You Should See Me in a Crown by Leah Johnson (4/5)

You Should See Me In a Crown is an amazing book. Liz Lighty is a first-chair clarinet, set to go to Indiana’s prestigious Pennington College, just as soon as she gets their orchestra scholarship. When it falls through, though, she has to run for prom queen to get the money. While running she meets Mack, the new girl at school. They both have the same favorite band, Mack plays the drums, is smart, and funny. Liz starts to develop a crush on her. This book deals with homophobia and racism, but deals with it well. It has fluffy romance, but also some angst. Liz finds some unexpected allies, and reunites with an old friend. This book is complex, and will make you want to read it again and again. Leah Johnson shows us that existing systems are not always fair for everyone, and are often not fair. When systems are unfair, you may need to yell, both figuratively, and literally. Often, if others see you as different, they won’t make space for you. You have to make it yourself. That’s why people are often drawn to those similar to them. For example, your friends may have some differing opinions, but will likely have important opinions shared with you. She shows how lying to those that are important to you is a bad idea in the long run, because the truth eventually comes through. It shows that relying on other people is okay, and you don’t have to be strong all the time. Being yourself is important, you feel better about yourself. It shows how friendships can turn sour, and how to repair them. It shows the importance of going above and beyond. That humanity is important, and will prevail above those who bully others into submission. It is a fun, unforgettable novel, and I hope you pick it up sometime!