Author: M.G. Hennessy

“Sir, I have a book you need to read.”

I can’t say no to a student when they have a book suggestion. After all, it’s because of their recommendations I’ve read some pretty incredible titles the past few years.

After reading the synopsis, the intrigue level went right up. What if you had a secret that could expose you to the worst of school bullying, betray your best friend and cause you to go into hiding?

Enter Shane, a boy who is transitioning and going through the turmoil of a young person having to work through this big decision. At its heart, however, this is a story about friendship and secrets.

The first thing I appreciated is the text is very accessible and the narrator is believable. It gives the reader a glimpse into a world with thoughts someone outside the transgendered community wouldn’t even consider, bringing them down to the emotional level of what is happening.

It’s a fast-paced narrative and while the author slips away from the character periodically, it doesn’t detract too much from the main conflict. This book easily fits on the shelf of any middle-grade classroom (and above) as it pulls on mature themes without pushing beyond the boundary of the young narrator.

Yet, as an adult, there are additional layers to be appreciated–especially those who are parents. So yes, in the end, it was a book I needed to read.