BLAINE FOR THE WIN

Sixteen-year-old Chicago mural artist Blaine is devastated when Joey, his senior-class-president boyfriend, dumps him on their one-year anniversary.

To win Joey back and prove he can be the more serious person Joey wants, junior Blaine gives up his painting job, changes his style, and enters the running for senior class president. With just two days left to gather signatures and prepare a speech—just for a chance to get on the ballot—Blaine recruits his best friend, Trish, as his campaign captain. Also helping are Trish’s girlfriend, Camilla, and student council member Danny. After talking to fellow students, Blaine and his team base their campaign around mental health. It seems like a miracle when Blaine manages to win student council approval and become an official candidate. Something strange is afoot, however, as Zach, Joey’s new boyfriend and Blaine’s election opponent, appoints Joey’s close friend Ashtyn as his campaign captain, and Trish suspects there’s something fishy about the election results. Matters grow ever more complicated as Blaine struggles with his growing feelings for Danny, his desire to return to painting, and the version of himself he thinks Joey wants. A slow start builds up to a fast-paced second half, and Blaine’s conflict between remaining true to himself versus becoming a seemingly more mature, serious person forms a relatable backdrop to the plot. Most central characters default to White; Trish is Black, and Danny is Vietnamese American.

A good read with a clear message about authenticity.