renkenreads 's review for:

Dear Mothman by Robin Gow

4.25

emotional hopeful reflective 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: Yes

---

I struggle to find the words to explain this book. I think it is a beautiful piece on finding yourself. Noah, a middle school trans boy, has lost his best friend to a car accident. In his grief, he begins to write letters to Mothman. In doing so he begins to share parts of himself with others that he never expected to, like the name he prefers and the pronouns he wants to use. It’s a journey of discovery and grief. But most importantly it is a metaphor for how trans children are outcasted and made to feel monstrous. Gow does an amazing job making Mothman a beautiful and graceful creature, echoing how Noah grows into himself, despite how others may perceive them. 

---

Content Warnings

Moderate: Bullying, Deadnaming