Sometimes, when I wake up in the morning, I imagine that day is the day I start over. Iâm going to walk into school and be someone else, someone loud and funny, with a posse of friends âŚ
Sixteen-year-old Arden Grey is struggling. Her mom has left their family, her father and younger brother wonât talk about it, and a classmate, Tanner, keeps harassing her about her sexualityâwhich isnât even public. (She knows she likes
girls romantically, but she thinks she might be asexual.) At least sheâs got her love of film photography and her best and only friend Jamie to help her cope.
But when Jamie starts dating his first girlfriend, suddenly he isnât so reliable.
Arden starts feeling insecure about their friendship. She starts to wonder if sheâs jealous or if Jamieâs relationship with Caroline is somehow unhealthyâand it makes her reconsider how much of her relationship with her absent mom wasnât okay, too.
Filled with big emotions, first loves, and characters navigating toxic relationships, Ray Stoeveâs honest and nuanced novel is about finding your place in the world and seeking out the love and community that you deserve.