So, this book. What can I say about this book? It sent me on a rollercoaster of emotions. I know that this is such a cliche saying, but it did…not all positive. Although, with some reflection, this book is now one of my favourites.
One of my favoured details about this novel is how it operates as a love letter to one’s self, as opposed to a traditional love story. Marty, an anxious but ambitious and talented teen, learns to love, and accept himself as he battles his way through religious judgement, self-hatred, toxic relationships and the prospect of lingering romance.
Marty’s story is honest, sad and raw, in some parts, and many moments of this book had me pausing to think. It takes you on an honest journey with the main characters. When I was around three quarters through this story, I found myself chucking the book up the wall in annoyance. Then I grabbed a glass of wine, and let myself think. Had it struck a nerve? Phil Stamper does a great job of making the LGBTQ+ context relatable. I have felt all that Marty has.
Despite the minor annoyance, I picked the book back up, not wanting to have wasted my time by not finishing the book. Then, as I finished…I couldn’t stop smiling. Marty finally gets his pride. As I read chapter thirty-seven, I realised at that moment something I hadn’t earlier…it all leads to this feeling. All the minor annoyances lead to Marty loving himself. And I fell in love.
This love story made me feel things, and experience moments, that I didn’t want to. I wanted to believe everything was perfect but, in real life, it’s not and that frightened me. I’m glad I picked this book back up, it is now my favourite. If I were to change one thing, it would be to get rid of the final chapter. I felt satisfied without it, almost to the point where I didn’t want that additional moment…but that might just be me.
*Spoilers*
Things I loved:
– Sophie. She was such a welcome change from Megan. Marty deserved a best friend like her and the way she cared was beautiful.
– The musical knowledge. Too often you can read books, and people obviously are trying to make things they don’t understand feel real. They fail. This felt very real.
Things I didn’t like:
– I didn’t like how Pierce seemed like a major jerk at the end. I liked Pierce and wished he got to show his vulnerability a bit more. I believed his character but wished I got to see more beneath this confident/cocky persona he held. Also, I would have liked a hug at the end between Pierce and Marty (but that might be too much for some.)
Favourite Line: “Anyway, I thought it was time I finally picked you up from the airport.”
Rating: 4/5
Writings Of A Queer Mind 