The Brightsiders

Gr 9 Up—Set in the fast pace of Hollywood, rockstar drummer Emmy King, 17, just can't seem to get it right. Always caught up in drama with her parents and friends, the paparazzi have a field day when Emmy ends up in the hospital after a hard night of underage drinking. A few months later she is on stage and coming out as a bisexual. She eventually falls for Alfie, her irresistible, genderfluid band mate, which leads to a relationship that is physically mature. Emma is a complex, multifaceted character who doesn't always make the right decisions, but she proves that relationships can be complicated regardless of one's sexuality. The author adeptly captures the essence and confusion that young people may go through when trying to figure out their identities. This inclusive romance features multiple LGBTQ+ protagonists, including a nonbinary character who uses the pronouns they/them. The frankness and details of Emmy's sexual experiences make this a better choice for older readers.