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A review by cemeterygay
Cemetery Boys by Aiden Thomas
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? It's complicated
5.0
I do not think I can emphasize how much I adored this book.
As a main character, Yadriel resonated with me in a way that few main characters do. Not only is this one of the few books I've read that has a Latine trans main character but it deals with that aspect of his identity so well. I love how well-integrated the cultural elements are in this book and how it is allowed to be explored in relationship with Yadriel's gender identity and sexuality. Julian is also an amazing character, I only wish we had a bit more time to see his relationship with his family. The relationship Julian and Yadriel had was incredibly sweet.
While not revolutionary or that shocking I really enjoyed Yadriel's journey discovering what happened to Julian and how it related the death of Miguel. I found the ending to be pretty satisfying although some aspects weren't the most believable.
The magic system was explained quite well and Dia de Los Muertos was integrated incredibly well into the worldbuilding. I do think though that if you are not familiar with any of the cultural elements, there will be a learning curve for you which absolutely isn't a flaw but is something to note.
I also really loved the full cast of characters in this book and I thought Aiden Thomas did a pretty great job in helping to differentiate the characters.
Of course, I would be remiss not to mention how much I adore Thomas's writing style and prose. It is incredibly engaging while still being suitable for their target audience.
I will say that this book does trend to the younger side of YA so it may be hit or miss for adult readers.
Beyond that, I would absolutely recommend this book to others.
As a main character, Yadriel resonated with me in a way that few main characters do. Not only is this one of the few books I've read that has a Latine trans main character but it deals with that aspect of his identity so well. I love how well-integrated the cultural elements are in this book and how it is allowed to be explored in relationship with Yadriel's gender identity and sexuality. Julian is also an amazing character, I only wish we had a bit more time to see his relationship with his family. The relationship Julian and Yadriel had was incredibly sweet.
While not revolutionary or that shocking I really enjoyed Yadriel's journey discovering what happened to Julian and how it related the death of Miguel. I found the ending to be pretty satisfying although some aspects weren't the most believable.
The magic system was explained quite well and Dia de Los Muertos was integrated incredibly well into the worldbuilding. I do think though that if you are not familiar with any of the cultural elements, there will be a learning curve for you which absolutely isn't a flaw but is something to note.
I also really loved the full cast of characters in this book and I thought Aiden Thomas did a pretty great job in helping to differentiate the characters.
Of course, I would be remiss not to mention how much I adore Thomas's writing style and prose. It is incredibly engaging while still being suitable for their target audience.
I will say that this book does trend to the younger side of YA so it may be hit or miss for adult readers.
Beyond that, I would absolutely recommend this book to others.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Transphobia, Grief, Death of parent, Blood, and Death
Moderate: Xenophobia and Dysphoria
Minor: Deadnaming