An engrossing and contemplative YA contemporary…
Sims makes his debut with this poignant YA which tells the story of 17-year-old Carver Goodman as he struggles to come to terms with his sexuality while grappling with questions of self-doubt and identity issues. Carver is a gentle teenager who is trying to score good grades in his junior year while ignoring relentless bullying at the hand of a pair of school bullies. When lovely Jocelynn comes into Carver’s life, he gets the courage to overcome the challenges life has thrown his way. Sims’s simple, accessible prose give windows into Carver’s life as he struggles with questions about his identity and sexuality while trying to deal with the harassment. Central to the narrative are Carver’s friends, Ava and Heather, who are richly drawn. Jocelynn is endearing. Carver’s decision to finally take a stand against his tormentors is portrayed beautifully, underscoring how even a tiny action can change the course of one’s life. This is a moving debut.
Getting By
By Jaire Sims
Pub date August 30, 2020
ASIN B08D6V3D54
Price $5.18 (USD) Kindle edition
