Nash Summers

My jaw has been hanging open almost since the first page. And I'm still stunned, expressionless.

Wow. Beauty. Power. A unique and fiercely perfect boy.

The taste of the words, the descriptions in this book. Of a small town called Heaven. Of a boy's special view of the world. Of another boy's pain and long-lasting demons screaming at him. And how over the years lightning finds them time and again.

Letters, images, colors, emotions, and an indelible connection.

This is a must read that will never show more leave my heart. show less

4.5 stars.
I can see why some people don't like this, but I really like the characters. I couldn't believe how involved I got in the book. I would look, and it would be oh, I've already read 40%, and then (what felt like) a couple of minutes later oh, I'm at 70%. Definitely sorrowful, but well written with a happy ending.

Jude suffers from extreme OCD and social anxiety. He doesn't venture out much, oft confined to his apartment. But when a new guy, Devin, moves in across the hall and seems intent on interacting with Jude, he begins to see a reason to venture beyond his apartment walls.

I'm definitely not a fan of those stories where Guy A's troubles all magically melt away because Guy B steps into his life, and fear not--this is not one of those stories. The interplay between Jude and Devin is interesting and show more intriguing, genuine and unique. Devin may give Jude both a reason to reach out and support to do so, but Jude offers just as much in the way of challenge to Devin and helping him to grow. A short, sweet read and definitely recommended. show less

Well, shit. That started out with me unsure if I liked Maps, quickly transitioned to me totally into the story and how it evoked naive childhood memories, and then it ended with a sweet scene that tied it all together, and made me immediately think "Five stars!" with a smile on my face.

Loved this little story about first love. Accurate, quirky, cute, and I highly recommend it :)

I really, really, really want to see what happens to Maps when he grows up. He is a gem, and I want more of his show more story. I'll be on the lookout.

Oh yes, and I have so much love for this cover! It is gorgeous. show less