A review by maxgardner
This Is Why They Hate Us by Aaron H. Aceves

emotional funny hopeful lighthearted reflective medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• 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 fun, humorous, heartwarming coming-of-age story that manages to channel that chaotic, angsty energy of the teenage years into a narrative that is fresh and poignant. Aceves has a sharp voice that feels confident in what he's going for; the story is rooted in reality, tackling mature themes, but relishes and thrives in the absurd, as some of the best coming-of-age stories do. It's also always refreshing to read a story about a queer kid where the primary dramatic plot points don't hinge on identity acceptance. I liked all the characters, laughed out loud quite a bit, and definitely teared up at times too.