A review by silver_lining_in_a_book
Golden Boys by Phil Stamper

funny hopeful inspiring lighthearted relaxing slow-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

4.0

 

You were always amazing. And I’m sorry if I ever fed into your insecurities or anxieties or made you feel like you needed to change. You never needed reinventing. You know that now, I hope. The person you were tonight, the person you’ve been all summer - he’s perfect.

An absolutely adorable, wholesome coming-of-age YA story following four very different queer boys during their first summer apart. I really loved these characters, but I do think I would have enjoyed it more if I had read it earlier - it would have been such an important read when I was 14 or 15 to help me accept the fact that I didn't know what I wanted to do with my life, I felt like I was unable to step away from the friends I already had and I was so concerned about never having been in a relationship. I do not want my age to impact my rating of the book, so while my current enjoyment is closer to a 3/5 stars, I am happy to settle for 4/5 stars as I think this could be a very valuable book for many young people, particularly in their early teens.