By whatever means I discovered this book, I’m glad I did this is some fabulous YA.ĭel’s been in love with Kiera since their kindergarten production of The Wizard of Oz, but she’s always been attached to someone else. In fact, Lamar Giles is a founding member of We Need Diverse Books and serves on the Honorary Advisory Board! How cool is that?!?!? (Thank you to the founders and members for this group, for the work you do to keep our shelves stocked with books that represent everyone! It never ceases to amaze me how much better YA now is than when I was young.). *characters grappling with religious and social issues 'With true-to-life characters and a straightforward handling of sex, including often ignored aspects of male sexuality, Giles's thoughtful, hilarious read offers a timely viewpoint on religion, toxic masculinity, and teen sexuality.I don’t quite remember how Not So Pure and Simple by Lamar Giles (Quill Tree Books, 2020) came to be on my reading list (or at least where I found it), but I know WHY, because it ticks so many of my boxes: 'With true-to-life characters and a straightforward handling of sex, including often ignored aspects of male sexuality, Giles's thoughtful, hilarious read offers a timely viewpoint on religion, toxic masculinity, and teen sexuality.' (Publishers Weekly, 'An Anti-Racist Children's and YA Reading List') But as he plots and plans, he neglects to ask the most important question: What does Kiera want? He can't think about that too much, though, because once he gets the girl, it'll all sort itself out. With other boys circling Kiera like sharks, Del needs to make his move fast. In exchange, Del just has to get answers to the Pledgers' questions.about sex ed. But Del's not about to lose his dream girl, and that's where fellow pledger Jameer comes in. His dad thinks his wires are crossed, and his best friend, Qwan, doesn't believe any girl is worth the long game. Though he quickly realizes he's inadvertently signed up for a Purity Pledge. So when Kiera volunteers for an opportunity at their church, Del's right behind her. And now, during their junior year, she's finally available. Two-time Edgar Award finalist Lamar Giles spotlights the consequences of societal pressure, confronts toxic masculinity, and explores the complexity of what it means to be a 'real man.'ĭel has had a crush on Kiera Westing since kindergarten. Reynolds)Ĥ starred reviews! * An Indie Next List Pick! * Named one of Bank Street College of Education's Best Children's Books of the Year!

Jackson) 'Heartfelt and hilarious on every page!' (Justin A. I couldn't put it down.' (Nic Stone) 'I laughed, I gasped, I church grunted through every chapter.' (Tiffany D.

Not so pure and simple