An instant New York Times bestseller!
"A perfect juxtaposition of ordinary and extraordinary, told with humor, compassion, and unshakeable hope." ?Becky Albertalli, New York Times bestselling author of Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda

The young adult adaptation of the "hopeful" (Kirkus Reviews) and refreshingly candid bestselling memoir by the husband of a former Democratic presidential candidate about growing up gay in his small Midwestern town. Completely rewritten with new stories, including resources for readers, parents, and teachers.

Growing up, Chasten Glezman Buttigieg didn't always fit in. He felt different from his father and brothers, who loved to hunt and go camping, and out of place in the rural, conservative small town where he lived. Back then, blending in was more important than feeling seen.

So, when Chasten realized he was gay, he kept that part of himself hidden away for a long, painful time. With incredible bravery, and the support of his loved ones, Chasten eventually came out?and when he did, he learned that being true to himself was the most rewarding journey of all.

Finding acceptance and self-love can seem like a tremendous challenge, but it's never impossible. With honesty, courage, and warmth, Chasten relays his experience of growing up in America and embracing his identity, while inspiring young people across the country to do the same.

Chasten Buttigieg

The middle grade adaptation of the moving, hopeful, and refreshingly candid memoir by the husband of former Democratic presidential candidate about growing up gay in his small Midwestern town.

Over the past several years, teacher Chasten Glezman Buttigieg has emerged on the national stage, having left his classroom to travel cross-country in support of his husband, former mayor Pete Buttigieg. Through Chasten's joyful, witty social media posts, the public has gained a behind-the-scenes look at his life with Pete—moments that have resonated deeply with a large audience looking for a touch of humanity in their politics.

In this moving, uplifting memoir, Chasten recounts his journey to finding acceptance and self-love. He recalls his upbringing in a rural, conservative small town in Michigan, where he felt different from his hyper-masculine father and brothers. He tells the story of his coming out and how he's healed from the painful responses and isolation. And with unflinching honesty, unflappable courage, and great warmth, Chasten Buttigieg relays his experience of growing up in America and embracing his true self, while inspiring young people across the nation to do the same.