Aiden Navarro is hoping the summer passes slowly because at the other end he will be entering high school which has him dreading continued attacks by bullies and few friends. He is at a kind of crossroads in many ways. First, going from a Catholic school education into a public school setting means he might have a chance to start fresh but most likely not. He is pretty sure he doesn't like girls with the exception of Violet, his pen pal, but he's also sure he hates boys since they are mean and disgusting. It would be nice to have some answers but so far he hasn't found any.
Maybe a week at scout camp will help Aiden relax and forget what is in his future. He has always liked Boy Scout activities. He enjoys tent camping and canoeing. He knows how to gather wood and build a decent fire. This summer he learns that archery sounds pretty cool, but he sucks at it. He also knows it's a guarantee that he'll have to deal with bullies and being called a faggot, but that seems to go with the territory.
One positive is meeting Elias his tent mate. They become fast friends. Elias gives good advice, even in archery, and he stands up for Aiden with some of the bullies. The downside is Aiden might just like Elias a little too much. Some vivid dreams have him wondering just exactly where their relationship could go.
Author and illustrator Mike Curato patterns this well done graphic novel on his own personal history. He recalls how difficult it was to come to terms with being gay as a young teen, and he pours his experience out on the pages. Readers of all sexual preferences will find something to relate to in this story of self-discovery and growth.
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