YOU OWE ME ONE, UNIVERSE

Nova Scotia middle schoolers Brian and Ezra return with new obstacles to overcome in this sequel to Thanks a Lot, Universe (2021).

Eighth grade brings many changes for the best friends. To start with, there’s the crush that Ezra has on Brian, which neither of them knows how to resolve, leading up to a test kiss that fizzles. Brian is also coping with his father’s imprisonment for cannabis distribution and trying to hold it all together for his family. Luckily, he has the basketball team and a solid group of racially diverse friends, who become vital when he’s diagnosed with depression. Ezra is getting more into his music, preparing for a school talent show that unexpectedly leads to feelings of attraction for Victor, the boy who spent last year bullying Brian. Ezra becomes increasingly conflicted as he and Victor spend more time together, especially since Brian seems to be on the decline, and he doesn’t know how to help him. Throughout the turbulence, the boys lean on their community as they navigate their growing pains. Themes of identity, mental health, and responsibility are tenderly and expertly addressed through the authentic dialogue and interactions among the friends. The keenly observed character development extends beyond the protagonists, allowing readers to immerse themselves in their community. The brisk pace and clear writing make this novel broadly accessible and appealing. Brian is white; Ezra has a Polish Canadian dad and a Black Trinidadian mom.

Smart and heartfelt.