Book Review: Boy Meets Boy by David Levithan
When I first caught wind of David Levithan’s Boy Meets Boy, I was immediately drawn in by its whimsical premise: a high school where cheerleaders ride Harleys and the homecoming queen is a transgender woman named Infinite Darlene. It sounded like a delightful departure from the daily grind of typical YA narratives. As a reader who cherishes stories that challenge normativity, I was curious to see how Levithan, known for his emotional depth and relatable characters, would blend comedy, romance, and the vibrant complexities of adolescence into one narrative.
The story revolves around Paul, an openly gay sophomore navigating the ups and downs of first love, friendship, and self-discovery in this wonderfully accepting world. The charm of Paul’s high school is not merely its colorful characters but the dynamic friendships he maintains—most notably with his best friends, Tony and Joni. As their lives intertwine amidst a backdrop of dramatic teenage odyssey, Paul’s whirlwind romance with Noah takes center stage. Yet, like any high school experience, things get complicated as Paul fumbles to win back Noah after initially blowing it.
Levithan crafts his narrative with a refreshing lightness that mirrors the exuberance of high school love. The writing flows effortlessly, creating a fast-paced yet emotionally resonant story. He intertwines poignant moments with humor, effectively capturing the absurdity and sincerity of teenage existence. One particularly touching subplot involves Tony, who grapples with his ultra-religious parents’ expectations—a reflection of real struggles that many still face today.
What truly enchanted me was how Levithan introduced the cast of characters. Yes, they embody quirks that might seem fantastical—like a gay-straight alliance focused on teaching dance—but the underlying emotions and experiences they present feel universal. One scene that stood out vividly is when Paul and Noah exchange notes during class—reminding me of my own teenage crushes and the butterflies that come with them. Levithan’s ability to anchor these often outrageous scenarios in authentic emotional resonance is a testament to his skill as a storyteller.
"Sometimes everything needs to fall apart before it can really fit together right," Paul reflects, and this notion resonates deeply, speaking to the heart of adolescence and the messy journey of young love. The narrative is both a love letter to the LGBTQ+ community and a reminder of the universality of friendship, acceptance, and self-love.
In conclusion, Boy Meets Boy is an uplifting read for anyone—teens, adults, LGBTQ+ or straight. It’s a book that fills your heart with joy and hope while sparking thoughts about the world we love to envision. If you enjoy stories that bring a sense of warmth wrapped in humor, if you seek characters who leap off the page with vibrancy, or if you yearn for narratives that celebrate the complexities of love, then this book is a must-read. This story left me reflecting on my romantic experiences and the power of acceptance—fostering a feeling that while our world isn’t perfect, there’s beauty in striving for something greater.