This is a story of identity, family, and belonging from the perspective of Lou, a demi/asexual Métis teen, living in small town Alberta. Lou is struggling with a lot: last summer before university, working in the ice cream shack alongside an estranged friend, the financial needs of her family, and then her dad comes crashing back into her life. Lou navigates difficult feelings, confusion of her identity and sexuality, and racism. This powerful contemporary YA novel introduces endearing characters while addressing very real issues in Canada.

If you’re looking for a book by an Indigenous author, I recommend The Summer of Bitter and Sweet.

***Be sure to read Jen’s excellent author’s note about content warnings in the story before diving in.