This book warmed my bitter midwestern heart. I grew up in Indiana, and Stamper does such an excellent job of portraying that midwest how I remember it- the feeling of wanting to know what else is out there, being so excited to leave your hometown, and how nothing else ever really feels like home. I'll forever have a complicated relationship with the midwest, but this book reminded me of so many of the excellent things and memories I have from my time there.

This book belongs in high school classrooms everywhere. It sends such an important, relatable message- not knowing what the hell you're doing in and after high school is okay. I remember the pressure these kids feel through most of the book, and it was so refreshing seeing them figure things out for themselves and learning to live the lives they wanted in such stressful, constantly evolving times in their lives.

This book just made me feel all warm and fuzzy for the best parts of my youth, and I truly think it should be required high school reading. I loved it.