'Jamie' by L.D. Lapinski

This book will change lives. It would have changed mine.

Jamie is a non-binary kid living their best life, having the best time with their two best friends and playing video games before their world changes forever when suddenly they have to choose which High School to go to. But both of the schools in Jamie's town are split between genders, boys or girls. So where does some-one who identifies as neither go?

Wow, this book. This book is incredible. This story will connect with so many young kids who need this story. I didn't come out as non-binary until I was 26 but I think my life would have been very different if this book was around when I was little.

Jamie, their friends and family all feel so real. Their parents are so scared for their child and sometimes say the wrong thing and those sections were hard to read but the love for Jamie is insanely strong. Ash and Daisy are Jamie's best friends, every-one needs a Ash & Daisy in their lives, two insanely strong allies & mates who love you so much but aren't afraid to call you out.

A stand out relationship in the story is that between Jamie and their brother, that relationship just melted my heart. And God if I had met someone like Stevie when I was Jamie's age my whole world would have changed.

Something I adored in this book was the 'Jamie's Guides' in-between each chapter! They were so useful and lovely, often asking questions about pronouns etc. Spoiler alert to those that think kids shouldn't be reading about gender identities THEY ARE ALREADY THINKING ABOUT THESE THINGS AND THAT'S OKAY. The guide about dysphoria & euphoria were standouts and will be so helpful for any kids experiencing it.

This book shouts from the rooftops (of council buildings) that you are not alone no matter how scary everything feels. It needs to be in every school library and required reading for parents, regardless of how their child identifies.

A beautiful story with loveable characters, so much heart and passion. This book will have you crying and cheering every step of the way. Thank you L.D. Lapinski.