LGBT+ Representation

[[deleted user]]

I remember the first time reading this book, I squealed internally while reading about Ari's realization of feelings for Dante. I picked up this book knowing nothing about it. My realization about Ari's sexuality came at the same time as Ari. When that moment came, I thought "it's so obvious, how did I not realize it sooner". It's how I imagine Ari felt in that moment too. I don't think I've ever read a book with an LGBT+ protagonist before, because I had never come across one before. To have two gay (possibly bi?) people of color and see them fall for each other is so important to teenagers who may be in the closet or doesn't realize they are in the closet. While we have a ways to go when it comes to diversity on all levels, this books is a peek into how beautiful it could be when all stories can be told.

[Steph]

I also knew nothing about this book when I picked it up, and if it were not the book club then I would not have. I really loved how Ari started having feelings for Dante, and like you said I should have seen it coming but I was so shocked by it. This was also the first book that I read with an LGBT protagonist, and it made me happy because it was such a positive light with the discussions of LBGT. I also loved that for the most part the love story was kind of a side note, that just sort of happened and the friendship that they had was the forefront.

[Angela]

I read this book back in December actually, and I was so excited to discover the LGBTQIA+ aspects of it, because I had no idea going in that it was a book that included these elements. I was really delighted by this, and I also was really appreciative of the fact that both protagonists were gay/bi people of color.

[Ellen]

I read this book without really knowing about the LGBT representation. I loved this book, for a lot of reasons. I read it in about three days and enjoyed it so much. It was such an easy read. The feelings jumped of the pages and I loved it. I have to say that Dante and Ari are lovely charecters to follow. I loved spending every moment with them. This was such a fun read. I have to say this will be one of my favorite books.

[Caroline]

Okay so I just finished this book (after starting it just yesterday) and I am still in the grip of end-of-book emotions. I thought I was going to cry out of joy when Ari got his act together! I love the friendship between Ari and Dante and how Dante is so kind and persistent! Honestly, nothing gets me like supportive LGBT+ relationships between teenagers.