A review by bookshelvesandtea
The (Un)Popular Vote by Jasper Sanchez

emotional funny inspiring medium-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

5.0

Have you ever thought about running for office? How about running for class president? That’s exactly what Mark does in The (Un)Popular Vote. And turns out the “club français”, which is just an excuse for the queer kids to hang out, can run a presidential campaign like the best political masterminds in the country.

Too bad Mark promised his father to blend in at his new school. Because what’s more important than maintaining a carefully crafted image of their oh so perfect family when you’re a congressman? And Mark, Mark is the exact opposite of what the perfect family image is supposed to be. 

When I was 16 I first told someone about being well, no clue what. All I knew was that I was not a cis woman. I was scared to death. And these few lines from the book spoke to me, because to my friends it also was just that easy. And I didn’t trust it for a single second. 

““I’m transgender,” I try again. “Transmasculine.”
But *** says, “Okay.” Same tone. Same expression. No judgment.
My shoulders roll back, and my spine creaks into alignment. My body is light, buoyant. Giddy with relief and hope—but I can’t trust it.”

If you too are a big fan of YA, especially if you’re queer, do yourself a favour and go read this debut. Even if you’re European like me and have no clue what a class president is supposed to do. If you want to read this novel, please be aware that it does contain depictions of transphobia and homophobia. 
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