A Texas-sized YA romance about a trans boy going 'stealth' and the cheerleader who sees him, with plenty of heart and some heavy-hitting reality checks.
Stay Gold
book
2020
82%
WISE Score
4.6
Amazon
A Texas-sized YA romance about a trans boy going 'stealth' and the cheerleader who sees him, with plenty of heart and some heavy-hitting reality checks.
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Screenwise Verdict
Tobly McSmith doesn't pull punches here. This isn't a sanitized, 'everything is fine' story; it’s a look at the grit required to exist as a trans kid in a place that isn't ready for you.
It’s a solid, modern YA read that manages to be a 'cute romance' while simultaneously being a bit of a gut-punch. If your teen is looking for something that feels real and deals with actual stakes rather than just 'who's going to prom,' this is a winner. Just be ready for some heavy conversations afterward.
Age Fit
Best for 14 and up. The themes of identity and the specific instances of violence and transphobia are written for a high school audience that can handle some heavy emotional lifting.
WISE Breakdown
Wholesome
75
The book centers on identity and finding genuine connection in a harsh environment. While it deals with some very dark social dynamics, the core relationship is grounded in mutual support rather than toxicity.
Imaginative
70
It's a contemporary YA romance, so it follows some familiar beats, but it offers a fresh, necessary perspective on the 'stealth' trans experience in a traditional high school setting.
Safe
65
Contains heavy content that could be triggering, including transphobic bullying, a physical assault, and mentions of suicidal ideation. It's safe for its intended teen audience but not for younger kids who might stumble into the heavier scenes.
Enriching
90
Excellent for building empathy and understanding the complexities of gender identity. It challenges readers to think about the cost of fitting in versus the value of being seen.
Parent Info
✓
Why It Might Be Great
Authentic trans representation written by a trans author.
Tackles the 'stealth' experience with nuance—showing both the safety it provides and the isolation it creates.
The chemistry between Pony and Georgia feels earned and real, not just a plot device.
Moves beyond simple 'coming out' tropes to explore what happens next in a hostile environment.
⚠
What to Watch For
Graphic scenes of transphobic bullying and a specific scene of physical assault that can be hard to read.
Discussion of suicidal ideation and past trauma.
High school social dynamics that can feel intentionally suffocating and frustrating.
Conversation Starters
"Why did Pony feel like being 'stealth' was his only option for a fresh start?"
"Georgia has her own secrets and pressures—how did that help her connect with Pony?"
"What does the phrase 'Stay Gold' mean to you when it comes to keeping your integrity in a place that wants you to change?"
"How did the side characters' reactions to Pony's identity reflect different types of allyship or prejudice?"
