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The sequel to the award-winning queer novel in verse, The Deepest Breath – a beautifully written, warm and reassuring LGBTQIA+ story about growing up, identity and the comfort of friendship.
Stevie is about to start secondary school. She often feels anxious, but feels much better having her two best friends, Chloe and Andrew, by her side. Their new school is filled with excitement, like the LGBTQIA+ club, but also challenges, such as math class. The biggest challenge of all though comes when Andrew suddenly becomes distant.
Andrew isn't quite sure who he is yet. This didn't matter much before, especially when he was hanging out with Stevie and Chloe. Now it seems to matter very much indeed, but he doesn't know how to begin talking about it with his friends, who seem to be much clearer about who they are.
'A rare sequel that not only surpasses its original but creates a unique LGBTQIA+ standalone story, masterfully told in an accessible verse novel format.' – School Library Journal (starred review)
'Told in verse from Stevie's and Andrew's points of view, this tender novel explores themes of friendship, struggling with identity, and mental health care. (...) Set in Ireland, this story about self-acceptance and friendship is universally relatable.' – Booklist
'A warm hug for young readers.' – The Irish Times
'Grehan's sensitivity is her strength, as she reminds readers it's OK to not have it all figured out just yet.' – Irish Examiner
Praise for Meg Grehan
'By emphasizing the ways in which books and bookstores serve as safe spaces, the importance of open and honest communication in relationships, and the power of unconditional love, Grehan offers a wholesome and affirming story suffused with warmth and populated by a supportive and compassionate cast.' – Publishers Weekly starred review
'Small in scope and big in heart and feeling, this novel is a tender portrait of gay early adolescence and a strong mother-daughter attachment.' – Publishers Weekly
' An endearing LGBTQ+ novel perfect for middle graders.' – Kirkus Reviews
'Readers will be able to relate to Stevie's struggles with her mental health and the challenges of friendship and growing up.' – School Library Journal
'A Middle-Grade chapter book that tackles the diverse topic of gender identity uniquely and magically.' – YA Books Central
'What a tender jewel of a book ... The Lonely Book was a balm and a blessing.' – Deirdre Sullivan, author of Savage Her Reply
'an accessible, relatable and very reassuring read' – Books for Keeps