I only read this book because of the StoryGraph Genre Challenge prompt "read a middle grade book with queer representation." I was dreading this one the most, because I assumed a middle grade book would be "beneath" me and I would get bored reading it. I only picked it because a quick Google search said it fit the criteria, and the audiobook was available from my library on Libby. The audiobook narration is fine, not overly performative or anything, and felt "invisible" in that it didn't get in the way of the story which I really liked. It really felt like the character was narrating, that it was truly Bug's inner monologue, not too flashy or self-indulgent.

The book itself is beautifully written. While I was a bit bored in the first half (it felt a bit cliché at first), I absolutely loved the second half of the book. Going in, I had no idea what this book was about, and I think that's the best way to approach this story. It's a sad story with a happy ending and a lot of emotional moments (it literally made me cry), and it's short too. While I'm definitely not the target audience, I was pleasantly surprised, and strongly recommend reading it if you're interested! I think if you don't know what the book is about, it will have a greater emotional impact on you, so I suggest not reading anything about it and just dive in. Go along with Bug on this journey of grief and self-discovery!