Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

Where to Read

Amazon

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Libby

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Screenwise Verdict

This is the book that proved LGBTQ+ teen romance could be mainstream, joyful, and commercially successful—and a decade later, it still holds up. It's warm without being sappy, funny without trying too hard, and genuinely romantic in a way that makes you remember why you loved YA in the first place.

The blackmail plot gives it stakes, but this isn't a trauma narrative—it's about a kid who wants to control his own story and finds the courage to do it. The email correspondence with Blue is legitimately swoon-worthy, and the mystery of Blue's identity keeps you guessing in the best way.

Some critiques are fair: the cast is pretty white and privileged, and it's not groundbreaking in structure or prose. But for what it is—a feel-good, accessible entry point into LGBTQ+ YA—it delivers. If your teen is ready for romance and identity exploration, this is a solid, safe, and genuinely enjoyable pick. The 10-year anniversary edition with bonus content is a nice touch for fans and newcomers alike.

Age Fit

Best for ages 12-17, especially middle and high schoolers ready for contemporary romance with LGBTQ+ themes. The emotional maturity, high school setting, and romantic focus make it ideal for teens. Younger tweens (10-11) who are advanced readers might enjoy it, but the social dynamics and coming-out narrative resonate most with true adolescents.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

88

A genuinely kind-hearted coming-of-age story that models healthy friendships, supportive family dynamics, and navigating identity with humor and grace. The blackmail subplot creates tension but resolves with emotional maturity. Simon's relationships—with friends, family, and Blue—demonstrate empathy, vulnerability, and growth. The tone is warm without being saccharine, and the pacing feels natural for a teen romance.

Imaginative

72

While not a fantasy or sci-fi premise, the book uses creative storytelling through the email correspondence format between Simon and Blue, which adds mystery and emotional depth. The theatrical backdrop (school musical) and Simon's internal world are vividly rendered. However, it's fundamentally a contemporary realistic fiction piece—it invites emotional imagination and perspective-taking more than world-building or creative problem-solving.

Safe

92

This is an exceptionally safe read for teens. The blackmail plot involves someone threatening to out Simon, which creates emotional stakes but is handled sensitively without graphic content. No violence, sex, gore, or shocking twists. The LGBTQ+ themes are presented matter-of-factly and positively. Some mild language typical of teen dialogue. The emotional tension around being outed may resonate deeply with LGBTQ+ teens but isn't traumatizing—it's validating and ultimately hopeful.

Enriching

86

A landmark book for LGBTQ+ representation in YA lit—one of the first mainstream gay teen romances with a happy ending. It builds empathy, validates queer experiences, and models coming out on one's own terms. Teens learn about navigating identity, consent, friendship dynamics, and standing up for yourself. It's also just genuinely entertaining—funny, swoony, and emotionally satisfying. The 10-year anniversary edition with bonus content (emails, recipes) adds fun extras.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

Genuinely funny and swoony without being preachy—it's a rom-com first, with LGBTQ+ rep that feels natural and joyful
Models healthy coming-out narratives where teens get to control their own stories and timing
The email mystery between Simon and Blue creates genuine romantic tension that keeps pages turning
Supportive family and friends who mess up but ultimately show up—realistic and hopeful
10-year anniversary edition includes bonus emails and Oreo recipes (Simon's signature move), making it feel fresh

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What to Watch For

The blackmail/outing plot could hit hard for LGBTQ+ teens navigating their own coming out—mostly empowering but might stir up anxiety
Some mild language and teen drama (friend conflicts, romantic misunderstandings) typical of the genre
Very focused on a white, middle-class experience—some readers note lack of racial diversity in the cast
Younger middle schoolers (under 12) might not connect with the romantic angst and high school social dynamics

Conversation Starters

"Simon gets blackmailed into keeping his identity secret. Have you ever felt pressure to hide part of yourself? How did that feel?"
"The book shows different ways people react when Simon comes out. What do you think makes someone a good friend in those moments?"
"Simon and Blue fall for each other through emails without knowing who the other person is. What do you think you learn about someone online vs. in person?"
"If you were Simon, would you have handled the blackmail differently? What would you have done?"

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