Other Boys

An excellent, important debut.

[...] A beautiful, brave, and honest graphic novel that will appeal to many preteens.

Clearly and honestly, cartoonist Alexander's debut graphic memoir explores familial loss, social isolation, and sexual identity... An often-heartbreaking but powerful--and empowering--story of selfdiscovery, akin to Curato's Flamer and Krosoczka's Hey, Kiddo.

Gr 7 Up--In this graphic memoir, Alexander examines his early adolescent struggles and offers a takedown of gender norms. Damian and his brother, who are white, grew up under the care of adoptive grandparents following their mother's death. Now in seventh grade at a new school, following some intense bullying, Damian has taken a vow of silence to avoid becoming a target. Flashbacks progress through each grade, leading up to the present. Through the years, Damian is told by classmates, family members, and doctors that he should like "boy things" even when he clearly states a preference for princesses, dolls, and domestic play; boys and girls alike ostracize, tease, and attack him for his feminine tastes, quiet nature, and home situation. Pop culture references to music, movies, toys, and video games highlight the different forms of play and escapism available in the late 1990s to mid-2000s. Alexander's story conveys the lasting effects of the trauma that broke up his family as well as the isolation caused by others' superficial judgment. A few friendships and positive encounters stick, as well as a breakthrough with a school-appointed therapist and the personal revelation that Damian is, in fact, gay. Alexander's artwork is widely accessible, depicting both the effortless joy and casual cruelty of children. Bright background colors and large faces broadcast emotional cues, including a fair amount of tears. An afterword addresses the heavier topics of the narrative and lends some context to Damian's perspective. VERDICT Anyone who considered middle school a social minefield, or questioned gender norms will recognize themselves in Damian's painful journey.--Thomas Maluck, Richland Lib., SC

Copyright 2021 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

Newcomer Alexander delves into his past to craft a sweet, touching and at-times scary memoir of grief and loss and coming out (mostly to himself)... An excellent, important debut. —Kirkus, starred review

"It's hard to describe Damian Alexander's particular mix of earnest sweetness and searing honesty without experiencing this book for yourself. Other Boys shoots straight for the heart in every single panel, and I'm both grateful and moved."
—Becky Albertalli, New York Times-bestselling author of Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda

"Damian Alexander traces with poignant accuracy the story of boys who find themselves erased at a certain age. This book should be read by queer kids and parents alike."
—Garrard Conley, New York Times-bestselling author of Boy Erased

"Honest and incredibly brave, this deeply relatable story will resonate with anyone who's looking for their place in the world. Other Boys is a book I so desperately needed as a teen."
—Phil Stamper, bestselling author of The Gravity of Us and As Far As You'll Take Me

"Sincere and healing, Other Boys effortlessly depicts the complex—and often difficult—journey through youth, grief, and the unique joy of self-discovery. Damian Alexander delivers a thoughtful, essential debut."
—Julian Winters, award-winning author of Running With Lions

"With Other Boys, Damian Alexander bares his soul for young readers in a way I can only describe as heroic."
—Adam Sass, author of Surrender Your Sons