Book Review: Will Grayson, Will Grayson by John Green and David Levithan

Will Grayson, Will Grayson by John Green and David Levithan. Dutton Juvenile (2010), Hardcover, 304 pages.

Release date: April 6, 2010

This is the story of two Will Graysons. One is the unassuming, regular kid, always lurking in the shadows of his best friend, the 6 foot 6, fabulously gay Tiny Cooper. The other is a tortured soul, bolstered only by his online flirtation with Isaac. Their paths cross one night in downtown Chicago, leading both of them on unexpected, usually hilarious, but often poignant, relationship journeys, culminating in one high school musical spectacular.

John Green and David Levithan are masters in examining the male psyche with equal shades humor and authenticity. Each of the Will Graysons are not without their flaws, but still manage to be likable and relatable. But the true heart of the book lies with Tiny Cooper, who helps shape both of the title characters. His character will resonate with lots of teens, whether they’re straight, gay, bi, questioning, or anything in between. With alternating points of view, especially when the characters have the same name, the story takes a few chapters to settle into a rhythm, but the narrative doesn’t get bogged down with too many plot points or side characters. There are a few points when reality gets stretched or sped up to further the plot, but I was willing to allow a temporary suspension of disbelief for the sake of the story. This book might not be for everyone — John Green critics will find the usual regular guy meets manic pixie dream girl trope here and the casual acceptance of the gay characters by the other high schoolers is a little too easy — but there’s a lot to like here.

Find in a library or on Amazon.

Reviewed from an ARC received at ALA Midwinter.

February 2nd, 2010  ♥  Books, Reviews  ♥  No Comments »