Ever zone out? Ever zone out and volunteer for something without knowing what it is? Ever zone out and accidentally sign up for a Purity Pledge because you were just following your lifelong crush?

That’s exactly what happens to Del. After realizing what he’s done, Del sets a plan in motion to FINALLY snag his dream girl. But the deeper in Del gets, the more complicated his schemes become, and he begins to lose himself and his beliefs in the chase.

Y’all! Y’ALL! This might be one of my favorite books of the year! More Lamar Giles forever and ever, please!

This book is witty and complex. It covers toxic masculinity, sexuality, religion, assault, and I’m sure a bunch of other things I’m forgetting to mention because I’m just that hyped on this book! Honestly, when you have that many topics on one plate, the story can easily suffer and tend to feel very after-school-specially. But, nope! Not this one! Giles covers a myriad of relevant subjects that feels genuine to 16 year-old Del aka my new favorite YA protagonist.

But Del wasn’t the only character who I couldn’t help rooting for—it happened with almost every single one (even some of the shittier dudes, but I’m rooting for everybody Black so let us pray for their growth). I may be a TEENY bit biased because this story takes place in my neck of the woods (Commonwealth University is based on my alma mater—waddup, RAMNATION!) but I’m fairly certain this story could’ve taken place on Mars and I still woulda repped this hard for it.

Educators should seriously consider using this book as a teaching tool. Bring it up with your principals, have it in your classrooms, recommend it to your kids. Comprehensive sex education is crucial and kids need to feel comfortable enough to come to adults if they want to seek out safe sex practices.

⁣(reviews can also be found on my Instagram, @rvareader)