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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.
Featured in the CBC's Hot Off the Press Reading List in August 2025
'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
'Grehan's verse is as lovely and insightful as always, making this a highly recommended volume.' Mombian
'A warm hug for young readers.' The Irish Times
Praise for The Lonely Book
'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
'Grehan's writing style is lovely ... I also deeply enjoyed the magical element of the story and how it emphasized how meaningful and even life-changing the right book can be for a person.' Queer Big Foot
'A Middle-Grade chapter book that tackles the diverse topic of gender identity uniquely and magically.' – YA Books Central
This Lonely Book has traveled with me so many places and I have pulled it out and shared it again and again so maybe it's a little less lonely.' Wandering Bookseller
'[An] emotional powerhouse of a book.' Reading with Red and the Magpie
'What a tender jewel of a book ... The Lonely Book was a balm and a blessing.' – Deirdre Sullivan, author of Savage Her Reply
A beautifully immersive, magical and timely tale of family, gender identity – and the importance of a good book! I binged Meg Grehan's The Lonely Book in one sitting, it's the perfect warm and love-filled escape for bookworms of all ages, especially those who've always believed in the magic of bookstores.' Aislinn O'Loughlin, author of Big Bad Me
'This brave, kind novel in verse explores gender identity in an original way.' Irish Independent
There is much for every reader to enjoy in this celebration of the wonders of bookshops and family love.' The Echo
Praise for The Deepest Breath
'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