A review by ashley_mrose530
Openly Straight by Bill Konigsberg

emotional funny reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

This is a really good book about internalized homophobia, who someone really is with or without their labels, and finding yourself and who you want to be.
Rafe's struggle with all of this throughout this book is so poignant and something that all queer people struggle with. You don't want to be seen for something you're not, but you don't want to be seen only as the "gay one" either which is why we have so many people who don't want to have to come out with a public statement or label themselves today.
There are so many queer people that just want to be seen as people, but because the world we live in is so heteronormative, you can't do that without everyone thinking you're completely straight.
This book makes you think about that which makes it a great book for both straight and queer people and I would definitely recommend it to everyone.