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A review by thenovelmaura
The Sky Blues by Robbie Couch
emotional
inspiring
lighthearted
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
5.0
My friend gave me an ARC of this book a few months ago and I fell completely in love with it! Sky is a gay high school senior who, despite being out at school, makes an effort to be as invisible as possible so he won't be bullied by homophobes in his small town of Rock Ledge, Michigan. He's had a crush on Ali for ages, and he and his BFF Bree have been making a long, hilarious list of ways he can maybe, finally, ask Ali to prom. When his promposal plans are leaked to the entire senior class via a racist, homophobic email blast, Sky considers dropping out of school entirely. But a mysterious yearbook photo of his late father inspires Sky and his friends to start a school-wide hunt for the bully and show this town the true meaning of pride.
As you can see from my description, this book deals with topics that may hit close to home for members of the LGBTQIA+ community, such as being kicked out of one's home by a parent, changing one's behavior to act "straight," and persistent bullying. As a straight woman, I appreciated Couch's inclusion of these issues and how Sky learned to stand up for himself as the story progressed. There was also a powerful message that you don't owe anyone your forgiveness, even if they give you a genuine apology.
But more than that, I thought this book was incredibly joyful and heart-warming. Sky had so many amazing role models and friends who rallied around him in his time of need. Having grown up in a white rural town, I often feel the urge to paint it with broad, dismissive strokes, just as Sky thought about Rock Ledge at the beginning of the book. The Sky Blues reminded me that I made some of my best friends there, and that even the negative experiences shaped me into the person I am today. This is a wonderful coming-of-age story that conveys the importance of found family and all the good things that come when you find the courage to be true to yourself.
As you can see from my description, this book deals with topics that may hit close to home for members of the LGBTQIA+ community, such as being kicked out of one's home by a parent, changing one's behavior to act "straight," and persistent bullying. As a straight woman, I appreciated Couch's inclusion of these issues and how Sky learned to stand up for himself as the story progressed. There was also a powerful message that you don't owe anyone your forgiveness, even if they give you a genuine apology.
But more than that, I thought this book was incredibly joyful and heart-warming. Sky had so many amazing role models and friends who rallied around him in his time of need. Having grown up in a white rural town, I often feel the urge to paint it with broad, dismissive strokes, just as Sky thought about Rock Ledge at the beginning of the book. The Sky Blues reminded me that I made some of my best friends there, and that even the negative experiences shaped me into the person I am today. This is a wonderful coming-of-age story that conveys the importance of found family and all the good things that come when you find the courage to be true to yourself.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Homophobia, Racism, and Bullying
Moderate: Car accident
Minor: Transphobia
parental neglect