In her introduction to this collection of essays theorist and philosopher Judith Butler states why an ongoing critique of gender norms in not only necessary but vital: "Not so much to celebrate difference as such but to establish more inclusive conditions for sheltering and maintaining life that resists models of assimilation" (pg 4). She calls for trans, intersex and gender nonconforming people "to be treated with the presumption that their lives are and will be not only livable, but also occasions for flourishing" (pg 4). "The critique of gender norms must be situated within the context of lives as they are lived and must be guided by the question of what maximizes the possibilities for a livable life, and minimizes the possibility of unbearable life or, indeed, social or literal death" (pg 8).

I have no background in philosophy and was unfamiliar with most of the texts and thinkers Butler referenced, as well as some of the academic terms. I still found this a very readable and exciting book. I bought a physical copy so that I could mark it up as I went along, and I anticipate reading it in part or in full again in the future, applying new insights and gaining new meaning.

In reading this book so soon after seeing the movie, it was enviable that I ended up comparing them. The book is less chronological, and less tightly plotted than the film. But whereas the film offers the viewer the exterior of Elio, the book offers an intimate internal portrait. The changing whims of his moods are the main character here, and his relationship with his own sexuality as central, or equally central, as his relationship with Oliver. The beauty of the scenery from the film is lost, but it is made up for by the beauty of the language. In the end, I didn't think the book or the film was better. I came to see them instead as companions.

This book is a stand alone, set on a fictional island off the coast of Scotland, where every fall dangerous carnivorous magical horses wash up to shore. Brave and foolish people capture these horses and try to tame them enough to ride them in a huge race that takes place in November. Hundreds of tourists descend annually to watch the race and place bets; the winner earns a sizable prize money. The main characters are two teenagers, Puck and Sean, who both desperately need to win for different reasons. Naturally, strong feelings develop between the two of them. By the end, the thought of either of them loosing was heartbreaking to me; but there can only be one winner. Stiefvater has openly stated that this is her favorite of her own books and I agree.