Autoboyography by Christina Lauren

Half Jewish and Bisexual, Tanner Scott lives in one of the most accepting places in the US, Palo Alto, California. When his parents announce they are moving to Provo, Utah, the epicenter of the Later Day Saints, a conservative Mormon group that condemns homosexuality, Tanner's uber accepting parents warn him not to come out to anybody, for fear of his safety. Tanner, at the urging of his best friend Autumn, joins the Seminar at his high school, a writing program where students must write a novel in 4 months. What Tanner does not count on is Sebastian Brother, the epitome of a good Mormon boy, involved in his church, a famous writer as a result of the Seminar, and gorgeous looking too boot. As Tanner's connection with Sebastian grows, Sebastian struggles with his feelings for Tanner, and the expectations of his church, community, and family.

Autoboyography is a must read for any devout queer teen. Christina Lauren does a beautiful job of portraying the struggles of coming to terms with yourself when everyone else has such strong expectations of who you should be. The conflict of this book was Superb! There is lots of angst, so readers looking for a light, fluffy book, steer clear. This book made me realize, as a queer teen, how lucky I am to live in a community that supports me for who I am, and made me think about the struggles of teens who love their religion that maybe doesn't love them back. The angst, and longing, and heartbreak that Tanner experiences along with the inner turmoil of Sebastian tugged at my heartstrings and will be sure to enthrall any reader lucky enough to meet these two.

Reviewed by Claire., Grade 9
Montrose Library