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A review by nietnoah
The Big Ask by Simon James Green
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
I am not exaggerating when I say that Simon is the funniest YA author out there. His references are PERFECT—seriously, I need whatever he’s on. Beyond the humor, the story is both adorable and relatable. I’ve mentioned it in multiple interviews, but the reason I’ve adored Simon’s books since day one is because of his relatable and realistic characters. As someone who isn’t a hyper-masculine, ridiculously sexy gay guy, it’s incredibly refreshing to read about main characters who are averagely built, a bit awkward, but most importantly, unapologetically themselves. Personality, after all, is what matters most, and Simon’s books continually remind me that you don’t have to fit into a certain box to be the perfect homosexual. I can just be my awkward, nerdy self, and the world will keep spinning.
Aside from the personal connection I have with his writing, he is also just a damn good author. I could praise him for hours about the good he is doing for the LGBTQ+ community (and trust me, I’ve made that very clear over the years), but with each book, his writing gets better and better. His references are up to date and genuinely made me laugh, and his characters are so strong and original. Even the side characters have fully-fledged personalities. Mind you, I finished this book in 1.5 hours and got so attached to the characters that I will now have a sad shower because I miss them. That is how good his writing is. Okay, I might be a little biased, but the reviews don’t lie, okay!
Long story short, I think Simon’s books, even when they get a bit unserious (which I love because humor is everything), consistently teach younger gay teens that they are worthy and enough. Your sexuality is yours alone—you don’t owe anyone an explanation, nor do you have to prove anything to anyone. And I think that is beautiful.
Did I mention he is funny yet? Like, I’m being so serious right now—I’m going to re-read his books again ASAP🙈
Aside from the personal connection I have with his writing, he is also just a damn good author. I could praise him for hours about the good he is doing for the LGBTQ+ community (and trust me, I’ve made that very clear over the years), but with each book, his writing gets better and better. His references are up to date and genuinely made me laugh, and his characters are so strong and original. Even the side characters have fully-fledged personalities. Mind you, I finished this book in 1.5 hours and got so attached to the characters that I will now have a sad shower because I miss them. That is how good his writing is. Okay, I might be a little biased, but the reviews don’t lie, okay!
Long story short, I think Simon’s books, even when they get a bit unserious (which I love because humor is everything), consistently teach younger gay teens that they are worthy and enough. Your sexuality is yours alone—you don’t owe anyone an explanation, nor do you have to prove anything to anyone. And I think that is beautiful.
Did I mention he is funny yet? Like, I’m being so serious right now—I’m going to re-read his books again ASAP🙈