"small town pride" is one of the best lgbtq+ middle grade novels i've read -- authentic representation, a balanced mix of hope and fear, and realistic endings to real issues. i really enjoyed starting the story after jake, the main character, has already come out to his parents and his best friend: the story isn't about him coming out, but how he can be proud and confident in his town. the characters are strong, the writing is easy to fall into, and i loved stamper's discussion of how queer people shouldn't have to move to big cities to have a community that is proud of them and that they're proud to be a part of. "small town pride" shows that pride is created, not found, and you can make it anywhere.

*thanks to the publisher and netgalley for sending me an eARC!*