A review by amu_pdf
Idlewild by James Frankie Thomas

5.0

First and foremost, I am a Theo hater. I hate the way that he walks, I hate the way that he talks, I hate the way he dresses. This book starts off slow. I didn’t know I would like it so much until about halfway or so because that’s when it starts to pick up and everything starts making sense. I have complicated feelings about Fay. She is the worst but also I get it. I frequently think I might be trans instead of a lesbian. Reading about Fay’s thoughts and feelings was very relatable and had me contemplating. The author does a great job discussing the different thought processes and experiences of someone struggling with their sexuality and gender. He does an amazing job with the nuances involved and how there isnt a cut-and-dry answer. I love Nell also. She is such a lesbian and I am obsessed. She truly encapsulated the intense homoerotic friendship that ruins your life. I’m glad I didn’t give up on this book because I thought I might have to in the beginning. It ended up being one of the best books I’ve read so far this year.