The Truth Is by NoNieqa Ramos
Published by Carolrhoda Lab (R) on September 3, 2019
ISBN: 1541528778
Pages: 272
Genres: Realistic Fiction
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
Goodreads

Ramos’ sophomore work focuses on gender, sexuality, and homelessness in teens.  The main character, Verdad, is a Puerto Rican teen who was recently shot in a mass shooting where she also lost her best friends.  She’s a loner who sees and talks to her dead friend. She meets new transgender classmate Danny and begins to question her sexuality.  At the beginning of the story, Verdad uses racist and homophobic terms, and spends a significant part of the book not knowing what pronouns to use with Danny, even as they are getting closer.  Danny introduces Verdad to his group of friends, who are all in the lgbtq family and experiencing homelessness. Despite her newfound awareness, she continues to have judgemental views and says insensitive things and is just plain rude to those she calls friends.  While the breadth and diversity of characters is commendable, there are too many to have any true character development outside of Verdad and Danny. The end comes abruptly with everything tied up into neat bows. Back matter includes Verdad’s reading list to learn about herself and discussion topics.  I can’t recommend this book. The message is too muddled and the character growth feels forced. Best for grades 9+.

Reviewed by Kara Reiman, Maine State Library, Augusta