Chad Lucas

Brian has always been anxious and socially challenged. But things get even worse when he and his little brother are put into foster care. Brian's anxiety becomes worse, his family seems to be falling apart and his father is on the run.

There are some serious issues explored in this book. Although it's rated at a middle-grade level, it would probably interested many YA readers. The issues are explored in a way that is detailed enough to be clear and gentle enough to be caring.

Brian is a lovely show more character. He loves his little brother and is very protective of him during the move into foster care. Of course, he's confused about his father leaving the family behind and he's hurt by his mother's suicide attempt. Like I said, some heavy issues!

The other main character in the book is Ezra. Ezra is a great character; he is quite intriguing. He's the kind of guy we all know, friendly with everyone, and seems to be comfortable with himself. Except, the thing is, behind the smile Ezra is working a lot out. One of the key things he's trying to understand is the way he feels about Brian.

Sexual Identity is explored in this book but well within the context of a middle-grader's experience. Chad Lucas writes Ezra exceptionally well - exploring his feelings, his fear of labeling himself, and the way he wonders how his friends will feel. Lucas also writes with finesse about micro-aggressions and homophobic statements that young people will often use simply because it's part of their vocabulary or because it's an accepted part of their senses of humor. The way that Lucas addresses this will really enable readers to have a serious look at their own language without feeling threatened or called out.

I also really enjoyed the progression of their friendship and the fact that they came to no life-changing conclusions regarding one another. This was a refreshing and well-written story. show less

** spoiler alert ** Really great dual perspective book -- with a ton going on -- imminent parental incarceration, parental suicide attempt, anxiety, bullying, foster system, crushes, coming out, panic attacks, friendship dynamics, caring for a sibling -- also, funny dialogue and friends who crack each other up. I love that this is an all-boy cast for the most part, and that it's also pretty respectful about girl classmates. I love that so many people in here are trying to help, and some of show more them are actually successful at it when they slow down and listen. There's a lot of heartbreak in here, but also a lot of showing up. show less

A fun, creepy, and heartfelt story about Bones--a Black boy, ace pitcher, and protective older brother with trauma in his past--moving to a new town. He becomes friends with a lively group, including Kyle, who is on the autistic spectrum and who struggles with issues of his own. When the adults in the town are slowly "zombified," Bones and his friends must band together to root out and fight the menace. With great Stranger Things vibes and a nuanced and emotional exploration of friendship show more and dark emotions, this is an excellent choice for all ages. show less

Honestly, I wanted a slightly less convoluted storyline, but this book is great. Particular strengths -- boy friendships, excellent autistic representation, excellent coverage of the effects of anger and fear, fantastic Black representation, great characters, scary technology and a delicious slice of baseball. It's also wicked Canadian, so I was amused to see so many references to Tim Horton's and a shoutout to Donair. Good at bringing the creep factor, too.