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A review by atvreads
Always the Almost by Edward Underhill
5.0
Always the Almost is a love letter to trans joy, coming of age narratives, classical music, and I recommend this book enough!
The author mentions in their note that trans and queer teens experience so much “Not Joy” in their lives that his focus in telling Miles’ story was to put the joy front and center—not necessarily Miles’ trans identity.
From the beginning, readers will empathize with Miles and his quest to prove himself…to himself. He’s surrounded by people who believe him when he tells them who he is, but Miles remains his own harshest critic. Not only is this a common trope with young adults, but it’s an entirely universal experience that lets Miles’ struggle transcend the page and leap onto the sofa next to you.
Underhill’s writing is personable, quiet, and engaging. The entourage of friends and family members couple with a tone of closeness allow the reader to go beyond a casual observer and truly feel like an additional party to each scene.
10/10 this high school English teacher highly recommends all libraries and teachers add this beautiful tome of queer joy to their schools.
The author mentions in their note that trans and queer teens experience so much “Not Joy” in their lives that his focus in telling Miles’ story was to put the joy front and center—not necessarily Miles’ trans identity.
From the beginning, readers will empathize with Miles and his quest to prove himself…to himself. He’s surrounded by people who believe him when he tells them who he is, but Miles remains his own harshest critic. Not only is this a common trope with young adults, but it’s an entirely universal experience that lets Miles’ struggle transcend the page and leap onto the sofa next to you.
Underhill’s writing is personable, quiet, and engaging. The entourage of friends and family members couple with a tone of closeness allow the reader to go beyond a casual observer and truly feel like an additional party to each scene.
10/10 this high school English teacher highly recommends all libraries and teachers add this beautiful tome of queer joy to their schools.