2020
WISE Score
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.
4.6
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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