Author: Brandy Colbert
Publisher & Date: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, 8 Aug 2017
Page Count: 353 pages
ISBN: 978-0316349017
Age/Reading Level: 14-18/Grades 9-12
Representation: LGBTQIA+, mental illness
Other Information:
Book Information
When Suzette comes home to Los Angeles from her boarding school in New England, she isn’t sure if she’ll ever want to go back. L.A. is where her friends and family are (as well as her crush, Emil). And her stepbrother, Lionel, who has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, needs her emotional support.
But as she settles into her old life, Suzette finds herself falling for someone new…the same girl her brother is in love with. When Lionel’s disorder spirals out of control, Suzette is forced to confront her past mistakes and find a way to help her brother before he hurts himself–or worse.
Challenges & Bans
This book is challenged particularly for its portrayal of a homosexual relationship & sexuality, discussions of racism, perceived promotion of condoms and promiscuity, its perceived lack of respect for religious beliefs, and for “promoting and encouraging” a gay lifestyle.
Specific Challenges*:
Awards & Accolades
Stonewall Book Award (2018), American Library Association Best Fiction for Young Adults (2018), Rainbow List (2018)
Best Books of 2017 lists named to: Kirkus Reviews, Buzzfeed, Booklist
