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Out of Blue Comes Green
Kinkade wants what every other teenage boy wants: a girlfriend and a successful rock band--but that's not as easy as it sounds.
After a killer school talent show performance in full masculine presentation, trans boy Kinkade is quickly knocked back down to earth when his crush rejects him, and the whole school sees him in the dress his mother forced him to wear for a family photo. So, when the new girl Madi assumes he is cis and asks him out, he accepts without correcting her.
After years of being ignored by his old crush and bullied by other boys, Kinkade just wants to convince Madi that he’s a regular guy’s guy. To impress her and finally win the approval of his peers, Kinkade agrees to his best friend Libby’s suggestion that they enter a competition to become the band for prom despite his misgivings.
In between band practice, weightlifting, and dates, Kinkade accidentally becomes an animal shelter volunteer under an assumed name―and it’s there among the unconditional acceptance of dogs that he finally receives the affirmation he’s been longing for.
But it’s going to be harder than he thought to play the show, get the girl, and become the man he’s meant to be.
After a killer school talent show performance in full masculine presentation, trans boy Kinkade is quickly knocked back down to earth when his crush rejects him, and the whole school sees him in the dress his mother forced him to wear for a family photo. So, when the new girl Madi assumes he is cis and asks him out, he accepts without correcting her.
After years of being ignored by his old crush and bullied by other boys, Kinkade just wants to convince Madi that he’s a regular guy’s guy. To impress her and finally win the approval of his peers, Kinkade agrees to his best friend Libby’s suggestion that they enter a competition to become the band for prom despite his misgivings.
In between band practice, weightlifting, and dates, Kinkade accidentally becomes an animal shelter volunteer under an assumed name―and it’s there among the unconditional acceptance of dogs that he finally receives the affirmation he’s been longing for.
But it’s going to be harder than he thought to play the show, get the girl, and become the man he’s meant to be.
352 pages, Hardcover
First published April 23, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
May 5, 2024
I really don't want to be the first negative review for this book but it looks like that's going to be the case.
First and foremost, this book needs a MASSIVE massive content warning. Not only is there a detailed suicide attempt on page, but there is so much transphobia that you're pretty much drowning in it. It is an incredibly difficult read and while I think there is merit to having transphobia on page and depicting realistic expectations and experiences, this was a lot. I really want trans stories to be for trans people but I don't think that I would recommend this to any other trans people. The transphobia is that debilitating.
Let's continue with the fact that the only reason I continued listening to this book was because I thought they would be something good at the end but let me break it to you, there's not. Our main character is so insufferable that for this book to be in any way redeemable for me, he had to have had a come to Jesus moment at the end where he realized he was being a dick and work to change his behavior but that doesn't happen. Throughout the entire book he maintains that he is in the right when much of the time, he is borderline problematic. He has some very rigid views on what gender roles look like and there's a good chunk of misogyny in that. I feel like people are going to come for me for this review but please please listen to what I'm saying.
Kinkade is a trans boy struggling to find his place and his friendships and to get acceptance from those he loves but in the process, he routinely perpetuates a lot of problematic toxic masculinity as well as patriarchal attitudes.
Not only is he borderline problematic, but he is so annoying. And not annoying for any of his transness. Okay people, I'm not saying that the trans rep is bad because it's not. My problem is with his constant need for attention and admiration like he walks on fucking water. My problem is with his deliberate lying and then passing it off as an essential point in his gender journey. My problem is with him romanticizing a girl he barely fucking knows and then assuming she owes him her attention. He does some of the same things to the girls he likes that the bully jocks in this book due to him but in a more nuanced way.
I'm pretty sure there are only four characters in this book that I actually could stand. K's Dad, brother, best friend Libby, and new friend Denny are the only characters that are somewhat bearable. Everyone else, including the supposedly progressive love interest Maddie are so fucking annoying. There's a limit to what I can handle and what I can attest to teenagers being teenagers. I totally believe in flawed characters and having an unlikable narrator or allowing teenagers to be kind of annoying and mess up and make mistakes but there has to be some sort of learning moment. I need a moment where that character either realizes that they can do better or act different or that they had messed up and own up to it. Your unlikeable character should not be unlikable for the entire book in my opinion.
I genuinely want to support trans books by trans authors and apparently I am in the minority here based on other reviews but this book just wasn't it. The writing did not feel very age-appropriate in that our main character who is 16 or 17 does not feel like a 16 or 17-year-old. He feels like a teenager written by a 35-year-old. Just the way that he phrases things and his constant use of the terms of male and female felt so dated. I do not know a single person under 25 who would continuously refer to their gender as male or female. I feel like it's pretty widely known and accepted that male and female are terms to talk about biological sex and medical terms honestly. Maybe I'm wrong and maybe it's just my corner of the internet but that felt super off for me. The character also uses it to describe actions. Like he'll talk about how "males don't do this" or "this action isn't very male" etc. I was not a fan.
It's safe to say that I was not a fan. The only reason I didn't give this book one star is that I do think it has some merit in showing cis people the ramifications of their actions and showing and explaining how kids adopt the viewpoints of the adults in their lives and the traumatic effect that those actions can have. We live in a society where trans rights are constantly under attack and it is important to portray that. I'm just not sure this book does a good enough job at balancing the rampant transphobia with a decent storyline and redeemable characters.
I'm going to include some spoilers below because I feel like I want to give more context especially about the lying part. It has nothing to do with the MCs gender or transness but his actions and behavior.
SPOILERS SPOILERS SPOILERS
It specifically involves assuming someone else's name at an animal shelter and allowing an entire group of staff to believe you are an entirely different person. He goes into this animal shelter and is just looking for either a job or a volunteer position or just to see the dogs But they assume he is their new hire and instead of correcting them, he allows them to call him by this other person's name and takes their job. And then at the end, he literally uses this experience as a realization that he actually really likes that name and chooses it for himself (which like, yay go you!) But the entire experience is totally dismissed because he found his new name. And then the people at the freaking animal shelter give him a job when they figure out he's not actually who he says he was. So not only did he not it any sort of consequences for his actions, he literally gets rewarded.
First and foremost, this book needs a MASSIVE massive content warning. Not only is there a detailed suicide attempt on page, but there is so much transphobia that you're pretty much drowning in it. It is an incredibly difficult read and while I think there is merit to having transphobia on page and depicting realistic expectations and experiences, this was a lot. I really want trans stories to be for trans people but I don't think that I would recommend this to any other trans people. The transphobia is that debilitating.
Let's continue with the fact that the only reason I continued listening to this book was because I thought they would be something good at the end but let me break it to you, there's not. Our main character is so insufferable that for this book to be in any way redeemable for me, he had to have had a come to Jesus moment at the end where he realized he was being a dick and work to change his behavior but that doesn't happen. Throughout the entire book he maintains that he is in the right when much of the time, he is borderline problematic. He has some very rigid views on what gender roles look like and there's a good chunk of misogyny in that. I feel like people are going to come for me for this review but please please listen to what I'm saying.
Kinkade is a trans boy struggling to find his place and his friendships and to get acceptance from those he loves but in the process, he routinely perpetuates a lot of problematic toxic masculinity as well as patriarchal attitudes.
Not only is he borderline problematic, but he is so annoying. And not annoying for any of his transness. Okay people, I'm not saying that the trans rep is bad because it's not. My problem is with his constant need for attention and admiration like he walks on fucking water. My problem is with his deliberate lying and then passing it off as an essential point in his gender journey. My problem is with him romanticizing a girl he barely fucking knows and then assuming she owes him her attention. He does some of the same things to the girls he likes that the bully jocks in this book due to him but in a more nuanced way.
I'm pretty sure there are only four characters in this book that I actually could stand. K's Dad, brother, best friend Libby, and new friend Denny are the only characters that are somewhat bearable. Everyone else, including the supposedly progressive love interest Maddie are so fucking annoying. There's a limit to what I can handle and what I can attest to teenagers being teenagers. I totally believe in flawed characters and having an unlikable narrator or allowing teenagers to be kind of annoying and mess up and make mistakes but there has to be some sort of learning moment. I need a moment where that character either realizes that they can do better or act different or that they had messed up and own up to it. Your unlikeable character should not be unlikable for the entire book in my opinion.
I genuinely want to support trans books by trans authors and apparently I am in the minority here based on other reviews but this book just wasn't it. The writing did not feel very age-appropriate in that our main character who is 16 or 17 does not feel like a 16 or 17-year-old. He feels like a teenager written by a 35-year-old. Just the way that he phrases things and his constant use of the terms of male and female felt so dated. I do not know a single person under 25 who would continuously refer to their gender as male or female. I feel like it's pretty widely known and accepted that male and female are terms to talk about biological sex and medical terms honestly. Maybe I'm wrong and maybe it's just my corner of the internet but that felt super off for me. The character also uses it to describe actions. Like he'll talk about how "males don't do this" or "this action isn't very male" etc. I was not a fan.
It's safe to say that I was not a fan. The only reason I didn't give this book one star is that I do think it has some merit in showing cis people the ramifications of their actions and showing and explaining how kids adopt the viewpoints of the adults in their lives and the traumatic effect that those actions can have. We live in a society where trans rights are constantly under attack and it is important to portray that. I'm just not sure this book does a good enough job at balancing the rampant transphobia with a decent storyline and redeemable characters.
I'm going to include some spoilers below because I feel like I want to give more context especially about the lying part. It has nothing to do with the MCs gender or transness but his actions and behavior.
SPOILERS SPOILERS SPOILERS
It specifically involves assuming someone else's name at an animal shelter and allowing an entire group of staff to believe you are an entirely different person. He goes into this animal shelter and is just looking for either a job or a volunteer position or just to see the dogs But they assume he is their new hire and instead of correcting them, he allows them to call him by this other person's name and takes their job. And then at the end, he literally uses this experience as a realization that he actually really likes that name and chooses it for himself (which like, yay go you!) But the entire experience is totally dismissed because he found his new name. And then the people at the freaking animal shelter give him a job when they figure out he's not actually who he says he was. So not only did he not it any sort of consequences for his actions, he literally gets rewarded.
October 22, 2023
I was honored to receive an ARC of this book from the author.
What a lovely story. My biggest take away is hope. This book is filled with it! It's also filled with very human characters struggling, and often succeeding, through life. That sounds cliche but it's refreshing to read about real teenagers figuring out who they want to be -- who they are meant to be -- as they near adulthood. It's also refreshing to read about mental health tools like therapists, music, pets, exercise, family, love, and friendship as pieces of the self-discovery puzzle. I am glad this book now exists in the world: for the light and understanding it sheds, and for the acceptance and hope it gives.
What a lovely story. My biggest take away is hope. This book is filled with it! It's also filled with very human characters struggling, and often succeeding, through life. That sounds cliche but it's refreshing to read about real teenagers figuring out who they want to be -- who they are meant to be -- as they near adulthood. It's also refreshing to read about mental health tools like therapists, music, pets, exercise, family, love, and friendship as pieces of the self-discovery puzzle. I am glad this book now exists in the world: for the light and understanding it sheds, and for the acceptance and hope it gives.
March 26, 2024
Read during the #TransRightsReadathon!
Rep: Trans main character, Black side character
Content warnings: Lots and lots of transphobic remarks and actions, depictions of suicide attempts, homophobic slurs, deadnaming, misgendering, dysphoria, sexual harassment, forced outing, emotionally/verbally abusive parent, cyberbullying, in-person bullying including from a teacher, graphic menstruation, injured and ill animals, deceased pet (past), deceased parent (past), microaggressions, toxic masculinity, misogyny, bankruptcy
*Note for trans readers who stumble upon this review: Seriously -- mind the content warnings. I'm a trans adult who regularly reads and watches very dark stories, and this was almost too much even for me. As excellent as this book is, no book is so good that you should disregard your safety.*
I don't remember the last time it was so hard for me to put down a book -- it only took me a day and a half to read this because I couldn't stop. M.E. Corey writes with so much talent and passion that it shocked me to learn that this is his debut! He has a gripping writing style, and I truly admire how wonderful he is at characterization. Like, yes, Kinkade and Madi and Libby were annoying at times; they're teenagers! I acted just like them when I was a hipster high school student, and I would much rather read about lovably complex, realistic characters than one-dimensional ones who don't feel true to life. All of them deserve the biggest hugs.
This is more for publishing-world people who happen to read this and does not reflect on the excellent quality of the writing: I do think the book's official description should be modified a bit. Based on the description, I requested this ARC thinking it would be more of a rom-com with music and animals tossed in, with only minor discussions of transphobia. But it was much, much heavier than that. Again, that is not a criticism of the book itself -- in fact, I think it's an extremely important read, particularly for those who don't understand the effect that transphobic actions, legislation, and microaggressions have on young people. It's also an absolutely wonderful case study on just how much kids absorb the bigotry of the adults around them. I just would've preferred knowing what I was getting into when I started this book. A page with content warnings could also be an option, or even a list of resources readers could utilize, like The Trevor Project. While I know that people have differing opinions on the value of content warnings in books, I believe it's crucial to include when it's a book that details a suicide attempt and severe transphobic bullying (particularly since more than half of trans young people have considered suicide themselves).
Ultimately, I love these characters, I love this writing style, and I very much hope that Corey continues writing!
**HUGE thank you to Page Street YA for granting me an eARC through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review!**
Rep: Trans main character, Black side character
Content warnings: Lots and lots of transphobic remarks and actions, depictions of suicide attempts, homophobic slurs, deadnaming, misgendering, dysphoria, sexual harassment, forced outing, emotionally/verbally abusive parent, cyberbullying, in-person bullying including from a teacher, graphic menstruation, injured and ill animals, deceased pet (past), deceased parent (past), microaggressions, toxic masculinity, misogyny, bankruptcy
*Note for trans readers who stumble upon this review: Seriously -- mind the content warnings. I'm a trans adult who regularly reads and watches very dark stories, and this was almost too much even for me. As excellent as this book is, no book is so good that you should disregard your safety.*
I don't remember the last time it was so hard for me to put down a book -- it only took me a day and a half to read this because I couldn't stop. M.E. Corey writes with so much talent and passion that it shocked me to learn that this is his debut! He has a gripping writing style, and I truly admire how wonderful he is at characterization. Like, yes, Kinkade and Madi and Libby were annoying at times; they're teenagers! I acted just like them when I was a hipster high school student, and I would much rather read about lovably complex, realistic characters than one-dimensional ones who don't feel true to life. All of them deserve the biggest hugs.
This is more for publishing-world people who happen to read this and does not reflect on the excellent quality of the writing: I do think the book's official description should be modified a bit. Based on the description, I requested this ARC thinking it would be more of a rom-com with music and animals tossed in, with only minor discussions of transphobia. But it was much, much heavier than that. Again, that is not a criticism of the book itself -- in fact, I think it's an extremely important read, particularly for those who don't understand the effect that transphobic actions, legislation, and microaggressions have on young people. It's also an absolutely wonderful case study on just how much kids absorb the bigotry of the adults around them. I just would've preferred knowing what I was getting into when I started this book. A page with content warnings could also be an option, or even a list of resources readers could utilize, like The Trevor Project. While I know that people have differing opinions on the value of content warnings in books, I believe it's crucial to include when it's a book that details a suicide attempt and severe transphobic bullying (particularly since more than half of trans young people have considered suicide themselves).
Ultimately, I love these characters, I love this writing style, and I very much hope that Corey continues writing!
**HUGE thank you to Page Street YA for granting me an eARC through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review!**
April 30, 2024
Thank you Storygram Tours, M.E. Corey, Page Street YA for sending me an arc for tour. And thank you NetGalley for sending me an eARC 🥰🫶
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I really enjoyed this debut book as I think it tells a different trans experience from what I’ve read before. Our MC, Kinkade is early in his social transition and hasn’t yet picked his chosen name. (Kinkade is his last name and I won’t say his new chosen name as it’s kind of a spoiler ☺️) I really like the narrative and I think it is relatable for a high school student. Kinkade is also in a band with his best friend and I wish I could listen to their songs! 🎶 There’s just something about this book that I couldn’t put it down. I look forward to anything Matthew writes in the future. ☺️🫶
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⚠️Please check the trigger warnings before reading! ☺️🫶
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Out of Blue Comes Green by M.E. Corey is out now!
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I really enjoyed this debut book as I think it tells a different trans experience from what I’ve read before. Our MC, Kinkade is early in his social transition and hasn’t yet picked his chosen name. (Kinkade is his last name and I won’t say his new chosen name as it’s kind of a spoiler ☺️) I really like the narrative and I think it is relatable for a high school student. Kinkade is also in a band with his best friend and I wish I could listen to their songs! 🎶 There’s just something about this book that I couldn’t put it down. I look forward to anything Matthew writes in the future. ☺️🫶
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⚠️Please check the trigger warnings before reading! ☺️🫶
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Out of Blue Comes Green by M.E. Corey is out now!
May 29, 2024
The main character syndrome that this boy has is off the charts.
May 5, 2024
Out of Blue Comes Green by M.E. Corey isn't just any young adult book; it's an exhilarating journey through the tumultuous corridors of adolescence, where every page crackles with emotion and authenticity. From the very first chapter, Corey invites readers into the vivid world of Kay, a protagonist whose every heartbeat resonates with the highs and lows of teenage existence.
The art classroom scenes transport readers back to their own high school days. With each stroke of charcoal and every trace of pastel, Corey blends teenage angst and creativity in a way that is both haunting and beautifully raw. And let's not forget the weight room, where the clanging of weights and the sweat-drenched atmosphere serve as a backdrop to Kay's inner struggles, reminding us of the physical and emotional challenges of adolescence.
But it's in the quiet moments at the animal shelter that the true heart of the story shines through. As Kay builds a tender relationship with Dakota, his walls begin to crumble, revealing a vulnerability he's unwilling to show to most people. Corey's portrayal of this bond is nothing short of magical, reminding us of the transformative power of animals to build compassion and connection.
And when Kay takes the stage with his band Blue, the energy is electric. Corey captures the duality of the moment perfectly, allowing readers to feel the rush of adrenaline as Kay loses himself in the music while also grappling with the intrusive thoughts that plague his mind. It's a testament to Corey's skill as a writer that these scenes feel so dynamic and immersive, pulling readers deeper into Kay's world with each chord strummed and each lyric sung.
But perhaps the most captivating aspect of "Out of Blue Comes Green" is Kay's budding romance with Madi. Their relationship is a rollercoaster of emotions, filled with moments that are both moving and unexpected. Corey handles their love story with grace and sensitivity, weaving together a narrative that is as heartwarming as it is surprising.
In short, Out of Blue Comes Green is a masterpiece of young adult fiction, a book that will stay with readers long after they've turned the final page. M.E. Corey has crafted a story that is as poignant as it is powerful, reminding us of the beauty and complexity of the teenage experience.
*****Mind the content warning. Transphobia and self harm*****
The art classroom scenes transport readers back to their own high school days. With each stroke of charcoal and every trace of pastel, Corey blends teenage angst and creativity in a way that is both haunting and beautifully raw. And let's not forget the weight room, where the clanging of weights and the sweat-drenched atmosphere serve as a backdrop to Kay's inner struggles, reminding us of the physical and emotional challenges of adolescence.
But it's in the quiet moments at the animal shelter that the true heart of the story shines through. As Kay builds a tender relationship with Dakota, his walls begin to crumble, revealing a vulnerability he's unwilling to show to most people. Corey's portrayal of this bond is nothing short of magical, reminding us of the transformative power of animals to build compassion and connection.
And when Kay takes the stage with his band Blue, the energy is electric. Corey captures the duality of the moment perfectly, allowing readers to feel the rush of adrenaline as Kay loses himself in the music while also grappling with the intrusive thoughts that plague his mind. It's a testament to Corey's skill as a writer that these scenes feel so dynamic and immersive, pulling readers deeper into Kay's world with each chord strummed and each lyric sung.
But perhaps the most captivating aspect of "Out of Blue Comes Green" is Kay's budding romance with Madi. Their relationship is a rollercoaster of emotions, filled with moments that are both moving and unexpected. Corey handles their love story with grace and sensitivity, weaving together a narrative that is as heartwarming as it is surprising.
In short, Out of Blue Comes Green is a masterpiece of young adult fiction, a book that will stay with readers long after they've turned the final page. M.E. Corey has crafted a story that is as poignant as it is powerful, reminding us of the beauty and complexity of the teenage experience.
*****Mind the content warning. Transphobia and self harm*****
April 27, 2024
Out of Blue Comes Green follows our main character Kay who has recently come out as trans. He performs with his band Blue at a school talent show, with the hopes of showing who he really is. The book follows the rest of the school year as Kay battles with bullies, a parent who is unsupportive, and trying to find their own way with girls and life.
I really liked this one. It’s a little angsty, a little angry, and packs in a lot of heart. The friendships are strong in this one and the backdrop of school adds to the punches that our main character deals with. I was filled with rage more than one time - freaking bullies!! - for Kay (who later chooses the name Nate, which is perfect!), and I was also heartwarmed by his dad’s reaction.
A couple of quotes I liked:
“To love someone who doesn’t understand who you truly are is heartbreaking.”
“It’s all fine; it all ties together. My English teacher this year said that fiction makes sense out of life. In fiction things have to fall in line, events cause other events.”
“That’s what I want. Music and happiness.“
“I text him a heart emoji. Because boys can love their brothers.“
“When my lips meet hers, it’s simply the most wonderful thing. Wonderful, wonderful.“
Happy reading! 💙
I really liked this one. It’s a little angsty, a little angry, and packs in a lot of heart. The friendships are strong in this one and the backdrop of school adds to the punches that our main character deals with. I was filled with rage more than one time - freaking bullies!! - for Kay (who later chooses the name Nate, which is perfect!), and I was also heartwarmed by his dad’s reaction.
A couple of quotes I liked:
“To love someone who doesn’t understand who you truly are is heartbreaking.”
“It’s all fine; it all ties together. My English teacher this year said that fiction makes sense out of life. In fiction things have to fall in line, events cause other events.”
“That’s what I want. Music and happiness.“
“I text him a heart emoji. Because boys can love their brothers.“
“When my lips meet hers, it’s simply the most wonderful thing. Wonderful, wonderful.“
Happy reading! 💙
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 28, 2024
A beautiful, heartfelt story of a trans teen navigating what it means to be himself. Hard not to like Kinkade -- especially given how much he loves dogs -- as well as the cast of supporting characters. If I had one bone to pick, it would be this: I knew that at some point K was going to let down his best friend Libby (a trope that I never enjoy but that seems to be a staple of every teenage novel), but when it happened it felt really poorly motivated. Otherwise I have no real complaints. I like how K assumes everyone's against him at first, but slowly realizes that he actually has lots of allies in unexpected places even as he also continues to deal with harassment and discrimination.
September 29, 2024
Although the main character drove me absolutely crazy, I couldn't stop reading! It was such an emotional rollercoaster... Lots of laughter, tears, and yelling "no! Why!? Seriously?!" for me. This story needed to be out in the world. I grew so attached and emotionally involved with each of the characters along the way. Special shout out to sweet Madi; I loved her! Kinkade's dad also has a special place in my heart. :) Kinkade for sure needs some therapy and an ego check soon, and the transphobia was really disheartening... But I'm glad it ended how it did and I really couldn't put it down the whole time I was reading, so obviously something was right!
March 21, 2025
First book for the Trans Rights Readathon 2025, started this last week bc I go on vacation next week & I was worried I wouldn’t get all my reading in.
Holy shit. Uncomfortable in a great way. No one should have to experience a world where they cannot comfortably live their truth.
I had never seen this book anywhere, just saw it at a used bookstore & rescued it for my queer library I am growing at my home.
This story has a heavy theme of, navigating a world where no one is in your corner.
Be mindful of the content warnings!!!!!
The first 70 pages (8chapters) are tearjerkers I just want all queer people to live in a world where they know no pain & can be who they want to be.
“What kind of god would let me feel like this? Just let me wake up a boy.”
“She is likely checking to be sure I’m still home that I haven’t wandered off to do evil transgender hijinks.”
Love the music & theatre themes in this book. Made my drama kid heart happy! & DAMN. This narrator could sing!!!
This book that’ll remind you how important a good community & support system is.
Holy shit. Uncomfortable in a great way. No one should have to experience a world where they cannot comfortably live their truth.
I had never seen this book anywhere, just saw it at a used bookstore & rescued it for my queer library I am growing at my home.
This story has a heavy theme of, navigating a world where no one is in your corner.
Be mindful of the content warnings!!!!!
The first 70 pages (8chapters) are tearjerkers I just want all queer people to live in a world where they know no pain & can be who they want to be.
“What kind of god would let me feel like this? Just let me wake up a boy.”
“She is likely checking to be sure I’m still home that I haven’t wandered off to do evil transgender hijinks.”
Love the music & theatre themes in this book. Made my drama kid heart happy! & DAMN. This narrator could sing!!!
This book that’ll remind you how important a good community & support system is.
June 4, 2024
this book is fire. i personally know the author and read it while it was still a pdf. such a cute read that had me turning those pages.. or in my case scrolling down the document. read this or else on god.
June 23, 2024
Sweet story! The author posts content warnings, please take care of yourself.
June 3, 2024
I really enjoyed this book. The writing is very well done and the characters feel genuinely relatable, though Kay comes across as maybe a little too angsty at times but given his young age and the hardships he faces that can be a little more forgivable.
April 16, 2024
Thank you NetGalley and Page Street Publishing for the ARC of Out of Blue Comes Green by M. E. Corey.
Out of Blue Comes Green by M. E. Corey offers a poignant exploration of the transgender experience through the lens of its protagonist, Kincaid/Nate. While Kincaid/Nate is a fairly flawed character he is a teenager and therefore his immature like many of his peers. He tends to be a little more self involved mainly due to the many issues he is experiences.
The dynamics within Kincaid/Nate's relationships, especially with his family members and friends, provide additional layers to the narrative. The contrast between supportive and unsupportive individuals in his life offers a realistic depiction of the varying responses transgender individuals may encounter. Specifically, the contrast between his fathers acceptance and his mother's struggles to accept who he truly is highlights how hard it can be for transgender youth to find acceptance even at home.
The introduction of Madi as a character who respects Kincaid/Nate's gender identity highlights the importance of acceptance and understanding within interpersonal relationships. While his longtime best friend Libby has always supported him it is clear that she does not truly understand his struggles.
The subplot involving Kincaid/Nate's involvement with an animal shelter adds an interesting dimension to the narrative, symbolizing his journey of self-discovery and finding a sense of purpose beyond societal expectations.
Out of Blue Comes Green is a compelling exploration of identity, acceptance, and resilience, offering readers valuable insights into the transgender experience. This book hits on a lot of tough topics but they are things that trans youth are experiencing and M. E. Corey does not shy away from that. This is a must read for anyone but I do caution as there are a lot of trigger/content warnings for this book. Content/Trigger Warnings: Bullying, Cyberbullying, Transphobia, Homophobia, Dead Naming, Misgendering, Sexual Harassment, Dysphoria, Suicidal Ideation, Suicide Attempt.
Out of Blue Comes Green by M. E. Corey offers a poignant exploration of the transgender experience through the lens of its protagonist, Kincaid/Nate. While Kincaid/Nate is a fairly flawed character he is a teenager and therefore his immature like many of his peers. He tends to be a little more self involved mainly due to the many issues he is experiences.
The dynamics within Kincaid/Nate's relationships, especially with his family members and friends, provide additional layers to the narrative. The contrast between supportive and unsupportive individuals in his life offers a realistic depiction of the varying responses transgender individuals may encounter. Specifically, the contrast between his fathers acceptance and his mother's struggles to accept who he truly is highlights how hard it can be for transgender youth to find acceptance even at home.
The introduction of Madi as a character who respects Kincaid/Nate's gender identity highlights the importance of acceptance and understanding within interpersonal relationships. While his longtime best friend Libby has always supported him it is clear that she does not truly understand his struggles.
The subplot involving Kincaid/Nate's involvement with an animal shelter adds an interesting dimension to the narrative, symbolizing his journey of self-discovery and finding a sense of purpose beyond societal expectations.
Out of Blue Comes Green is a compelling exploration of identity, acceptance, and resilience, offering readers valuable insights into the transgender experience. This book hits on a lot of tough topics but they are things that trans youth are experiencing and M. E. Corey does not shy away from that. This is a must read for anyone but I do caution as there are a lot of trigger/content warnings for this book. Content/Trigger Warnings: Bullying, Cyberbullying, Transphobia, Homophobia, Dead Naming, Misgendering, Sexual Harassment, Dysphoria, Suicidal Ideation, Suicide Attempt.
September 14, 2024
Thank you PageStreet for an ARC!
This book is not a lighthearted book. I went into this book, by the description, thinking that it would be and it was not. This book should have had a trigger warning at the beginning of the book. I am going to put some trigger warnings here, but these may not be all of them: transphobia (on page), suicide attempt (on page), pet death (mentioned in passing), Bullying (on page), Deadnaming (on page)
This book is a coming of age novel about a teen, Kinkade, who is trying to make the world see him the way he does, as a boy. After a talent show performance, he is rejected by his crush. However, he wants to convince his crush to date him. A new student comes to town, and accepts him for who he is, and doesn't question that he's a guy. He also has promised is best friend that he would audition for the prom with his band. He also gets roped into working for an animal shelter.
Needless to say, there is a lot going on in this book. The plot felt quite overwhelming, as it felt like the author was trying to tackle a lot. I think that the main character doesn't really have a development arc. He doesn't really change and everything still goes his way by the end. Are the discussions of transphobia and trans joy in this book important? Yes. However, I think that it could have been done more thoughtfully.
This book is not a lighthearted book. I went into this book, by the description, thinking that it would be and it was not. This book should have had a trigger warning at the beginning of the book. I am going to put some trigger warnings here, but these may not be all of them: transphobia (on page), suicide attempt (on page), pet death (mentioned in passing), Bullying (on page), Deadnaming (on page)
This book is a coming of age novel about a teen, Kinkade, who is trying to make the world see him the way he does, as a boy. After a talent show performance, he is rejected by his crush. However, he wants to convince his crush to date him. A new student comes to town, and accepts him for who he is, and doesn't question that he's a guy. He also has promised is best friend that he would audition for the prom with his band. He also gets roped into working for an animal shelter.
Needless to say, there is a lot going on in this book. The plot felt quite overwhelming, as it felt like the author was trying to tackle a lot. I think that the main character doesn't really have a development arc. He doesn't really change and everything still goes his way by the end. Are the discussions of transphobia and trans joy in this book important? Yes. However, I think that it could have been done more thoughtfully.
April 17, 2024
A heartbreaking but life-affirming YA novel about a trans boy fighting for his families acceptance of his transition and trying to find a place at school amidst bullying and transphobia. They find some solace in music and playing in their band and a new friendship/crush that develops with another girl at school but this book also explores the pain and hurt involved in feeling like you don't belong in your body and there are moments of suicidal ideation, including a suicide attempt. An important debut that should be read with care, empathy and grace and is highly recommended for fans of authors like Tobly McSmith and Mason Deaver.
Read
April 9, 2024DNF'd a few chapters in, not far enough to give it a fair rating. I just couldn't get into the flow of the writing.
May 16, 2024
The publishing of this book is incredibly irresponsible to all involved in the process that helped it along. While there is a content warning about an on-page suicide attempt, the synopsis does not come even remotely close to detailing all the pain and trauma in this book. Furthermore, the aforementioned suicide attempt is incredibly detailed, giving multiple suggestions as to how this character will do it. It barely comes up again either. It happens pages 64-66, and then by my account is mentioned a total of 3 times in the rest of the 300+ page book. Given both the trauma in this book and the fact that trans kids are known for being an at-risk group, it should not have been nearly the level of detail that it was. Mental health is important to talk about, but not like this.
Another irresponsible part of this book is his binding method. It's said he uses an ace-bandage-like binding technique. Anyone who has needed to bind is aware that ace bandages are incredibly damaging, and not to be used no matter how desperate you are, because you can break a rib and damage your lungs. He does mention the welts he gets from this makeshift binder, but he somehow still manages to exercise in it without any complications beyond the skin damage. There are safer ways of making homemade binders, and the author should have explored that instead of promoting this well-known, incredibly dangerous one.
It also needs to be said that his therapist's comments on his mother and trying to go around her are very inappropriate from a mental health professional. This kid is a minor, reliant on his parents in every regard, with no idea at the time if his dad would accept him or not. Telling this kid to go around his mother could very well run the risk of getting him hurt or making him lose his home, and while I firmly believe that trans kids have the right to transition, it is harmful to the kids who may read this book to tell them they should disobey their parents when it could very well put their life at risk.
The main character also sounds incredibly truscumy for the majority of the book, talking about how is body can't be a boy's body or how the fact he has a period means he can never be a boy. He uses the terms "male" and "female" interchangeably with gender terms, furthering the feeling that he thinks being a man means completely changing his body when in reality this is not the case. He refers to his sex as his "birth gender," which may not be truscum rhetoric, but is also inaccurate, as there is no such thing as birth gender. Assigned gender at birth sure, but birth gender no. This is something I've only heard transphobes say, and he should know better.
He also displays multiple traits of toxic masculinity, from saying it's not manly to cry, it's not manly to answer questions, he even says the way he attempted suicide isn't manly. I know that there are a lot of young trans kids that might fall into this thinking, but given that he also acknowledges that the only guy in his life who has that thinking is a bully, it's incredibly odd that he thinks it.
He also needs to understand that people don't owe him anything. Christine doesn't owe him love for flirting with him once, Madi doesn't owe him telling him she knows he's trans, and Libby doesn't owe him constant forgiveness. What is owed his his apology to just about everyone because he takes every single person who gives him an ounce of kindness for granted, like he shouldn't say thank you when someone does him a favor just because he asked. Twice it's even mentioned how glad he is that the guy he impersonates to work (not volunteer, like the synopsis says) at the animal shelter is in the hospital and can't out him as an imposter. The person he impersonates is on life support, and he knows this, and even thinks to himself possibly died already, and his only thought is to wonder how to break it to the animal shelter, not whether this person is okay. He eventually feels guilt, but it's incredibly messed up that he was ever glad about it.
This is not a good book, with an immature main character and irresponsible author. Frankly I'm surprised it has so many good reviews, and that it got published at all.
Another irresponsible part of this book is his binding method. It's said he uses an ace-bandage-like binding technique. Anyone who has needed to bind is aware that ace bandages are incredibly damaging, and not to be used no matter how desperate you are, because you can break a rib and damage your lungs. He does mention the welts he gets from this makeshift binder, but he somehow still manages to exercise in it without any complications beyond the skin damage. There are safer ways of making homemade binders, and the author should have explored that instead of promoting this well-known, incredibly dangerous one.
It also needs to be said that his therapist's comments on his mother and trying to go around her are very inappropriate from a mental health professional. This kid is a minor, reliant on his parents in every regard, with no idea at the time if his dad would accept him or not. Telling this kid to go around his mother could very well run the risk of getting him hurt or making him lose his home, and while I firmly believe that trans kids have the right to transition, it is harmful to the kids who may read this book to tell them they should disobey their parents when it could very well put their life at risk.
The main character also sounds incredibly truscumy for the majority of the book, talking about how is body can't be a boy's body or how the fact he has a period means he can never be a boy. He uses the terms "male" and "female" interchangeably with gender terms, furthering the feeling that he thinks being a man means completely changing his body when in reality this is not the case. He refers to his sex as his "birth gender," which may not be truscum rhetoric, but is also inaccurate, as there is no such thing as birth gender. Assigned gender at birth sure, but birth gender no. This is something I've only heard transphobes say, and he should know better.
He also displays multiple traits of toxic masculinity, from saying it's not manly to cry, it's not manly to answer questions, he even says the way he attempted suicide isn't manly. I know that there are a lot of young trans kids that might fall into this thinking, but given that he also acknowledges that the only guy in his life who has that thinking is a bully, it's incredibly odd that he thinks it.
He also needs to understand that people don't owe him anything. Christine doesn't owe him love for flirting with him once, Madi doesn't owe him telling him she knows he's trans, and Libby doesn't owe him constant forgiveness. What is owed his his apology to just about everyone because he takes every single person who gives him an ounce of kindness for granted, like he shouldn't say thank you when someone does him a favor just because he asked. Twice it's even mentioned how glad he is that the guy he impersonates to work (not volunteer, like the synopsis says) at the animal shelter is in the hospital and can't out him as an imposter. The person he impersonates is on life support, and he knows this, and even thinks to himself possibly died already, and his only thought is to wonder how to break it to the animal shelter, not whether this person is okay. He eventually feels guilt, but it's incredibly messed up that he was ever glad about it.
This is not a good book, with an immature main character and irresponsible author. Frankly I'm surprised it has so many good reviews, and that it got published at all.
November 10, 2025
I’ve put off writing a review on Goodreads for many years. Writing the incredibly thoughtful and articulate reviews I see in abundance sounds like more time than I am prepared to devote. But it’s been gnawing at me when I want to put some thoughts down for my future self or work through some feelings via words.
I’m choosing to start here, since this book was written by my well-loved high school English teacher and, of course, I want his work to reach many readers.
It hits different when the author (or artist) whose work you’re consuming isn’t far removed from you. I was simultaneously constantly awed and shrewdly critical as I was reading this. Maybe because the author is just this person I know, who is real, that did this thing, and then, doesn’t that mean that anyone can do this thing? But wow, it’s so hard to do this thing! How did they do that?
There was a lot to love about this book. The intelligence, priorities, and emotions of the teens all felt spot on. One of the main themes in other reviews was the self-absorbed and annoying nature of the MC. However, this read to me more as a still-developing emotional intelligence and classic adolescent selfishness. And yeah, a tad annoying, but also I’m cutting him some slack because there are multiple layers of trauma in his life.
The daily bullying and transphobia the MC faces is built up in such a way that I felt like I was on the rollercoaster with the MC, trying to avoid the bully, rooting for the mom to say the right thing, etc. This was the biggest strength of the novel and makes it a great read for cis folks. It’s a lot. Each example is more than a micro aggression, but it accumulates similarly, such that suddenly the weight of all the bigotry and struggle is overwhelming. The MC is incredibly tough. He endures daily comments and interactions that would cripple me.
The bully, JT, was a bit confusing. At one point he seems to have a redemption arc, albeit a toxic one, only for us to see that it’s not a redemption arc at all and then he becomes more hateful than ever. I think the motives of his character are what threw me. It didn’t seem like a fully coherent origin story for the bullying. Or, I wanted it fleshed out more.
The climax involves an ultimatum by the principle which felt unlikely. The strength of the book is the way the kids are written. The novel excels in making you feel all the feels and depicting the trauma of navigating being trans in high school, but the nod to the politics feels so brief that I don’t know that it adds. I understand it would likely be a disservice to not acknowledge the partisan politics behind the themes of the novel. The aforementioned ultimatum is trying to speak to this politicization of trans rights and it feels tacked on. I will say, Mr. Corey has all the direct experience with school politicking and I have none. That being said in the 2020s I’m not sure that scene/ultimatum would have played out as it did.
There. Did it. Naturally it took as long as I thought it would. So maybe I’ll resort to bullet thoughts if I ever try again.
I’m choosing to start here, since this book was written by my well-loved high school English teacher and, of course, I want his work to reach many readers.
It hits different when the author (or artist) whose work you’re consuming isn’t far removed from you. I was simultaneously constantly awed and shrewdly critical as I was reading this. Maybe because the author is just this person I know, who is real, that did this thing, and then, doesn’t that mean that anyone can do this thing? But wow, it’s so hard to do this thing! How did they do that?
There was a lot to love about this book. The intelligence, priorities, and emotions of the teens all felt spot on. One of the main themes in other reviews was the self-absorbed and annoying nature of the MC. However, this read to me more as a still-developing emotional intelligence and classic adolescent selfishness. And yeah, a tad annoying, but also I’m cutting him some slack because there are multiple layers of trauma in his life.
The daily bullying and transphobia the MC faces is built up in such a way that I felt like I was on the rollercoaster with the MC, trying to avoid the bully, rooting for the mom to say the right thing, etc. This was the biggest strength of the novel and makes it a great read for cis folks. It’s a lot. Each example is more than a micro aggression, but it accumulates similarly, such that suddenly the weight of all the bigotry and struggle is overwhelming. The MC is incredibly tough. He endures daily comments and interactions that would cripple me.
The bully, JT, was a bit confusing. At one point he seems to have a redemption arc, albeit a toxic one, only for us to see that it’s not a redemption arc at all and then he becomes more hateful than ever. I think the motives of his character are what threw me. It didn’t seem like a fully coherent origin story for the bullying. Or, I wanted it fleshed out more.
The climax involves an ultimatum by the principle which felt unlikely. The strength of the book is the way the kids are written. The novel excels in making you feel all the feels and depicting the trauma of navigating being trans in high school, but the nod to the politics feels so brief that I don’t know that it adds. I understand it would likely be a disservice to not acknowledge the partisan politics behind the themes of the novel. The aforementioned ultimatum is trying to speak to this politicization of trans rights and it feels tacked on. I will say, Mr. Corey has all the direct experience with school politicking and I have none. That being said in the 2020s I’m not sure that scene/ultimatum would have played out as it did.
There. Did it. Naturally it took as long as I thought it would. So maybe I’ll resort to bullet thoughts if I ever try again.
April 4, 2024
Thank you Page Street Publishing and Netgalley for providing me with an e-copy of this book for review.
This one was a tough one, honestly. I don’t get triggered easily, but Nate’s pure hatred for his body really triggered my gender dysphoria while reading this, something I’ve not experienced while reading before. I recommend checking the trigger warnings before going into this one.
I found Nate a really difficult character to like, if I’m being completely honest. I understood where he was coming from, I know he had a lot of emotional trauma to work through, but he was such an ass to every single person in his life at almost every turn and I found it absolutely infuriating. I kept waiting for him to realise he was being a jerk but he never really did. It was always everyone else’s fault.
That being said, I did really love the writing style. Corey has a way with words and this was so beautifully written. All the pain and happiness and anguish and love was so vivid and palpable. I also really appreciated reading a story like this with a transitioning teen at the heart of the story.
All in all, a heavy one, but one I’m glad I read.
This one was a tough one, honestly. I don’t get triggered easily, but Nate’s pure hatred for his body really triggered my gender dysphoria while reading this, something I’ve not experienced while reading before. I recommend checking the trigger warnings before going into this one.
I found Nate a really difficult character to like, if I’m being completely honest. I understood where he was coming from, I know he had a lot of emotional trauma to work through, but he was such an ass to every single person in his life at almost every turn and I found it absolutely infuriating. I kept waiting for him to realise he was being a jerk but he never really did. It was always everyone else’s fault.
That being said, I did really love the writing style. Corey has a way with words and this was so beautifully written. All the pain and happiness and anguish and love was so vivid and palpable. I also really appreciated reading a story like this with a transitioning teen at the heart of the story.
All in all, a heavy one, but one I’m glad I read.
May 28, 2024
Building toward prom, main character Kinkade is a trans boy who is in a transitional period of time in school. He's masculine facing most of the time but events like a family picture in which mom gives him a dress and shoes to wear when they head to the mall and several students from school see him don't help. There's a new girl at school Madi who seeing Kinkade as a trans boy, but many others don't including Kinkade's dad.
The book is certainly about the trans experience first and foremost and art (music specifically) and fitting in and being who you want especially in the face of bullying because a friend convinces Kincade to be the band that plays at prom. There's a family story with the older brother, mom, and dad in various states of "being in the know" with Kincade and the random job Kincade now has in which he showed up to take a look at adopting a dog only to not say anything and impersonate a boy who was going to start working at the shelter and assumes his identity. It's a little farfetched, however, the experiences of animal-human bonding will never get old.
I'm undecided. There are elements that work in the story and others that don't fit nicely.
The book is certainly about the trans experience first and foremost and art (music specifically) and fitting in and being who you want especially in the face of bullying because a friend convinces Kincade to be the band that plays at prom. There's a family story with the older brother, mom, and dad in various states of "being in the know" with Kincade and the random job Kincade now has in which he showed up to take a look at adopting a dog only to not say anything and impersonate a boy who was going to start working at the shelter and assumes his identity. It's a little farfetched, however, the experiences of animal-human bonding will never get old.
I'm undecided. There are elements that work in the story and others that don't fit nicely.
April 10, 2024
3.5/5 STARS! I loved the easy writing style & how real & relatable this is. You can easily connect with the situation & feel sympathy for Kay throughout. He's a trans high schooler & struggling to deal with his new identity while also trying to be what he thinks a boy/man should be. I really liked how this highlighted real issues teens go through, especially the bullying in school & transphobia in conservative towns. It does a great job of taking you inside what it may be like for someone like Kay/Nate, & gave you an inside perspective. My only complaint is I didn't like Nate at times. I felt he couldve been nicer (especially to Libby), & less judgey towards people himself, but that was typical teen behavior too. I did overall enjoy this (the romance was cute) & love incorporating more lgbtq+ characters/stories into my reading.
May 16, 2024
I'm always torn about books like this because while it does have important representation (and ends on a note of hope), it's unclear who the target audience is for this book. Partly because there is a lot of transphobia presented, but there's also descriptions of self harm and suicide that could be particularly triggering. Not to say these things shouldn't exist in YA, it just makes me wonder who this book was written for.
Kinkade does take quite an emotional journey in this book, helped partly along by his dad who is accepting of him. But at the beginning, he has a lot of notions about being a man that feed into the toxic masculinity trope. He learns differently by the end, but it does make him seem like kind of a jerk for a portion of the book.
I am glad this book exists, but I'm not sure who I would necessarily recommend it to.
Kinkade does take quite an emotional journey in this book, helped partly along by his dad who is accepting of him. But at the beginning, he has a lot of notions about being a man that feed into the toxic masculinity trope. He learns differently by the end, but it does make him seem like kind of a jerk for a portion of the book.
I am glad this book exists, but I'm not sure who I would necessarily recommend it to.
April 28, 2024
👧🏻 reviews: I am active with our school band and reading this story about Kinkade and his struggles can be quite nerve-wracking. He simply wanted to be accepted and why is it so hard to be recognized. This entire story is incredibly interesting because getting into Kinkade’s head and understanding his stride gave this book another twist in the story. Definitely something out of my reading scope but seriously grateful to have this opportunity to read and understand his message. Awesome book!
May 4, 2024
This is a book I stumbled up while browsing my (digital) library, and I'm glad I picked it up. Kinkade and his love interest frustrated me at times, but they're teenagers. They're not supposed to be perfect!
I loved the non-romantic relationships in the book the most, thought I do wish we'd gotten to see a little more of them. Also, Kinkade works at a dog shelter, and it is the sweetest thing ever.
**Major content warnings for transphobia. Take care of yourselves!
**Also content warning for death of a pet (off page, before the story starts)
I loved the non-romantic relationships in the book the most, thought I do wish we'd gotten to see a little more of them. Also, Kinkade works at a dog shelter, and it is the sweetest thing ever.
**Major content warnings for transphobia. Take care of yourselves!
**Also content warning for death of a pet (off page, before the story starts)
August 12, 2025
My brother and i reconnected with Mr Corey at Pride a couple years ago and bought this book. He read it earlier this year, and i finally got around to it this weekend
This is a book that feels real in this modern era of queer life, and triggers different emotions on nearly every page; some good, many that challenge comfort, and a few that I'm sure will dig up your own memories from high school!
This is a book that feels real in this modern era of queer life, and triggers different emotions on nearly every page; some good, many that challenge comfort, and a few that I'm sure will dig up your own memories from high school!
July 29, 2024
I think the trans representation in this book is solid, and an important narrative. I struggled with Kay's perception of what it means to be male, and it isn't ever really reconciled. I also didn't believe the actions of JT's character throughout the story, especially at the end. Mixed feelings about this one.
August 6, 2025
Loved this book! Definitely shows the harsh realities that can come with being trans. I will note that my copy of this book did come with a content warning, but I was already prepared since I had been reading reviews beforehand. Definitely recommend reading this book :)
May 2, 2024
One of those books that you can’t put down. The character development is so genuine and the plot keeps you turning pages until the very end. Highly recommend reading it!
May 23, 2024
While I did love this book and I saw a lot of my younger self in Kinkade, I took away one star due to the lack of trigger warnings.
That being said, I did genuinely enjoy this read!
That being said, I did genuinely enjoy this read!
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