While this isn't my favorite Ness book, the subject matter of this book couldn't be more timely. This is essentially a short novella about coming into your identity, with conversations throughout focusing on what it means to lose your virginity, specifically when you're a gay teen. Ness is a pro at examining these issues in his books, and this book was no different.

I'll be honest, the blacked out squares threw me a bit at the beginning, but really, they're sending a very strong message. Especially given everything that's currently going on with book banning, specifically with books with characters from the LGBTQ+ community. It makes you think about what society deems "acceptable" for teens to read, and would make for such an excellent book discussion. 

The overall story possibly could have benefited from being a little more fleshed out, but it's a quick read and one that's engaging all the way through. The illustration style wasn't necessarily my favorite, but I did appreciate how they complemented the general story. All in all, I am glad to add this to my Ness collection.