Boy Like Me by Simon James Green (author) and Scholastic (illustrator) (UK edition)

Our April 2023 Teen Book of the Month

Our Book of the Month for teens is Boy Like Me, a timeless story of forbidden love from leading LGBTQ+ author Simon James Green. It’s 1994 and thanks to Section 28 there can be no mention of gay relationships in UK schools. When a kind librarian leads Jamie to a disguised novel which reflects his own confused feelings towards boys, he sees he’s not the only one who has checked it out. Will Jamie have the courage to meet this mystery boy and if he does what will it take to hold on to each other? In the margins of the book’s pages sparks fly as a teenage romance begins. But in this time and place, sparks like these can only ignite trouble.

This book takes on the tough yet timely topic of book censorship in schools which is still an issue today and more relevant than ever to teen readers. However, Simon James Green’s distinctive brand of humour makes this a very enjoyable read while shedding light on an important chapter of Britain’s LGBTQ+ history. Perfect for fans of BookTok sensations like Alice Oseman and They Both Die at the End, as well as TV drama It’s a Sin. Please be aware this book does contain some sexual content.

Emma – Book Club Editor, Ages 7-11+