Reviews

Idlewild by James Frankie Thomas

Only show reviews with written explanations

swinans's review

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sad medium-paced

3.0

cowgirlcrybaby's review

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DNFing at 61% through. i really tried with this — and will preface that the representation and interesting range of queer perspectives and dilemmas can’t be ignored! i really do think this could be impactful for younger readers struggling with sexual identity….

however! read a bit too YA for my taste, i know the high school cringe and second hand embarrassment was highly intentional but this just didn’t do it for me. maybe because i was not (and will never be, sorry) a “theater kid” that some of this went over my head and overall just didn’t feel super connected to anyone, despite some crossover in very relatable identity struggles. had its moments, but simply not interested in the remaining 39%.

xenomorph's review against another edition

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dark emotional reflective sad tense fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? It's complicated
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

katieuna's review against another edition

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emotional reflective sad fast-paced

5.0

amu_pdf's review against another edition

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5.0

First and foremost, I am a Theo hater. I hate the way that he walks, I hate the way that he talks, I hate the way he dresses. This book starts off slow. I didn’t know I would like it so much until about halfway or so because that’s when it starts to pick up and everything starts making sense. I have complicated feelings about Fay. She is the worst but also I get it. I frequently think I might be trans instead of a lesbian. Reading about Fay’s thoughts and feelings was very relatable and had me contemplating. The author does a great job discussing the different thought processes and experiences of someone struggling with their sexuality and gender. He does an amazing job with the nuances involved and how there isnt a cut-and-dry answer. I love Nell also. She is such a lesbian and I am obsessed. She truly encapsulated the intense homoerotic friendship that ruins your life. I’m glad I didn’t give up on this book because I thought I might have to in the beginning. It ended up being one of the best books I’ve read so far this year.