I don’t remember who put I Wish You All the Best by Mason Deaver on my radar, but when I saw it at the library, I knew I had to pick it up. Of course, I’ll read just about anything that looks like it has queer characters, especially if there are queer brown characters.

After Ben comes out to their parents as non-binary, they’re thrown out of the house. Thankfully, they’re able to get in contact with their older sister, who they haven’t seen in long time. Ben struggles with anxiety, depression, and having been abandoned both by their parents and by their sister, which comes out through therapy.

At their new school, they try to keep a low profile, which is hard when their school guide decides to befriend them. Ben’s artistic prowess and the trust of their art teacher keeps them going and allows for the necessary creative outlet.

A turning point in the novel revolves around Ben’s art, their parents, and their sister. Once out of the heart of darkness, it seems like a better life isn’t completely unattainable.

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#bookaday I Wish You All the Best by Mason Deaver #SNRtbs It’s been a while since I’ve really wanted to dive into a book at work – I Wish You All the Best made me miss all the time I spent reading in front of my students. I loved this story. My heart broke for Ben and their relationship with their parents and as they dealt with depression, anxiety, and abandonment. Ben and Nathan’s friendship made me happy – especially the ways they interacted physically – with handholding and such – that is usually thought of as taboo between male-presenting people. Definitely worth the binge read. #stickynotereviews

A post shared by eli oldham (@thebooksupplier) on Aug 26, 2019 at 2:47pm PDT