I had a rare, but unfortunate misstep with dates and did not get to finish this in time. However, based on what I did read, I do intend to share it with my creative writing students. Specifically I intend to use THE EDGE OF BEING by James Brandon as an exemplar text for bringing history into a contemporary story. I'm especially thrilled to have this book for my LGBTQIAP+ students who don't always have access to history, such as the Compton's Cafeteria Riot in San Francisco. (I intend to get my own copy of the book because I don't know as much as I'd like about this significant precursor to Stonewall Riots). Thank you for the opportunity to read the e-galley!

Issac has never met his dad and has always felt a part of him has been missing. He’s truly believes he’s not meant for this world, until he finds a box in the attic with his dads name on it and there he sets off on an adventure of discovery and self worth.

This is an own voice, LGTBQ, heartfelt yet sad story. Isaac sets out to explore himself and his family’s history. There’s a lot of pain and self harm we learn in finding oneself, and in this story. It was unique take from a point of view I never thought of before. The story not only explore family issues, but mental illness, sexuality, and abuse from parents.

This book was touching and sensitive and definitely one I recommended to anyone who’

This is the sort of story that just stays with you emotionally long after you close the pages. I'm not sure what I expected but the emotional punch of this was astounding in the best of ways. Brandon does a great job writing to the target audience and I think most YA readers will love this book and connect with the characters. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who likes a 'finding yourself' story with a brilliant LGBTQ+ lineup of representation and who just likes a book that will tug the heart strings. Thanks so much to the publisher and NetGalley for an eARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

I don't think YA books can make me emotional anymore, but then I read a book like this that has me crying! Also major points for the gorgeous cover.

I think anyone who likes Adam Silvera's books will like this one, it reminds me of his stories but written a bit better. I love getting more of LGBTQ+ stories that don't center around coming out. PLUS I love Giovanni's Room so it was a big plus for me to see it included in this.

I love me a good coming-of-age story! This was so well written and beautifully so, and I loved the portrayal of heartbreak, grief, and finding yourself all rolled into one book. I really felt for Isaac and Max and their background stories, and it really made me think about the secrets we keep close to our hearts. Don't skip this one!

- Very manic pixie dream main character
-Did not like the writing style at all. Didnt realize this is the same author as Ziggy Stardust as me, if I had I wouldnt have requested

DNF at 24%