A review by natashaleighton_
And They Were Roommates by Page Powars

emotional funny inspiring lighthearted reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

This was the first Page Powars book I’ve ever read and it was such a fun, heartfelt and beautifully queer read that I absolutely adored! 

The coming-of-age-style premise, endearing MC and cast of vibrant, quirky characters who (embraced our protagonist in the sweetest, most found family of ways) stole my heart almost instantly. 

But it was Powars’ blend of humour, introspective (teenage) angst and character driven storytelling that really made And They Were Roommates such a satisfying read. 

Capturing the awkward teenage emotions of Charlie, and really touching on the struggles he faces as a trans person navigating a rigid, tradition-based setting. Powars gives us an insightful, compelling and joyfully affirming look into how gender identity intersects with the day to day experiences of trans teens. 

And I really liked Charlie. When we first meet him, he’s so afraid of judgement he chooses to isolate himself from the other students than risk getting hurt. But after being drawn into the (secretly rebellious) student group STRIP, we finally see him let down his walls and begin to trust the supportive, and slightly chaotic group who take him under their wing. 

Their banter and witty dialogue was wonderful too, and I loved delving into both the platonic and romantic relationships that Charlie begins to build. But of course, it was his romance with Jasper (who really comes into his own in the last half of the book), and the subtle exploration of their mutual history that really made this a stand out to me, (along with the swoony loaded silences and chemistry-filled stolen glances.)

So, if you enjoy YA romances filled with emotion, gentle (realistic) portrayals of intimacy, or endearingly awkward MCs. Then you definitely have to consider checking this out. 

Also, thanks to Hodder Children’s/ Team Bookmark for the PB copy. 
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