I'll be honest--as I read this book I could feel my apprehension growing. Reading stories from teen boys' perspectives where I know their feelings about girls will be discussed are tricky reads for me. I've read books where the male protagonist's thoughts are toxic and that isn't really addressed, and it reminds me why I tried to give up seeing men as much as possible in college. I will say that this book, while I felt uncomfortable at moments, does not leave toxic masculinity as a positive thing. It was worth the awkward moments, because I needed to hear where Del was to see where he would grow.

I listened to this book, so I'm not 100% on how some of the character's names are spelled, but Cheyenne was a particular favorite of mine, as well as Cressie.

Some reviewers have noted mixed feelings about the pastor character, and I do agree, although I also think that is very true to life.