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Will on the Inside
MP3 CD Format After dedicated soccer player Will is sidelined from the season--and his friend group--due to complications from his newly diagnosed Crohn's disease, he finds himself figuring out who he really is on the inside in this heartfelt and thoughtful middle grade novel that's perfect for readers who love books by Maulik Pancholy and Christine Day. Will loves playing center midfield on his middle school soccer team. This year, though, Will hasn't felt like himself; his stomach has been bothering him, and he has no energy at all. When his new doctor diagnoses him with Crohn's disease, Will hopes that means he'll start feeling better soon and he can get back to playing with his team before the season ends. But Will's new medicines come with all kinds of side effects, Forced to sit out afternoon practice, Will finds himself hanging out with a kid at school, Griffin. This could be a real problem, seeing as Griffin just asked Will's best friend to the spring dance. As in, guy friend. What would Will's teammates say if they knew the whole story? Not to mention Will's friends at church. With all these changes happening faster than he can process them, Will knows that he has a lot to figure out about who he really is on the inside. Andrew Eliopulos's middle grade debut is a memorable, affecting story that will have wide appeal.
1 pages, Audio CD
First published June 6, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
September 20, 2024
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As I said before, glad there's books like this out there. . Makes me happy to think of these getting into the hands of people who need them.
This was a balm after a rough time.. Will was very relatable and I could understand all sides in the story.
Wanted to give Will a hug so many times and send him a care package.
I was glad it dived into his anxiety...it was at the start of his mental health journey with some notes of hope at the end.
Would highly recommend.
As I said before, glad there's books like this out there. . Makes me happy to think of these getting into the hands of people who need them.
This was a balm after a rough time.. Will was very relatable and I could understand all sides in the story.
Wanted to give Will a hug so many times and send him a care package.
I was glad it dived into his anxiety...it was at the start of his mental health journey with some notes of hope at the end.
Would highly recommend.
July 25, 2023
Have I mentioned lately how much I love queer middle grade? This book is a great blend of a kid dealing with being diagnosed with a chronic illness alongside changing friendships and figuring out that he might not be straight. Will is having a rough time dealing with not being able to play on his soccer team due to having Crohn’s disease. His parents and doctors want him to adjust to his medication and not be in a flare up before they let him back on the field. But Will just wants to be with his teammates. When he can’t do that he starts hanging around with Griffin, a boy who Will knows asked another boy to the school dance.
I haven’t seen much chronic illness rep in middle grade, so I really loved getting Will’s perspective as he’s dealing with what some people might think of as an embarrassing topic. Will doesn’t really want to talk to his friends or parents about how bad some of his symptoms are because it involves talking about going to the bathroom. But the book shows the importance of being honest about what you’re experiencing because it can be harmful to hold certain things back.
Will’s friendship and growing feelings for Griffin were another lovely part of the book. At first Will is hesitant to let others know that he’s spending time with Griffin because he thinks his teammates or people from his church might have something negative to say. Will goes on a journey to have confidence in his friendship, figure out his feelings, and make up with Griffin for some of the ways he treated him poorly. I thought the place that the book ends in regards to Will’s identity made a lot of sense, he’s not quite sure what label fits him best.
Definitely check this one out if you love queer middle grade or books about chronic illness.
I haven’t seen much chronic illness rep in middle grade, so I really loved getting Will’s perspective as he’s dealing with what some people might think of as an embarrassing topic. Will doesn’t really want to talk to his friends or parents about how bad some of his symptoms are because it involves talking about going to the bathroom. But the book shows the importance of being honest about what you’re experiencing because it can be harmful to hold certain things back.
Will’s friendship and growing feelings for Griffin were another lovely part of the book. At first Will is hesitant to let others know that he’s spending time with Griffin because he thinks his teammates or people from his church might have something negative to say. Will goes on a journey to have confidence in his friendship, figure out his feelings, and make up with Griffin for some of the ways he treated him poorly. I thought the place that the book ends in regards to Will’s identity made a lot of sense, he’s not quite sure what label fits him best.
Definitely check this one out if you love queer middle grade or books about chronic illness.
June 10, 2023
This #ownvoices middle grade debut blew me away!!
I loved how real and relatable Will was as a young boy dealing with a new Crohn's diagnosis, struggling to find medication that worked for him, coming to terms with having to give up a lot of things he loves (food, soccer, etc).
There was also great mental health rep and a wonderful cast of queer secondary characters. The author tackled tough topics about homophobia and acceptance among school and Church communities.
Good on audio too, this was definitely a standout read for me and I can't recommend it enough! Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy in exchange for my honest review!
I loved how real and relatable Will was as a young boy dealing with a new Crohn's diagnosis, struggling to find medication that worked for him, coming to terms with having to give up a lot of things he loves (food, soccer, etc).
There was also great mental health rep and a wonderful cast of queer secondary characters. The author tackled tough topics about homophobia and acceptance among school and Church communities.
Good on audio too, this was definitely a standout read for me and I can't recommend it enough! Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy in exchange for my honest review!
August 23, 2023
Will on the Inside is a heartfelt account of one boy’s struggle to figure out who he is on the inside as he battles a health condition that changes everything. Will is a middle school student starring on his school’s soccer team when things start changing. He’s tired, his stomach hurts all the time and doesn’t feel like himself. After being diagnosed with Crohn’s disease, Will attempts to get back into his own life, but everything has changed: he’s dealing with side effects from his new medication, grappling with his time off from the soccer team when they need him the most, questioning his identity and trying to understand the conflicting messages he’s receiving from his church, too. When things become too much to handle, Will finally asks for help in making sense of it all so he can truly heal. Readers will feel an instant kinship to Will as he navigates his new reality. The author’s intimate understanding of Will’s condition paired with his ability to portray characters and situations with striking clarity and empathy for all sides is commendable. This book is for readers grappling with a similar health condition, questioning who they are on the inside or willing to ask tough questions about how the world works. It’s a must-read for middle grade readers and adults alike.
July 17, 2024
Like Will the main character in this story, my nephew was diagnosed with Crohn's disease at a young age. After reading this story, I have a much better idea of what he deals with on a regular basis. In addition to figuring out how to manage his Crohn's disease, Will is figuring out middle school friendships. Not able to finish the soccer because of his recent diagnosis, Will begins hanging out with Griffin who introduces him to the world of video games. Will enjoys spending time with Griffin but isn't sure that his best friend Henry or other soccer teammates will be ok with his new friend or new interest.
For anyone who is curious about what it would be like to be a young person with a chronic disease, check out this book.
For anyone who is curious about what it would be like to be a young person with a chronic disease, check out this book.
October 5, 2023
Aww! Will was an honest, relatable kid that you couldn't help feeling sorry for, though I'm sure he wouldn't want your pity. He navigated all the changes life was throwing at him so well, and I was rooting for him to come out on top. Luckily, I closed the book (well, I was doing an audiobook, but you get the idea) with a smile on my face. I'm happy I decided to pick this one up!
September 1, 2025
Crohn’s Disease, soccer, LGBTQ, friendship, family, gaming.
March 4, 2023
Favourite books of 2023 – January: Will on the Inside by Andrew Eliopulos.
‘Heartfelt and thoughtful’ is exactly right. I leapt at the opportunity to read this tender, gentle MG novel as soon as possible, and flew through it in a single day. It’s highly readable and Eliopulos gives Will an engaging, poignant yet fiery voice. I absolutely fell in love with Griffin and his yellow raincoat, and I’m sure many readers will feel the same way. As a fellow IBD sufferer (not Crohn’s, although Will’s experience was sadly too relatable), it felt incredible to read a book aimed at this age group featuring an anxious protagonist just starting to come to terms with his sexuality. Reading Will on the Inside felt immensely healing and I would recommend it without question.
rep: MC with Crohn’s disease and anxiety; MC; secondary character.
cw: homophobic bullying; religious trauma; blood; hospitalisation; anxiety; medical procedures corresponding to Crohn’s disease.
After being diagnosed with Crohn’s disease, Will loses his place on his beloved football team, and it looks like he’s also at risk of losing his friends. But when he meets Griffin, who has been ostracised and tormented after asking Will’s male best friend to the school dance, Will begins to wonder if his jealousy and fledgling feelings are pointing him in a more honest, authentic direction.
CAWPILE: 9.4 (5*)
disclaimer: I am grateful to have received an ARC of this book from Quill Tree Books via Edelweiss+ and I am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
Review written and ready to be posted, on hold in solidarity with the HarperCollins Union #HPCOnStrike (day 53).
‘Heartfelt and thoughtful’ is exactly right. I leapt at the opportunity to read this tender, gentle MG novel as soon as possible, and flew through it in a single day. It’s highly readable and Eliopulos gives Will an engaging, poignant yet fiery voice. I absolutely fell in love with Griffin and his yellow raincoat, and I’m sure many readers will feel the same way. As a fellow IBD sufferer (not Crohn’s, although Will’s experience was sadly too relatable), it felt incredible to read a book aimed at this age group featuring an anxious protagonist just starting to come to terms with his sexuality. Reading Will on the Inside felt immensely healing and I would recommend it without question.
rep: MC with Crohn’s disease and anxiety; MC; secondary character.
cw: homophobic bullying; religious trauma; blood; hospitalisation; anxiety; medical procedures corresponding to Crohn’s disease.
After being diagnosed with Crohn’s disease, Will loses his place on his beloved football team, and it looks like he’s also at risk of losing his friends. But when he meets Griffin, who has been ostracised and tormented after asking Will’s male best friend to the school dance, Will begins to wonder if his jealousy and fledgling feelings are pointing him in a more honest, authentic direction.
CAWPILE: 9.4 (5*)
disclaimer: I am grateful to have received an ARC of this book from Quill Tree Books via Edelweiss+ and I am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
August 7, 2023
Will on the Inside is a welcoming bridge for young teens to cross into the realm of more serious topics without it becoming overwhelming. What could have easily been an issue, Andrew Eliopulos tackles all the subject matter with grace. Since the story revolves so much around sexuality, spirituality, chronic disease, and family dynamics, I was worried that some of these topics would be pushed aside or not given the respect it so deserves. I was glad to have been proven wrong.
As an adult, I still like to read fiction that is aimed toward teens and kids because those books tend to be a nice palette cleanser for heavier reads. What I don't like about younger fiction is when it talks down to the reader. This doesn't happen here. While the subject matter maybe could have been written with more grounded writing, I don't think that would have worked. At that point, it really would have been overwhelming and I could see that pushing readers into an uncomfortable zone.
Maybe I read this at the right time in my life, but I'm glad that I did. A lot of the story beats hit close to home and I felt this connection with Will, our main character who is learning to live with Chrohn's disease. Will doesn't want to be treated differently because of this disease that people keep telling him there is no cure for. He just wants to go back to his life of playing junior high soccer. Instead, his world is turned upside down when he's told he can't play. On top of that, his best friend has just been asked to the school dance by another boy. He begins to question how he feels about that internally. All of that sounds like too much for one kid. Just wait till you find out that he is also religious.
Again, I have to hammer in the fact that Eliopulos handles all of this well. It could have been so easy to mess up how these characters react toward religion and sexuality. As a Utahn who has witnessed firsthand how a church can make someone who identifies within the LGBTQ+ community, I know that it's basically water mixing oil. But again, the way the story progresses, I saw myself in Will and I was just rooting for the kid. The way he handles bigotry while battling his own self was such a journey to be witnessing.
What I also loved was how the author opened my eyes to how one feels with a chronic illness, especially one that doesn't have a cure as of this writing. I don't find myself thinking often of how one goes through life having to deal with that and their day-to-day challenges. The familial bond here is what made it easy for me to sympathize with Will. There are so many human moments here that I felt like I knew these people. I just wanted to be friends with most of them.
All in all, Will on the Inside was wonderful. It tackles so much, but it was worth it in the end. I truly feel like I came out of this book with so much. I keep thinking about the characters and I would love to revisit them in the future. The ending was great, but now I'm questioning how a sequel would be. With how good this one was, I think Andrew Eliopulos could definitely take Will places and I would like to go on that next journey alongside him.
As an adult, I still like to read fiction that is aimed toward teens and kids because those books tend to be a nice palette cleanser for heavier reads. What I don't like about younger fiction is when it talks down to the reader. This doesn't happen here. While the subject matter maybe could have been written with more grounded writing, I don't think that would have worked. At that point, it really would have been overwhelming and I could see that pushing readers into an uncomfortable zone.
Maybe I read this at the right time in my life, but I'm glad that I did. A lot of the story beats hit close to home and I felt this connection with Will, our main character who is learning to live with Chrohn's disease. Will doesn't want to be treated differently because of this disease that people keep telling him there is no cure for. He just wants to go back to his life of playing junior high soccer. Instead, his world is turned upside down when he's told he can't play. On top of that, his best friend has just been asked to the school dance by another boy. He begins to question how he feels about that internally. All of that sounds like too much for one kid. Just wait till you find out that he is also religious.
Again, I have to hammer in the fact that Eliopulos handles all of this well. It could have been so easy to mess up how these characters react toward religion and sexuality. As a Utahn who has witnessed firsthand how a church can make someone who identifies within the LGBTQ+ community, I know that it's basically water mixing oil. But again, the way the story progresses, I saw myself in Will and I was just rooting for the kid. The way he handles bigotry while battling his own self was such a journey to be witnessing.
What I also loved was how the author opened my eyes to how one feels with a chronic illness, especially one that doesn't have a cure as of this writing. I don't find myself thinking often of how one goes through life having to deal with that and their day-to-day challenges. The familial bond here is what made it easy for me to sympathize with Will. There are so many human moments here that I felt like I knew these people. I just wanted to be friends with most of them.
All in all, Will on the Inside was wonderful. It tackles so much, but it was worth it in the end. I truly feel like I came out of this book with so much. I keep thinking about the characters and I would love to revisit them in the future. The ending was great, but now I'm questioning how a sequel would be. With how good this one was, I think Andrew Eliopulos could definitely take Will places and I would like to go on that next journey alongside him.
January 22, 2024
Prob 3.5 - I liked this and I think the rep about Crohn's is good, but I wish it went more into his anxiety.
May 2, 2025
Really enjoyed this one!
June 17, 2024
4,5/5 estrellas
Desde las entrañas es un libro que me ha encantado y me ha atrapado desde la primera página. Tanto es así, que para cuando me he dado cuenta ya iba por los últimos capítulos.
El protagonista es Will, un niño de doce años al que le diagnostican la enfermedad de Crohn y cuya vida cambia por completo a partir de este diagnóstico. Ya no puede jugar al futbol (que era lo que más le gustaba y donde se sentía más libre) por su salud y la relación con su mejor amigo se resiente a causa de malentendidos no hablados. Ahí es cuando encuentra apoyo donde menos lo esperaba, en Griffin y un videojuego en el que se puede olvidar de su vida, su enfermedad, y ser libre de nuevo.
La historia es preciosa, de esas que no puedes evitar que se te encoja el corazón en algunas escenas. Normalmente no suelo leer libros que traten enfermedades porque soy una persona que empatiza demasiado y hay momentos en los que no puedo evitar la angustia (aunque sea por un personaje de un libro), pero Desde las entrañas está contada tan bien, que ha merecido la pena pasar por algún pequeño momento así. Me ha gustado mucho vivirlo todo a través de la visión de alguien tan joven, como lleva esos cambios tan drásticos no solo en el deporte, también en la alimentación.
Desde las entrañas es un libro que da visibilidad a la enfermedad de Crohn, y a su vez habla de la importancia que tiene la salud mental, ya que padecer una enfermedad física de tal calibre acaba afectando mentalmente, y pedir ayuda no es malo, mostrar vulnerabilidad no es malo. También habla de las amistades y por cuales merece la pena luchar para mantenerlas. Recuerdo que al principio Will habla de remar todos en la misma dirección, de ser un equipo, y eso se va reflejando en pequeños detalles a lo largo de la historia, como en la comunidad religiosa, en el instituto... en como funciona todo, y como si algo se sale de su normalidad miran para otro lado, olvidan o muestran algo de crueldad. Todo lo que vive Will hace que madure en cierta manera y priorice, que deje de tener miedo del qué dirán y se preocupe por si mismo y la gente que de verdad le apoya.
Y podría decir muchísimas cosas más de este libro, pero me gustaría de verdad que lo descubrierais en primera persona leyendo cada capítulo y disfrutándolo hasta el final, como hice yo. Mi único pesar es que sea tan corto, porque es una historia de la que quiero más, mucho más, y es que Will es adorable y se merece todo lo mejor. Como siempre, Kakao Books publica libros que deberían ser lectura obligatoria en colegios e institutos.
Desde las entrañas es un libro que me ha encantado y me ha atrapado desde la primera página. Tanto es así, que para cuando me he dado cuenta ya iba por los últimos capítulos.
El protagonista es Will, un niño de doce años al que le diagnostican la enfermedad de Crohn y cuya vida cambia por completo a partir de este diagnóstico. Ya no puede jugar al futbol (que era lo que más le gustaba y donde se sentía más libre) por su salud y la relación con su mejor amigo se resiente a causa de malentendidos no hablados. Ahí es cuando encuentra apoyo donde menos lo esperaba, en Griffin y un videojuego en el que se puede olvidar de su vida, su enfermedad, y ser libre de nuevo.
La historia es preciosa, de esas que no puedes evitar que se te encoja el corazón en algunas escenas. Normalmente no suelo leer libros que traten enfermedades porque soy una persona que empatiza demasiado y hay momentos en los que no puedo evitar la angustia (aunque sea por un personaje de un libro), pero Desde las entrañas está contada tan bien, que ha merecido la pena pasar por algún pequeño momento así. Me ha gustado mucho vivirlo todo a través de la visión de alguien tan joven, como lleva esos cambios tan drásticos no solo en el deporte, también en la alimentación.
Desde las entrañas es un libro que da visibilidad a la enfermedad de Crohn, y a su vez habla de la importancia que tiene la salud mental, ya que padecer una enfermedad física de tal calibre acaba afectando mentalmente, y pedir ayuda no es malo, mostrar vulnerabilidad no es malo. También habla de las amistades y por cuales merece la pena luchar para mantenerlas. Recuerdo que al principio Will habla de remar todos en la misma dirección, de ser un equipo, y eso se va reflejando en pequeños detalles a lo largo de la historia, como en la comunidad religiosa, en el instituto... en como funciona todo, y como si algo se sale de su normalidad miran para otro lado, olvidan o muestran algo de crueldad. Todo lo que vive Will hace que madure en cierta manera y priorice, que deje de tener miedo del qué dirán y se preocupe por si mismo y la gente que de verdad le apoya.
Y podría decir muchísimas cosas más de este libro, pero me gustaría de verdad que lo descubrierais en primera persona leyendo cada capítulo y disfrutándolo hasta el final, como hice yo. Mi único pesar es que sea tan corto, porque es una historia de la que quiero más, mucho más, y es que Will es adorable y se merece todo lo mejor. Como siempre, Kakao Books publica libros que deberían ser lectura obligatoria en colegios e institutos.
April 29, 2025
« Errar es humano, perdonar divino »
Parecía que no me iba a gustar el libro, pero la verdad que entre el apagón y el domingo de trabajo conseguí acabarlo. Me ha parecido muy interesante el cómo mezcla el crohn con la exploración de la identidad en la adolescencia, aparte de que también te habla de la comunidad dentro de la vida católica ( metodista ). Recomendado como un libro light para meterte a las lecturas lgtb
4/⭐️
Parecía que no me iba a gustar el libro, pero la verdad que entre el apagón y el domingo de trabajo conseguí acabarlo. Me ha parecido muy interesante el cómo mezcla el crohn con la exploración de la identidad en la adolescencia, aparte de que también te habla de la comunidad dentro de la vida católica ( metodista ). Recomendado como un libro light para meterte a las lecturas lgtb
4/⭐️
May 23, 2025
hacia muchísimo tiempo que no me sentía tan representada en un personaje
February 23, 2023
E ARC provided by Edelweiss Plus
Will loves playing soccer, and enjoys the kids on his Oakwood, Georgia school team, like his friend Henry. Lately, however, he's been flat-on-his-face exhausted after game, and his stomach is always upset. His parents take him for a colonoscopy, and the doctor strongly suspects Crohn's Disease. He puts Will on corticosteroids and advises changes in his diet, but also says it's a good idea for Will to stop playing soccer altogether. He's not happy about the idea, but his stomach upsets involve protracted bathroom visits that are hard to manage when he is on the field. He is also attending a Weekend Warriors confirmation type class at his Baptist church, which is run by Mr. Dyson. Several of his classmates go there, and start asking questions. Classmate Griffin has asked Will's friend Henry to the school dance, and while Henry was thinking of asking Julie, he agrees to go at first. While Griffin is usually accepted, there was one soccer player and student, Francis, who wore rainbow socks and had come out as gay, but ended up transferring to a private school after being bullied. Will thinks that Griffin is really fun, and wants to be friends with him. The two bond over the Mirror Realms video game, and start hanging out together. Is it a crush? Will's not sure, but when people in the Weekend Warriors class start asking Mr. Dyson questions about their churches stance on gay people, Will starts to wonder if he is suffering from Crohn's because God is unhappy with Will's feelings. Is even hanging around with someone ewho is a "wrong thinker" going against his religion? He doesn't have a lot of time to dwell on these thought, since getting his disease under control. The steroids are making him break out, causing his face to be red, and giving him mood swings. Middle school is hard enough. How will Will deal with these additional changes?
Strengths: Will is an engaging character who is dealing with a lot. So many of my students are heavily invested in sports, so to see that taken away from a character creates immediate empathy. I love that his teammates still want him to ride on the bus, wear his jersey, etc., but my heart broke for Will when his disease wouldn't even let him do that. The confirmation class was well depicted, and Mr. Dyson carefully walks the line between adhering to the letter of the law in religion and adhering to the spirit of its tenets of kindess and compassion. Will's thoughts about religion are also in line with how middle school students think. Will's feelings towards Griffin are complicated and a bit amorphous; at the end, he ruminates as to how he identifies very briefly. Is he pan? Bi? Gay? While students in middle school certinaly are thinking about this, it is a process that they haven't necessarily completed, so I loved this light touch. The family, even the older sister, is warm and supportive. I enjoyed this one on many levels.
Weaknesses: I would have liked more details about how Griffin's diet was restricted. There is just enough information about the effects of Crohn's on Will's stomach; we get the idea without it being gross, but I am not familiar with the disease, so a bit more about the diet and ways to cope would have been instructive and interesting.
What I really think: Definitely purchasing, but if this goes to paperback, there should be a soccer ball somewhere on the cover. The cover is gorgeous, but putting sports front and center always leads to more circulation!
Will loves playing soccer, and enjoys the kids on his Oakwood, Georgia school team, like his friend Henry. Lately, however, he's been flat-on-his-face exhausted after game, and his stomach is always upset. His parents take him for a colonoscopy, and the doctor strongly suspects Crohn's Disease. He puts Will on corticosteroids and advises changes in his diet, but also says it's a good idea for Will to stop playing soccer altogether. He's not happy about the idea, but his stomach upsets involve protracted bathroom visits that are hard to manage when he is on the field. He is also attending a Weekend Warriors confirmation type class at his Baptist church, which is run by Mr. Dyson. Several of his classmates go there, and start asking questions. Classmate Griffin has asked Will's friend Henry to the school dance, and while Henry was thinking of asking Julie, he agrees to go at first. While Griffin is usually accepted, there was one soccer player and student, Francis, who wore rainbow socks and had come out as gay, but ended up transferring to a private school after being bullied. Will thinks that Griffin is really fun, and wants to be friends with him. The two bond over the Mirror Realms video game, and start hanging out together. Is it a crush? Will's not sure, but when people in the Weekend Warriors class start asking Mr. Dyson questions about their churches stance on gay people, Will starts to wonder if he is suffering from Crohn's because God is unhappy with Will's feelings. Is even hanging around with someone ewho is a "wrong thinker" going against his religion? He doesn't have a lot of time to dwell on these thought, since getting his disease under control. The steroids are making him break out, causing his face to be red, and giving him mood swings. Middle school is hard enough. How will Will deal with these additional changes?
Strengths: Will is an engaging character who is dealing with a lot. So many of my students are heavily invested in sports, so to see that taken away from a character creates immediate empathy. I love that his teammates still want him to ride on the bus, wear his jersey, etc., but my heart broke for Will when his disease wouldn't even let him do that. The confirmation class was well depicted, and Mr. Dyson carefully walks the line between adhering to the letter of the law in religion and adhering to the spirit of its tenets of kindess and compassion. Will's thoughts about religion are also in line with how middle school students think. Will's feelings towards Griffin are complicated and a bit amorphous; at the end, he ruminates as to how he identifies very briefly. Is he pan? Bi? Gay? While students in middle school certinaly are thinking about this, it is a process that they haven't necessarily completed, so I loved this light touch. The family, even the older sister, is warm and supportive. I enjoyed this one on many levels.
Weaknesses: I would have liked more details about how Griffin's diet was restricted. There is just enough information about the effects of Crohn's on Will's stomach; we get the idea without it being gross, but I am not familiar with the disease, so a bit more about the diet and ways to cope would have been instructive and interesting.
What I really think: Definitely purchasing, but if this goes to paperback, there should be a soccer ball somewhere on the cover. The cover is gorgeous, but putting sports front and center always leads to more circulation!
July 17, 2024
I can't say enough good things about this book. I picked it up with the intention of checking out some middle grade books for my classroom, and it far exceeded my expectations. I genuinely enjoyed it, even as a middle aged woman.
In this novel, Will, the protagonist, is struggling with his newly diagnosed Crohn's disease. He feels like his parents are treating him with kid gloves and his friends are pulling away. He meets another boy who introduces him to gaming, something he can still do while getting control of his Crohn's, but this boy is likely gay, which causes Will to ask questions about himself, his friend group, and his faith.
The things I LOVED about this book:
+ It does middle school so well without going too deep in slang that will be dated in five seconds. I have a son in middle school, and there were so many times I thought, "This is exactly J."
+ It handles faith/religion respectfully. Faith is an important part of my life, but there is a lot of tension between Christianity and LGBTQ+. I love love love when I find novels that bridge them together.
+ THE BOOK MENTIONS PANSEXUALITY. Okay, I know I didn't have to scream it, but do you know how many LGBTQ+ novels I've read? A lot. A lot lot. This sweet little unassuming middle grade novel was the FIRST to mention being pan as a sexuality that even exists. It's hard enough finding novels that validate bisexuality, so this was amazing.
+ Will doesn't have a definitive answer for his sexuality by the end of the book. Some kids know for sure early on. Some don't. In my experience, most books lean toward the former, so it's nice to see a book going the latter path, saying, "Hey. It's okay that you don't know."
+ It has soccer. Soccer's great.
+ There aren't enough books out there for kids dealing with chronic illnesses. Autoimmune illnesses in particular. I deeply wish this book had come out three years ago, because my son has an autoimmune disease, and he struggles with so many of the same feelings Will does. I think this book could have helped him feel not so alone. I may try to get him to read it now, but at 13, he will probably tell me he's too old for it :) He's fully into YA territory now.
Honestly, I think this novel is great for almost any age, but the sweet spot is probably ages 10-11, give or take a year.
In this novel, Will, the protagonist, is struggling with his newly diagnosed Crohn's disease. He feels like his parents are treating him with kid gloves and his friends are pulling away. He meets another boy who introduces him to gaming, something he can still do while getting control of his Crohn's, but this boy is likely gay, which causes Will to ask questions about himself, his friend group, and his faith.
The things I LOVED about this book:
+ It does middle school so well without going too deep in slang that will be dated in five seconds. I have a son in middle school, and there were so many times I thought, "This is exactly J."
+ It handles faith/religion respectfully. Faith is an important part of my life, but there is a lot of tension between Christianity and LGBTQ+. I love love love when I find novels that bridge them together.
+ THE BOOK MENTIONS PANSEXUALITY. Okay, I know I didn't have to scream it, but do you know how many LGBTQ+ novels I've read? A lot. A lot lot. This sweet little unassuming middle grade novel was the FIRST to mention being pan as a sexuality that even exists. It's hard enough finding novels that validate bisexuality, so this was amazing.
+ Will doesn't have a definitive answer for his sexuality by the end of the book. Some kids know for sure early on. Some don't. In my experience, most books lean toward the former, so it's nice to see a book going the latter path, saying, "Hey. It's okay that you don't know."
+ It has soccer. Soccer's great.
+ There aren't enough books out there for kids dealing with chronic illnesses. Autoimmune illnesses in particular. I deeply wish this book had come out three years ago, because my son has an autoimmune disease, and he struggles with so many of the same feelings Will does. I think this book could have helped him feel not so alone. I may try to get him to read it now, but at 13, he will probably tell me he's too old for it :) He's fully into YA territory now.
Honestly, I think this novel is great for almost any age, but the sweet spot is probably ages 10-11, give or take a year.
September 2, 2023
Growing up isn’t always easy.
What an achingly realistic depiction of middle school angst! Some of the most memorable scenes were the ones that explored how quickly things can change for kids that age. Will’s friendship group was evolving just as rapidly as his relationships with his parents and older sister were. No sooner did he think he had everything figured out than another growing pain would appear as he or someone around him tested the boundaries of what people their age should say or do. It was so interesting to see how Will showed glimpses of his younger, more playful self in some scenes and bursts of maturity in others. The author captured the preteen years wonderfully there.
I would have loved to see more attention paid to the dietary aspect of Crohn’s disease. When I was Will’s age, I was diagnosed with a different illness that includes food restrictions and know how difficult it can be for a kid to suddenly not be able to eat all sorts of dishes their friends and family members can still enjoy. Food plays such a major role in socialization and bonding that it can be painfully isolating to be left out of those rituals, especially if it’s due to something completely out of your control. Had Will’s food restrictions and his thoughts about what he could and couldn’t eat been given more attention, I would have chosen a full five-star rating.
This was one of the first, if not the very first, books I’ve ever read that include both inspirational and LGBTQ+ themes. While the main storyline was focused on Will’s difficult adjustment to his diagnosis and his struggles as a young athlete with a life-threatening illness, I enjoyed seeing how his faith and his questions about his sexual orientation shaped his life as well. People’s identities can be complex sometimes, and it was refreshing to see how much nuance was included every time these topics came up. There was no preachiness to be found anywhere, only honest questions about Will’s relationships with God and the people around him.
Will on the Inside was a hopeful, encouraging, and dare I say inspiring read.
What an achingly realistic depiction of middle school angst! Some of the most memorable scenes were the ones that explored how quickly things can change for kids that age. Will’s friendship group was evolving just as rapidly as his relationships with his parents and older sister were. No sooner did he think he had everything figured out than another growing pain would appear as he or someone around him tested the boundaries of what people their age should say or do. It was so interesting to see how Will showed glimpses of his younger, more playful self in some scenes and bursts of maturity in others. The author captured the preteen years wonderfully there.
I would have loved to see more attention paid to the dietary aspect of Crohn’s disease. When I was Will’s age, I was diagnosed with a different illness that includes food restrictions and know how difficult it can be for a kid to suddenly not be able to eat all sorts of dishes their friends and family members can still enjoy. Food plays such a major role in socialization and bonding that it can be painfully isolating to be left out of those rituals, especially if it’s due to something completely out of your control. Had Will’s food restrictions and his thoughts about what he could and couldn’t eat been given more attention, I would have chosen a full five-star rating.
This was one of the first, if not the very first, books I’ve ever read that include both inspirational and LGBTQ+ themes. While the main storyline was focused on Will’s difficult adjustment to his diagnosis and his struggles as a young athlete with a life-threatening illness, I enjoyed seeing how his faith and his questions about his sexual orientation shaped his life as well. People’s identities can be complex sometimes, and it was refreshing to see how much nuance was included every time these topics came up. There was no preachiness to be found anywhere, only honest questions about Will’s relationships with God and the people around him.
Will on the Inside was a hopeful, encouraging, and dare I say inspiring read.
July 2, 2023
Book Title: Will on the Inside
Author: Andrew Eliopulos
Publication Year: 2023
Publisher: Quill Tree Books/Harper Collins
Will on the Inside was an absolute pleasure to read. I loved how realistic, yet true to the age group of the characters it was. This middle-grade book really epitomizes the type of fiction middle-grader readers need in 2023.
In this book, Will, is an avid soccer player, a middle-schooler, and recently diagnosed with Crohn’s disease. Will is also trying to figure out his own identity and if he is part of the LGBTQ community, or not. Throughout the book he works through friendships with his best friend, his own medical issues, his ability to continue playing soccer in the face of his disease, his friendship with a gay middle-school friend, homophobia, religion in the south, and trying to just be a “normal” middle school kid. In the end, the story has a realistic closure that doesn’t necessarily tie everything up in a nice bow - an ending that feels real and authentic.
This book is written well and I wish it had been available when I was a middle-schooler. While I don’t have Crohn’s disease specifically, the representation of what it means to live with chronic illness from a young age while also trying to follow your passions and discover who you are was eye-opening. I think that a lot of kids will see themselves in this book. This is an unforgettable story about an unforgettable character.
4 Stars!
Content Warnings: chronic illness, homophobia, bullying
Author: Andrew Eliopulos
Publication Year: 2023
Publisher: Quill Tree Books/Harper Collins
Will on the Inside was an absolute pleasure to read. I loved how realistic, yet true to the age group of the characters it was. This middle-grade book really epitomizes the type of fiction middle-grader readers need in 2023.
In this book, Will, is an avid soccer player, a middle-schooler, and recently diagnosed with Crohn’s disease. Will is also trying to figure out his own identity and if he is part of the LGBTQ community, or not. Throughout the book he works through friendships with his best friend, his own medical issues, his ability to continue playing soccer in the face of his disease, his friendship with a gay middle-school friend, homophobia, religion in the south, and trying to just be a “normal” middle school kid. In the end, the story has a realistic closure that doesn’t necessarily tie everything up in a nice bow - an ending that feels real and authentic.
This book is written well and I wish it had been available when I was a middle-schooler. While I don’t have Crohn’s disease specifically, the representation of what it means to live with chronic illness from a young age while also trying to follow your passions and discover who you are was eye-opening. I think that a lot of kids will see themselves in this book. This is an unforgettable story about an unforgettable character.
4 Stars!
Content Warnings: chronic illness, homophobia, bullying
July 10, 2024
I am so glad I came across this book.
Will on the Inside is about Will, who is forced to give up playing soccer due to a Crohn's disease diagnosis. He makes a new friend outside of soccer and church, Griffin, who introduces him to Mirror Realms (a video game). One of Will's teammates bullies Griffin for asking Henry (Will's best friend) to the school dance. Will questions his own sexuality throughout the narrative, as well as how to manage his new friendship with Griffin and his old soccer buddies. Will just wants to get back to playing soccer and living his normal life, so he doesn't want to tell anyone that his symptoms are worsening. Eventually it reaches the point that he is hospitalized.
Eliopulos has Crohn's, and much of the story was inspired by his own days in middle school. From my own Crohn's experiences, I thought what Will goes through and describes was really realistic: moon face from prednisone, frequent and painful trips to the bathroom (always at the worst possible time), needing to get an iron infusion, starting on a biological, et cetera. This book does such an excellent job of showing what a Crohn's flare is like.
I was touched by the way Henry, Griffin, and other friends supported him while he was hospitalized. I also liked his parents, who were caring, to the point where he felt smothered at times.
This book is just so spot-on with everything. I'm so glad it exists.
Will on the Inside is about Will, who is forced to give up playing soccer due to a Crohn's disease diagnosis. He makes a new friend outside of soccer and church, Griffin, who introduces him to Mirror Realms (a video game). One of Will's teammates bullies Griffin for asking Henry (Will's best friend) to the school dance. Will questions his own sexuality throughout the narrative, as well as how to manage his new friendship with Griffin and his old soccer buddies. Will just wants to get back to playing soccer and living his normal life, so he doesn't want to tell anyone that his symptoms are worsening. Eventually it reaches the point that he is hospitalized.
Eliopulos has Crohn's, and much of the story was inspired by his own days in middle school. From my own Crohn's experiences, I thought what Will goes through and describes was really realistic: moon face from prednisone, frequent and painful trips to the bathroom (always at the worst possible time), needing to get an iron infusion, starting on a biological, et cetera. This book does such an excellent job of showing what a Crohn's flare is like.
I was touched by the way Henry, Griffin, and other friends supported him while he was hospitalized. I also liked his parents, who were caring, to the point where he felt smothered at times.
This book is just so spot-on with everything. I'm so glad it exists.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 21, 2025
This book was such a winner. It felt honest and real and it made me cry when I read the part at the end about this being based on the authors own life experiences.
The middle school friend drift/making of new friends is real, and tough, and I thought the author did a very good job of describing what it’s like to have all these questions in middle school and not know where to go for answers. It also seemed very typical for boy brain thinking (also middle school kid thinking- but very boy centric. Girls would like this book and find many parts relatable!)
I am shocked at how much Chron’s disease disrupted his life from the very beginning. There is clearly a lot I don’t know about that disease, even though I know several people with it. I cannot imagine what it was like growing up with that, but the author does a great job at the end of talking about how he has managed it through the years and there is always hope and good days.
I would total recommend this 5th-8th grade. Probably more interesting for older middle school kids. Sports kids (especially soccer kids) would enjoy this- and even gamer kids! There are LGBTQ themes and positive interactions with grownups about it. It’s depicted in a very real and honest way, and I appreciate the way it’s handled. They talk about making change, being change and asking for change- all positive models for kids in their own lives.
Cannot wait to hand this to my middle schooler and see what he thinks.
The middle school friend drift/making of new friends is real, and tough, and I thought the author did a very good job of describing what it’s like to have all these questions in middle school and not know where to go for answers. It also seemed very typical for boy brain thinking (also middle school kid thinking- but very boy centric. Girls would like this book and find many parts relatable!)
I am shocked at how much Chron’s disease disrupted his life from the very beginning. There is clearly a lot I don’t know about that disease, even though I know several people with it. I cannot imagine what it was like growing up with that, but the author does a great job at the end of talking about how he has managed it through the years and there is always hope and good days.
I would total recommend this 5th-8th grade. Probably more interesting for older middle school kids. Sports kids (especially soccer kids) would enjoy this- and even gamer kids! There are LGBTQ themes and positive interactions with grownups about it. It’s depicted in a very real and honest way, and I appreciate the way it’s handled. They talk about making change, being change and asking for change- all positive models for kids in their own lives.
Cannot wait to hand this to my middle schooler and see what he thinks.
July 12, 2025
While i doubt I'm the target audience (34yo), I really enjoyed this book. Will was such an easy protagonist to connect to, well-written, and believable. His relationships with his family and friends came across as natural, which I feel is something a lot of authors can struggle with, in particular with younger characters. And finally, the story was great. A tough topic, to be sure, but full of heart and I really cared to see the character through his hardships.
I really hope this novel is picked up by a lot of tween/teen readers because it's so important to have characters like this. Will's difficulties with his illness may not be something a lot of kids are going through exactly, but exposure to these kinds of things helps to build empathy and understanding for what other people are going through.
It also does a great job showing that Will's life is multi-faceted. He has his soccer friends, his church group, and later has his online friends. And he gets different interactions and support from different places. I thought that, again, felt real and important that kids see they can get support from different places when they're going through tough times.
Great book, I hope you pick it up!
I really hope this novel is picked up by a lot of tween/teen readers because it's so important to have characters like this. Will's difficulties with his illness may not be something a lot of kids are going through exactly, but exposure to these kinds of things helps to build empathy and understanding for what other people are going through.
It also does a great job showing that Will's life is multi-faceted. He has his soccer friends, his church group, and later has his online friends. And he gets different interactions and support from different places. I thought that, again, felt real and important that kids see they can get support from different places when they're going through tough times.
Great book, I hope you pick it up!
May 13, 2023
This was a terrific debut! Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an opportunity to read a digital ARC of this book.
One of my goals this year is to read more middle grade fiction where the main characters are boys. Since I have 2 girls, I tend to read more fiction by women author's featuring young girls. While I still plan on doing that, I'm looking to expand my reading palette, and this one was a great book to recommend to middle school aged boys.
Will is an extremely likeable kid. And he's going through a real tough time! Having recently being diagnosed with Crohn's disease, Will is undergoing different medications to try to deal with the flare-ups that keep increasing. Due to this, Will has to sit out the soccer season, and he finds himself struggling to keep up his friendships and well as his grades.
Without giving anything away, Will is also exploring his identity and what that might mean for him. He befriends a kid who is much more open about his identity and sexual orientation, and Will wonders if he might be something other than a cisgender straight person.
Really, really excellent book that I can't wait to recommend to young readers!
One of my goals this year is to read more middle grade fiction where the main characters are boys. Since I have 2 girls, I tend to read more fiction by women author's featuring young girls. While I still plan on doing that, I'm looking to expand my reading palette, and this one was a great book to recommend to middle school aged boys.
Will is an extremely likeable kid. And he's going through a real tough time! Having recently being diagnosed with Crohn's disease, Will is undergoing different medications to try to deal with the flare-ups that keep increasing. Due to this, Will has to sit out the soccer season, and he finds himself struggling to keep up his friendships and well as his grades.
Without giving anything away, Will is also exploring his identity and what that might mean for him. He befriends a kid who is much more open about his identity and sexual orientation, and Will wonders if he might be something other than a cisgender straight person.
Really, really excellent book that I can't wait to recommend to young readers!
September 19, 2023
Stand-out middle school soccer player Will has been sidelined with a recent diagnosis of Crohn's disease and the symptoms that come with it. Readers will be drawn into Will's uncertainty as he navigates Crohn's, the side-effects of his new medications, and life without soccer, which he has to avoid until his symptoms are under control. With soccer on the backburner he connects with theater-kid Griffin and explores a new world in online gaming.
Through Will, Eliopulos illuminates the struggle many adolescents go through when trying to figure out who they truly are. Will's primary hurdle is how to redefine himself without soccer and under the scrutiny he feels due to his diagnosis. The novel also contains thoughtful conversations and questions about how/whether families that include LGBTQIA+ members are welcome in Will's church community. The exploration of sexual identity is handled in the context of questions many middle grade readers may be asking. The author's personal experiences lend an authenticity to the story that will have readers rooting for a happy ending.
Recommended for readers in grades 5-8.
Through Will, Eliopulos illuminates the struggle many adolescents go through when trying to figure out who they truly are. Will's primary hurdle is how to redefine himself without soccer and under the scrutiny he feels due to his diagnosis. The novel also contains thoughtful conversations and questions about how/whether families that include LGBTQIA+ members are welcome in Will's church community. The exploration of sexual identity is handled in the context of questions many middle grade readers may be asking. The author's personal experiences lend an authenticity to the story that will have readers rooting for a happy ending.
Recommended for readers in grades 5-8.
Read
March 29, 2024WILL ON THE INSIDE by Andrew Eliopulos is a story about dealing with Crohn's disease. Will is a seventh grader who loves soccer. The team is going to have to handle the season without him because he has been diagnosed with Crohn's. He has been suffering in silence, but he realizes he needs to speak up.
For a while now, Will has been planning his school days, including soccer practice and games, around knowing where he can find the nearest bathroom. Eating means constantly watching out for foods that will trigger his stomach to rebel.
Now that Will has told his parents about how sick he sometimes feels, he is learning about colonoscopies, steroids, flare ups, and remissions. Tragically, he learns there is no cure for Crohn's, but he is told it is possible to manage it. How will his teammates react to the news? Will his new friend Griffin understand? Is it Will's own fault that he has this disease? Will finds family, friends, and even his faith can help him deal with these life changes.
WILL ON THE INSIDE will help readers better understand a disease that isn't always visible on the outside but causes major internal suffering for many on the inside.
For a while now, Will has been planning his school days, including soccer practice and games, around knowing where he can find the nearest bathroom. Eating means constantly watching out for foods that will trigger his stomach to rebel.
Now that Will has told his parents about how sick he sometimes feels, he is learning about colonoscopies, steroids, flare ups, and remissions. Tragically, he learns there is no cure for Crohn's, but he is told it is possible to manage it. How will his teammates react to the news? Will his new friend Griffin understand? Is it Will's own fault that he has this disease? Will finds family, friends, and even his faith can help him deal with these life changes.
WILL ON THE INSIDE will help readers better understand a disease that isn't always visible on the outside but causes major internal suffering for many on the inside.
March 7, 2023
I recieved a free eARC of this book. Thank you for the opportunity to read it.
Will is an avid soccer player, with a friend circle af school and in his church youth group. He also has chrohn's disease, which is affecting him academically, sidelining him on the soccer team, and generally wrecking his life. When he makes friends with a classmate, who introduces him to an online role playing game, who is rumored to be gay, he also starts questioning his sexuality-and his faith.
This is a very real book that doesn't shy away from the problems IBD causes for those who have the condition. Nor does it shy from the pressures LGBT kids inside established churches feel and how even an "affirming" church sometimes doesn't feel so. It will help kidswho are dealing with the same issues Will is-but also those who have classmates and friends who are. There is absolutely no sexual content, nothing inappropriate, nothing but the concerns that many kids live with daily.
I hope this book gets the inclusion it deserves in school and community libraries.
Will is an avid soccer player, with a friend circle af school and in his church youth group. He also has chrohn's disease, which is affecting him academically, sidelining him on the soccer team, and generally wrecking his life. When he makes friends with a classmate, who introduces him to an online role playing game, who is rumored to be gay, he also starts questioning his sexuality-and his faith.
This is a very real book that doesn't shy away from the problems IBD causes for those who have the condition. Nor does it shy from the pressures LGBT kids inside established churches feel and how even an "affirming" church sometimes doesn't feel so. It will help kidswho are dealing with the same issues Will is-but also those who have classmates and friends who are. There is absolutely no sexual content, nothing inappropriate, nothing but the concerns that many kids live with daily.
I hope this book gets the inclusion it deserves in school and community libraries.
April 18, 2024
Realistic fiction for ages 9-12, I really enjoyed this book about a 7th grade boy just diagnosed with Chron's disease. He has to sit out from soccer until his symptoms are under control, and as a result, makes a couple of new friends and re-evaluates his current ones. Will isn't sure about his sexual preference yet, but thinks deeply about how LGBTQ+ people are treated in his school, and feels good and happy when he's around his new, gay friend. A video game also features prominently in the book, and though the concern of spending too much time on it is clear, the value of a multi-player game--a space where you can feel safe/more in control/can forget about your illness is important. An unusual element of the book is the importance of the family's church, their faith, asking the pastor and other members for advice. It is rare to read a book that includes Sunday school class. That really sets this book apart. Other themes are mental health, friendship, family relationships, autonomy, asking for help, and more. Tender author's note at the end.
January 2, 2024
Will’s story will resonate with middle grade readers who are overcoming their own obstacles and learning more about themselves. Andrew Eliopulos has written a brilliant coming-of-age story about a seventh grader dealing with a new Crohn’s diagnosis, middle school anxieties, and questions about the person he’s becoming.
I especially loved the way Eliopolus writes about the realities of middle school friendships and conflicts. He’s given middle grade readers an understanding of how to respond to the cruel conversations they might find themselves in, examples of how to be an ally, and permission to accept that they don’t have to have all the answers about themselves yet.
Special thanks to NetGalley and Quill Tree Books for an eARC in exchange for my honest review.
I especially loved the way Eliopolus writes about the realities of middle school friendships and conflicts. He’s given middle grade readers an understanding of how to respond to the cruel conversations they might find themselves in, examples of how to be an ally, and permission to accept that they don’t have to have all the answers about themselves yet.
Special thanks to NetGalley and Quill Tree Books for an eARC in exchange for my honest review.
November 12, 2024
Eliopulos has written for teens before [the wonderful Fascinators] but is less successful with the intermediate tween age group. Will, 12-ish, has Chrohn’s Disease – a disease of the bowel. The active soccer player details the year he is diagnosed and how his life, and that of his friends and family, is turned inside out – literally! Whilst the author has Chrohn’s too, there tends to be a fairly large amount of symptoms per page. There are lighter side characters - and some of them LGBTQi+ . Will himself may not be who he thinks he is during the novel, and Griffin, his computer-gaming friend, helps him see there are others around that are different to him. The parents come across as understanding, if overprotective. Some religious content. Somewhat recommended!
January 12, 2024
Sexuality is a subplot in this excellent middle-grade novel about a 7th-grade boy diagnosed with Crohn's disease. Along with the normal day-in day-out middle school issues, (friends, homework, grades--who to sit with at lunch) Will is worried about proximity to a private bathroom at all times, as his concerned parents hover in the background. Elipulos does a great job of weaving Will's uncertainty of his feelings about a boy named Griffin while participating and worshiping at the Baptist church in town. There are very realistic conversations between Will and his Sunday school teacher and pastor that give the reader hope. Nicely done!
February 6, 2024
Will felt like a real seventh grader to me - one that is balancing trying to figure out what sort of person he is while fitting in with his friends and soccer team. The pride that Will and the other team players have when they wore their jerseys and got to be dismissed early for games felt particularly authentic. I felt strongly for Will who desperately wanted to be out on the field, but because of his Crohn's disease had to step aside and let another player take his spot. I would recommend this to fans of soccer books, but also to anyone that wants a reflective novel about trying to find one's place in middle school, a place that is often hurtful and unaccepting.
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