The first 75% of this book is decent, but when Big comes out everything is just too easy with interpersonal relationships to be real. That is disappointing. I am glad he saw himself for the first time in the mirror, BUT usually not everyone you tell is super accepting, happy, and just cool with it. Also, adults don't know how to just magically say the right things.

This is one of those stories that I enjoyed more and more as I got further into the book. I was quite surprised at the turn of events since I had not read anything about the storyline so I won't spoil that for those of you that also don't research the book before reading it. I would say due to the more mature themes of death, spirits and gender identity that a younger person should be a mature reader of around ten before tackling this subject matter. This really is a great story of family and friendships that is worthy of the awards it has already won. I'd recommend it especially to those that enjoy a good coming of age story.

absolutely adored reading this

I loved the concept of this book and think that it is a GREAT mirror or window for kids to read about someone’s experience coming out as transgender. That said, I think I just wasn’t the target audience for this book. It’s definitely written for younger readers, so I found it a bit slow and uneventful.

WOW! This book is about a kid who is grieving the loss of a favorite uncle during the summer before middle school starts. One friend is all about making a fresh start when the new school year starts. This is a story about finding yourself and being true to who you are, even if you aren't sure yet who that is. Oh, and there are ghosts.
I might use this as an end of year read aloud as I am sending kids off to the next new thing in their lives, or possibly a mid year book to open the discussion about being yourself.
READ THIS BOOK!