much!! Then the next day I started You Owe Me One, Universe, and can you guess what happened? Oh yes. I finished the entire book in one day again. No regrets. (Or maybe a few regrets since I really do need to finish my thesis.)
This series just fills me with so much happiness. Like yeah the boys go through so much, especially Brian, but the way they are always there for each other and just trying their best? It's so heartwarming. There are so many amazing characters in this series, from Ty and Kevin just being such good friends, to Gabe who basically adopts Brian as his little brother, and Gabe's mum who acts as a mum to both Brian and his younger brother, and Brittney (sorry I have no idea how her name is spelled) who's just generally awesome, to Ezra who's just trying his best, and sweet sweet Brian who's so strong, and so many other characters. I love them all so much.
Something else this book does so well is the depiction of Brian's depression (and his social anxiety). I can't recall ever reading another middle grade book like this, and having books showing mental illness in this way is so so important. Brian struggled so much, but he had so much support around him, and even if his friends didn't really understand it they never abandoned or gave up on him, and instead always did their best to help him.
I also need to mention the fact that Brian is 13-14 years old in this book, and he has never had a crush on anyone. He brings it up to multiple older people since the fact that he seems to be the only person his age feeling this way makes him a little worried, and everyone assures him that that is completely fine, and maybe he will start being attracted to people eventually, or maybe he won't, and either way is completely fine and normal. Most people just say that "oh you will fall in love eventually", or "you just haven't met the right person yet", but this book never does and that means so much to me as an aspec person, because yeah some of us really do never end up getting attracted to other people, and it's so important for the kids to know that there is absolutely nothing wrong with them if they don't!
There are few other MG books that have made me as emotional as this series did, and they will forever have a special place in my heart. I can't wait to reread both of the books (though maybe I should wait until I have actually finished writing my thesis before I do that).
October 27, 2025
This book talked more about depression, where the first book talked about anxiety. I thought it had some great descriptions, and my kids and I found it very relatable. I wish it had ended earlier though, and that the relationship stuff at the end wasn't such a focus.
November 27, 2023
This was a nice middle grade book about friendship - it can be really complicated when you get into arguments or misunderstandings with people you care about, but it’s important not to burn everything to the ground because friends can also help you through hard times etc, even if you don’t want it. i liked the balance of friendship/family/school, and i loved the basketball scenes. i do think it wrapped up very quickly and very well. i wish there was more from victors actual POV instead of just being told through the other characters.
March 5, 2025
Feels like a warm blanket of sweet friendships
August 4, 2024
I remembering loving the first book in this series, Thanks a Lot, Universe, and loved this follow up too. I didn't go back and reread the first book though so I remembered things as I went along. Even if you don't read Thanks a Lot, Universe this book stands alone well. Just like before I love the diversity rep in this book. Lots of mental health issues, lots of emotions for young teenage boys, parental issues (dad in jail, mom with her own mental health issues, parents divorcing), and different ethnicities and sexual identities. There's a lot of friend and relationship drama and I felt like it was all very realistic and the characters were relatable in how strong but vulnerable they were. The amount of crying was extreme compared to many books in this middle grade genre but I thought it was all meaningful and appropriate and loved how the boys weren't picked on for it but cheered up, listened to, empathized with or joined in their emotions. I enjoyed all the different names and feelings Brian had for his anxiety and anger and how his friends helped him see some of it as a positive. The only critique I can give is, at least for me, there were so many characters with so many siblings and parents and friends that I never got it totally down who belonged to whom. Another great read by Chad Lucas I would recommend to all middle grade readers as well as anyone wanting to see mental health issues dealt with sensitively and lovingly.
August 22, 2024
The first part of this book was pretty good but it went violently downhill at the ending. It’s focuses on a group of middle school boys and they’re all super in tune with themselves and each other, always checking up on each other and making sure everyone is doing good. They’re all very emotionally aware and it just seems so forced. Middle school boys don’t do that. Stop lying. Just because they’re all gay doesn’t mean they aren’t 14 year old boys. It feels like it was written by a 5th grader. Like the idea is sort of there but the execution really wasn’t. The ending was so stupid and once again so so so forced. They also tried to jam in like 3672 life lessons and it’s just so unrealistic and very hard to connect with the characters.
February 21, 2024
Loved this thoughtful and honest follow up to Thanks a Lot, Universe. Readers will enjoy the realistic conflicts between friends, the confusion and pain of parents being imperfect, and the opportunity to put broken pieces back together again, even when it seems unlikely or even impossible. I really appreciated the nod to restorative justice, something I'm happy to see in children's literature, as it helps us as a society move away from punitive measures and move towards embracing each other as more fully human.
September 18, 2024
Siento que el primer libro se me hizo más especial e interesante, a pesar sé no ser el público objetivo de esta historia a mi parecer vale la pena resaltar la labor del autor a la hora de poner sobre la mesa temas de conversación vitales, como la salud mental, la terapia, el apoyo familiar y el poder de la amistad.
No obstaste si es cierto que en cuanto a la ejecución pude sentir que algunas cosas no terminaban de convencerme, la forma en que estos chicos de 13 años hablan, actúan y gestionan sus emociones y pensamientos sin duda tiene ciertas licencias creativas, ya que es muy raro que así suceda en la vida real. Pero precisamente siento que eso es intencional del autor para acercar los mensajes del libro de una forma más eficaz a los chicos que lo leerán.
No obstaste si es cierto que en cuanto a la ejecución pude sentir que algunas cosas no terminaban de convencerme, la forma en que estos chicos de 13 años hablan, actúan y gestionan sus emociones y pensamientos sin duda tiene ciertas licencias creativas, ya que es muy raro que así suceda en la vida real. Pero precisamente siento que eso es intencional del autor para acercar los mensajes del libro de una forma más eficaz a los chicos que lo leerán.
March 26, 2025
4.75 ⭐️
aww the second book of this series was so wholesome! I listened to the audiobook because I didn’t want to buy the second book, and the voices of the audiobook were perfect to how I imagined Brian and Ezra to sound like. Such a sweet and wholesome story that covers very heavy topics, so well.
Would definitely recommend
aww the second book of this series was so wholesome! I listened to the audiobook because I didn’t want to buy the second book, and the voices of the audiobook were perfect to how I imagined Brian and Ezra to sound like. Such a sweet and wholesome story that covers very heavy topics, so well.
Would definitely recommend
January 22, 2024
I wish this book existed when I was younger — so many important topics. I enjoyed this book as much, perhaps slightly more, than book #1.
January 30, 2024
Bro… 🥺
this book man, awesome. i love how relatable the characters are and just the authors style. very realistic an filled with beautiful moments. worth it!
this book man, awesome. i love how relatable the characters are and just the authors style. very realistic an filled with beautiful moments. worth it!
December 10, 2024
I really liked the continuation of Ezra's and Brian's story. I think this is the type of book I would have liked to read when I was 13.
November 19, 2023
I loved this chance to read more about Brain and Ezra and even the once-bully, Victor. Chad tackles very serious topics such as depression, bullying, rape, sibling abuse, and sexuality with a gentle and sensitive hand. I look forward to reading the next book Chad publishes.
August 28, 2023
Received from Edelweiss, thanks!
It was so nice to be back reading about Ezra and Brian. I so thoroughly enjoyed Thanks A Lot, Universe, that I was very excited to get an early copy of this one. And it did not disappoint.
I really love how Lucas is able to write these quite heavy and serious topics (mental health, having a parent in prison, figuring out your sexuality, etc) with kindness and thoughtfulness. All while feeling entirely realistic and accurate, especially for the ages of the main characters.
I also really appreciate that while Brian is trying to figure out his feelings towards Ezra and is talking about it with his therapist (YES to normalizing therapy for all ages!), that everything is really inclusive, without it coming across as sort of playing LBGTQ bingo, if that makes sense. Like, she gives him options and suggestions, but in a very non-specific way, which I really appreciate.
Overall, this is a book about friendship, and how friends can be there for you when you really need them and what it means to be a good friend. Even as you get older and your interests change, you can still be a good friend.
It was so nice to be back reading about Ezra and Brian. I so thoroughly enjoyed Thanks A Lot, Universe, that I was very excited to get an early copy of this one. And it did not disappoint.
I really love how Lucas is able to write these quite heavy and serious topics (mental health, having a parent in prison, figuring out your sexuality, etc) with kindness and thoughtfulness. All while feeling entirely realistic and accurate, especially for the ages of the main characters.
I also really appreciate that while Brian is trying to figure out his feelings towards Ezra and is talking about it with his therapist (YES to normalizing therapy for all ages!), that everything is really inclusive, without it coming across as sort of playing LBGTQ bingo, if that makes sense. Like, she gives him options and suggestions, but in a very non-specific way, which I really appreciate.
Overall, this is a book about friendship, and how friends can be there for you when you really need them and what it means to be a good friend. Even as you get older and your interests change, you can still be a good friend.
November 10, 2023
3.5 stars.
I liked this, but as someone who has spent a lot of time around junior high kids, the level of emotional awareness that the characters had felt a bit forced at times. I just had a bit of a hard time believing that a bunch of 13 year old boys were that independent and that aware of their emotions and had the ability to treat those different from them without much stigma or bullying. BUT, I could see it being a good read for a junior high kid to help bring awareness to things like LGBTQ identities, bullying, and mental health. And it was a pretty decent audiobook too.
I liked this, but as someone who has spent a lot of time around junior high kids, the level of emotional awareness that the characters had felt a bit forced at times. I just had a bit of a hard time believing that a bunch of 13 year old boys were that independent and that aware of their emotions and had the ability to treat those different from them without much stigma or bullying. BUT, I could see it being a good read for a junior high kid to help bring awareness to things like LGBTQ identities, bullying, and mental health. And it was a pretty decent audiobook too.
September 3, 2023
+A digital ARC was provided by NetGalley in return for an honest review.+
Woo hoo! I sincerely hope that Chad Lucas (and Brian, Ezra and the boys) can all hear us cheering wildly, foot-stomping in the stands, throats hoarse from happy chanting, as their story continues to be told.
Once again, Lucas gifts us with the mess that is boys figuring out who they are, who they want to be, and what they want smack dab in the center of the pubescent disaster that is middle school. And it is realistic fiction in all its glory. These characters are so gritty, so blissfully honest, that they practically jump out of the tip-offs right out of the page. Readers will connect with the uncertainty of emotions swirling in their heads and their dialogue.
As the mom of two boys around this age (12 and 14), I can attest that the dialogue rings true. I literally laughed out loud several times when I had my 14-year-old re-read a couple of Ezra's quips to confirm that he had - in fact - said those same words to me within days. So when I say that readers will see themselves in these pages, I say so with confidence.
As someone who has dealt with depression, I was incredibly impressed with how Lucas weaves this topic through the storyline with both empathy and honesty. While written for a middle-grade audience, this part of the story is written with a grace and authenticity that resonates. Mental health remains a topic that is not yet widely accepted as a general health issue and is still one often swept under the table or spoken of in hushed tones. Here Lucas puts it out in the open without shame and claims it as only young boys can - in the same sentences with superheroes and butt jokes.
Here's to hoping that there's a #3...(stomp, stomp, cheer!).
Woo hoo! I sincerely hope that Chad Lucas (and Brian, Ezra and the boys) can all hear us cheering wildly, foot-stomping in the stands, throats hoarse from happy chanting, as their story continues to be told.
Once again, Lucas gifts us with the mess that is boys figuring out who they are, who they want to be, and what they want smack dab in the center of the pubescent disaster that is middle school. And it is realistic fiction in all its glory. These characters are so gritty, so blissfully honest, that they practically jump out of the tip-offs right out of the page. Readers will connect with the uncertainty of emotions swirling in their heads and their dialogue.
As the mom of two boys around this age (12 and 14), I can attest that the dialogue rings true. I literally laughed out loud several times when I had my 14-year-old re-read a couple of Ezra's quips to confirm that he had - in fact - said those same words to me within days. So when I say that readers will see themselves in these pages, I say so with confidence.
As someone who has dealt with depression, I was incredibly impressed with how Lucas weaves this topic through the storyline with both empathy and honesty. While written for a middle-grade audience, this part of the story is written with a grace and authenticity that resonates. Mental health remains a topic that is not yet widely accepted as a general health issue and is still one often swept under the table or spoken of in hushed tones. Here Lucas puts it out in the open without shame and claims it as only young boys can - in the same sentences with superheroes and butt jokes.
Here's to hoping that there's a #3...(stomp, stomp, cheer!).
January 21, 2024
So I just finished reading it.
APFHAOHDOSBID IM CRYING I LOVE BRIAN AND EZRA
Before reading this review, people should know I’m a very petty person. I don’t forgive others easily, which I think is why I found it difficult to connect with Victor. I’ve dealt with my fair share of mean people, and personally? I would be crushed if I found out my best friend liked a person that was as mean as Victor was. But I’ve also gone through some tough stuff in my life, so I get it.
ALSO I still believe Brian and Ezra should’ve gotten together (I’m a hopeless romantic) and tbh I believe Ezra and Victor should break up. I think Ezra deserves way better, but Ik i can be harsh, so idk. I’ll TRY and warm up to Victor, probably won’t be likely, but I’ll try (and I’ll come back in a few months with an update).
But writing was excellent, jokes were hilarious, and characters are well rounded, have dimension and are written well!!!
MANIFESTING BOOK THREEEE
I’m so so so so sorry for everyone who read all of this lmao
APFHAOHDOSBID IM CRYING I LOVE BRIAN AND EZRA
Before reading this review, people should know I’m a very petty person. I don’t forgive others easily, which I think is why I found it difficult to connect with Victor. I’ve dealt with my fair share of mean people, and personally? I would be crushed if I found out my best friend liked a person that was as mean as Victor was. But I’ve also gone through some tough stuff in my life, so I get it.
ALSO I still believe Brian and Ezra should’ve gotten together (I’m a hopeless romantic) and tbh I believe Ezra and Victor should break up. I think Ezra deserves way better, but Ik i can be harsh, so idk. I’ll TRY and warm up to Victor, probably won’t be likely, but I’ll try (and I’ll come back in a few months with an update).
But writing was excellent, jokes were hilarious, and characters are well rounded, have dimension and are written well!!!
MANIFESTING BOOK THREEEE
I’m so so so so sorry for everyone who read all of this lmao
December 18, 2023
Nobody writes teenage boys better than Chad Lucas. Period.
March 5, 2024
This book series is so cute I loved reading it I hope there’s another book
July 23, 2023
E ARC provided by Edelweiss Plus
**Some spoilers for the first book, if you haven't read it, and I recommend that you do. The sequel will make little sense without it. **
In this sequel to Thanks a Lot, Universe, we pick up with Ezra and Brian, who have both been having a tough time. Brian's father has been incarcerated on drug charges, his mother tried to commit suicide, and Brian and his brother Richie ended up in foster care with his teacher, Ms. McClellan. While his mother is back home, he is understandably concerned about her, and struggles with visiting his father in jail. Ezra and Brian are on the basketball team and are still really good friends. They even experiment with a kiss, but realize that they are better off as friends. Their teammates and friends are very supportive, which is a good thing. As Christmas approaches, Brian feels really off. He gets angry easily, can't sleep, and his mother suggests he goes back to the doctor even before he admits to having another panic attack. Ezra, meanwhile, starts hanging out with Victor, who seems to have changed his ways. The two work on songs together, and Ezra starts to feel that he might have a crush on the former bully. When a teammate, Harrison, uses the word "gay" as a slur, the basketball team quickly takes him to task, and Ezra ends up telling the team that he is gay. Brian continues to have problems, and ends up being on medication for his depression, which he doesn't like. The sessions with Dr. Bender help, and he makes very slow progress dealing with his emotional state. Ezra and Victor start to spend more and more time together, and Ezra feels awkward about this because of Victor's past with his good friend. When Caleb, who ghosted Ezra after he found out that Ezra was gay, calls and asks to come over because he has an emergency, Ezra is suprised but says yes. It turns out that there was an altercation involving Victor's older brother who was having a party in the absence of their parents, and Victor and Caleb stepped in to stop an incident involving a girl who had had too much to drink. This allows the air to be cleared a bit, and helps everyone move on from the previous year with a better understanding of each other.
Strengths: This was worth buying for several events; the one where "gay" is used as a perjorative and the perpetrator is called out, Brian's prescription for antidepressants and his frustration when they don't seem to work and the one where Victor and Caleb save the girl at the party. The depiction of understanding friends was good, and the parents were also supportive and helpful. Ms. McClellan and her son Gabe are also still around for support, and Ms. McClellan also has a support group at school. The coach is understanding about Brian's depression and its effect on his playing, but likens it to a sprained ankle and offers the gym early in the morning if Brian needs a quiet, safe space where he can play basketball. The way that being gay is dealt with works well; not ideal, but generally accepted, and I loved that the team was able to have a frank discussion about it. A worthy sequel to the first book.
Weaknesses: Maybe middle school boys are more open with their emotions now, but it seemed odd that so many of them told each other that they loved each other in earnest and unromantic ways. This might be a generational thing; in the 1970s, we certainly were never encouraged to even have emotions, much less share them. I would have like to have seen more basketball and fewer details about Brian's emotional struggles, but maybe this is what today's readers want. Have to check with my students. I was a little surprised that there was no mention of black box warnings for antidepressants being described for teens.
What I really think: It would help if there were a basketball on the front cover, but since it's a sequel, I'll have to hope that readers pick up the first book and want to continue. Basketball books don't usually have the strong dramatic component that this one has (baseball has all the emotional problems, usually), but this will be a good choice for readers who enjoyed Sonnenblick's Zen and the Art of Faking It or Williams' We Are Family.
Ms. Yingling
**Some spoilers for the first book, if you haven't read it, and I recommend that you do. The sequel will make little sense without it. **
In this sequel to Thanks a Lot, Universe, we pick up with Ezra and Brian, who have both been having a tough time. Brian's father has been incarcerated on drug charges, his mother tried to commit suicide, and Brian and his brother Richie ended up in foster care with his teacher, Ms. McClellan. While his mother is back home, he is understandably concerned about her, and struggles with visiting his father in jail. Ezra and Brian are on the basketball team and are still really good friends. They even experiment with a kiss, but realize that they are better off as friends. Their teammates and friends are very supportive, which is a good thing. As Christmas approaches, Brian feels really off. He gets angry easily, can't sleep, and his mother suggests he goes back to the doctor even before he admits to having another panic attack. Ezra, meanwhile, starts hanging out with Victor, who seems to have changed his ways. The two work on songs together, and Ezra starts to feel that he might have a crush on the former bully. When a teammate, Harrison, uses the word "gay" as a slur, the basketball team quickly takes him to task, and Ezra ends up telling the team that he is gay. Brian continues to have problems, and ends up being on medication for his depression, which he doesn't like. The sessions with Dr. Bender help, and he makes very slow progress dealing with his emotional state. Ezra and Victor start to spend more and more time together, and Ezra feels awkward about this because of Victor's past with his good friend. When Caleb, who ghosted Ezra after he found out that Ezra was gay, calls and asks to come over because he has an emergency, Ezra is suprised but says yes. It turns out that there was an altercation involving Victor's older brother who was having a party in the absence of their parents, and Victor and Caleb stepped in to stop an incident involving a girl who had had too much to drink. This allows the air to be cleared a bit, and helps everyone move on from the previous year with a better understanding of each other.
Strengths: This was worth buying for several events; the one where "gay" is used as a perjorative and the perpetrator is called out, Brian's prescription for antidepressants and his frustration when they don't seem to work and the one where Victor and Caleb save the girl at the party. The depiction of understanding friends was good, and the parents were also supportive and helpful. Ms. McClellan and her son Gabe are also still around for support, and Ms. McClellan also has a support group at school. The coach is understanding about Brian's depression and its effect on his playing, but likens it to a sprained ankle and offers the gym early in the morning if Brian needs a quiet, safe space where he can play basketball. The way that being gay is dealt with works well; not ideal, but generally accepted, and I loved that the team was able to have a frank discussion about it. A worthy sequel to the first book.
Weaknesses: Maybe middle school boys are more open with their emotions now, but it seemed odd that so many of them told each other that they loved each other in earnest and unromantic ways. This might be a generational thing; in the 1970s, we certainly were never encouraged to even have emotions, much less share them. I would have like to have seen more basketball and fewer details about Brian's emotional struggles, but maybe this is what today's readers want. Have to check with my students. I was a little surprised that there was no mention of black box warnings for antidepressants being described for teens.
What I really think: It would help if there were a basketball on the front cover, but since it's a sequel, I'll have to hope that readers pick up the first book and want to continue. Basketball books don't usually have the strong dramatic component that this one has (baseball has all the emotional problems, usually), but this will be a good choice for readers who enjoyed Sonnenblick's Zen and the Art of Faking It or Williams' We Are Family.
Ms. Yingling
December 6, 2024
Comfort Food That Isn't Over-sweetened
Now that we're in the second book of this series (?), I was surprised to find that once I picked this up, I felt like it was a comforting and heartwarming read, something I kept wanting to pick up to feel reassured about life. The main characters still have some tough times they are going through, those tough times still feel pretty realistically depicted, and these kids still end up finding an aspirational level of support among their loved ones.
At first, the conflicts that Brian and Ezra were working through wasn't as apparent as in the first book, but they are both a continuation of their earlier struggles (i.e., good to show that problems aren't always so easily solved), and a progressed incarnation of them. Brian is still struggling with panic attacks, and he starts to struggle with depression. Some of these scenes were a little tough to read, they felt true to life, we see how much his friends care and how he reacts, poor kid. Meanwhile Ezra is still trying to help Brian (with a hint of reflection on needing to prioritize his own wants and needs), and is navigating being gay in middle school. Ultimately, I still felt like I was in good hands with the author with regards to how these things were handled, and I was confident (and correct) in thinking that he would bring us to a grounded but satisfying conclusion.
If I have one critique, it's a scene where a character is seeking redemption for the past and But, honestly, the scene played out pretty successfully and it's a very minor critique.
The thing I continue to love and admire about these books is how dang caring and affectionate these kids are. It doesn't feel like an after-school special, it just feels like some kids who genuinely care about each other and aren't afraid to show it. If a child reads these books and learns to treat their friends this way then that would be a great thing. (Hey, I'm a grown man in my 30s, and maybe I'm even being influenced by this part of the book.)
Now that we're in the second book of this series (?), I was surprised to find that once I picked this up, I felt like it was a comforting and heartwarming read, something I kept wanting to pick up to feel reassured about life. The main characters still have some tough times they are going through, those tough times still feel pretty realistically depicted, and these kids still end up finding an aspirational level of support among their loved ones.
At first, the conflicts that Brian and Ezra were working through wasn't as apparent as in the first book, but they are both a continuation of their earlier struggles (i.e., good to show that problems aren't always so easily solved), and a progressed incarnation of them. Brian is still struggling with panic attacks, and he starts to struggle with depression. Some of these scenes were a little tough to read, they felt true to life, we see how much his friends care and how he reacts, poor kid. Meanwhile Ezra is still trying to help Brian (with a hint of reflection on needing to prioritize his own wants and needs), and is navigating being gay in middle school. Ultimately, I still felt like I was in good hands with the author with regards to how these things were handled, and I was confident (and correct) in thinking that he would bring us to a grounded but satisfying conclusion.
If I have one critique, it's a scene where a character is seeking redemption for the past and But, honestly, the scene played out pretty successfully and it's a very minor critique.
The thing I continue to love and admire about these books is how dang caring and affectionate these kids are. It doesn't feel like an after-school special, it just feels like some kids who genuinely care about each other and aren't afraid to show it. If a child reads these books and learns to treat their friends this way then that would be a great thing. (Hey, I'm a grown man in my 30s, and maybe I'm even being influenced by this part of the book.)
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