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A review by serendipitysbooks
Just by Looking at Him by Ryan O'Connell
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
4.25
Just by Looking at Him managed to be funny, often darkly so, while highlighting important issues - like the impact of disability (cerebral palsy) and ableism. It’s an exploration of the intersection of disability and sexuality through the lens of a gay tv writer who has addiction issues. It’s sexually explicit so reader beware. I was sometimes horrified by the blatant ableism and other times pulled up short by issues and situations I personally have never had to consider. Sometimes I was frustrated by Elliott’s self-sabotaging and deceptive behaviour but thankfully his story arc was one of growth. An engaging and propulsive read.
Graphic: Ableism, Alcoholism, and Sexual content