Every year from 2 to 12 Chandler students are admitted to a writing workshop called The Circle, led by Professor Douglas. The students are required to become family to each other, as well as critique partners. The story is told in the five students' alternating voices. Beth is an anxious townie, Spence a rich kid from NYC with a white dad and Indian supermodel mom, Ramin has fled Iran's sexuality repression, Brunson took care of her family while her mother battled cancer, and Freddy is a...pole vaulter. They're all water signs. (Professor Douglas is a lesbian)

It's like a group coming-of-age story, and it doesn't into the typical traps/tropes. There are mean kids (and adults), but Circle teens are genuinely committed and to one another. Also just about everyone is queer.

I want to draw attention, as well, to the book's content warning, which is also genuine and kind.

This book contains descriptions of sexual abuse, physical abuse, homophobia, and hazing. I tried to portray these issues with sensitivity, but please proceed with caution and care. My hope is that this story will help those who have experienced these traumas to feel less alone. If you need help, there are resources listed in the back of the book.