He was basically obsessed with this girl and would NOT leave her alone. I kind of was irritated with him in the beginning, but it grew to hatred. After 50% in, I hated Del, the main character. It breaks down topics like toxic masculinity for them in a way that isn't an info dump and seems pretty accessible. I think it's a book that's really important for young men to read. I think this should be on reading lists and in school libraries. I found myself frustrated that races weren't mentioned before I just decided to assume everyone was Black they talked like it and the culture was there, so it definitely worked. I love Jameer! Also the friend group is very diverse and sweet. I definitely chuckled to myself on certain lines. It's almost four in the morning and I stayed up to finish because I just had to know what was going to happen next. 'With true-to-life characters and a straightforward handling of sex, including often ignored aspects of male sexuality, Giles's thoughtful, hilarious read offers a timely viewpoint on religion, toxic masculinity, and teen sexuality.Argh! I have such conflicting feelings about this! 'With true-to-life characters and a straightforward handling of sex, including often ignored aspects of male sexuality, Giles's thoughtful, hilarious read offers a timely viewpoint on religion, toxic masculinity, and teen sexuality.' (Publishers Weekly, 'An Anti-Racist Children's and YA Reading List') But as he plots and plans, he neglects to ask the most important question: What does Kiera want? He can't think about that too much, though, because once he gets the girl, it'll all sort itself out. With other boys circling Kiera like sharks, Del needs to make his move fast. In exchange, Del just has to get answers to the Pledgers' questions.about sex ed. But Del's not about to lose his dream girl, and that's where fellow pledger Jameer comes in. His dad thinks his wires are crossed, and his best friend, Qwan, doesn't believe any girl is worth the long game. Though he quickly realizes he's inadvertently signed up for a Purity Pledge. So when Kiera volunteers for an opportunity at their church, Del's right behind her.

And now, during their junior year, she's finally available. Two-time Edgar Award finalist Lamar Giles spotlights the consequences of societal pressure, confronts toxic masculinity, and explores the complexity of what it means to be a 'real man.'ĭel has had a crush on Kiera Westing since kindergarten. Reynolds)Ĥ starred reviews! * An Indie Next List Pick! * Named one of Bank Street College of Education's Best Children's Books of the Year! Jackson) 'Heartfelt and hilarious on every page!' (Justin A. I couldn't put it down.' (Nic Stone) 'I laughed, I gasped, I church grunted through every chapter.' (Tiffany D.

Not so pure and simple