Both Sides Now, Peyton Thomas
Both Sides Now, Peyton Thomas
List: $23.00 | Sale: $16.10
Club: $11.50

Both Sides Now

Author: Peyton Thomas

Narrator: Scott Turner Schofield

Unabridged: 8 hr 38 min

Format: Digital Audiobook Download

Published: 08/24/2021


Synopsis

A witty and warm-hearted novel about a trans teen finding his place in the world perfect for fans of Red, White and Royal Blue
 

There’s only one thing standing between Finch Kelly and a full-blown case of high school senioritis: the National Speech & Debate Tournament. Taking home the gold would not only be the pinnacle of Finch’s debating career, but the perfect way to launch himself into his next chapter: college in Washington, DC, and a history-making career as the first trans congressman. What could possibly go wrong?
     Well, for starters, Finch could develop a teeny tiny crush on his very attractive, very taken, and very gay debate partner, Jonah. Never mind that Finch has never considered whether he’s interested in more than just girls. And that dream of college in DC? Finch hasn’t exactly been accepted anywhere yet, let alone received the full-ride scholarship he’ll need to make this dream a reality.
     Worst of all, though, is this year’s topic for Nationals: transgender rights. If he wants to cinch the gold, and get into college, Finch might have to argue against his own humanity.
     People say there are two sides to every argument. But, as Finch is about to discover, some things—like who you are and who you love—are not up for debate.

Reviews

Goodreads review by Telhurt

As a novel, I can understand and appreciate the fact that "Both Sides Now" is helping pave the way for LGBTQ protagonists and offers something of value to young trans people. That said, it wasn't the trans novel for me which largely felt due to the inauthentic portrayal of race. There are by no mean......more

Goodreads review by diana

This easily readable and bizarrely self-congratulatory little piece of YA drivel is perfect for uncomfortably self-aware John Green fans and smug white liberals who care more about being right than being compassionate or likable. The quippy dialogue flows like a CW writer's wet dream and the colorfu......more

Edit: I've since read reviews by POC people and realized the damaging stereotypes in this book. As a white trans person, I apologize for not reflecting on how other identities were portrayed amd reccommend you read reviews from POC readers ----------------------- Finch was such a realistic trans teen.......more


Quotes

* "Queer issues are given center stage, evoking the lived experiences of many in a sensitive and sympathetic way...These characters feel nuanced and genuine, with their identities and backgrounds as integral parts of the plot and characterization. Emotionally charged and politically relevant, this is a must read." —Kirkus

* “Thomas’ debut is achingly vulnerable… There’s no debate: Both Sides Now is a compelling, heartfelt must-read.” 
Booklist

"Debut author Thomas’s conversational writing style is highly engaging and should draw readers in with a compelling story of self-realization and a bit of youthful romance."  —The Horn Book

“A sharp, witty narrative… full of cerebral teens with big plans and snark to spare.” —SLJ

"This coming-of-age romance poignantly depicts self-discovery and finding your place in the world." —BuzzFeed

"A delightful YA read.”  —The Advocate

“A heartfelt, witty debut novel.” —Buffalo News