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Actually Invisible
Josie has felt invisible for most of her life—first as the only lesbian at her high school in the '90s, then in a secret relationship with her closeted girlfriend, and now in a closet of her own as an English teacher at a suburban high school. Her silence is safe, stifling, and second-nature on most days and has taken a backseat to the monumental tasks of grieving her beloved father’s death and undergoing fertility treatments in her limited spare time.
...until a student comes out to her in a writing assignment, and she is thrust into a small-town spotlight. As the target of the student’s angry parents and a slew of anonymous threats, Josie must decide if it’s finally time to speak up for herself and risk her job, her family, and her ambivalence.
...until a student comes out to her in a writing assignment, and she is thrust into a small-town spotlight. As the target of the student’s angry parents and a slew of anonymous threats, Josie must decide if it’s finally time to speak up for herself and risk her job, her family, and her ambivalence.
- GenresLGBTContemporary
296 pages, Hardcover
Published March 29, 2024
8 people are currently reading
221 people want to read
About the author
Elisa Greb
1 book11 followersElisa Greb has a B.A. in English Literature and a M.Ed. in Secondary English Education. She loves all things to do with words—reading, writing, poetry, grammar, linguistics, and more—and is a sucker for a good pun and a well-planned road trip. She lives in Pittsburgh with her wife and two sons.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
April 3, 2024
5 Stars!! **Spoiler Free**
Elisa Greb is one of those truly special authors who can make a character viscerally come to life for their readers. Josie’s journey to her present day, to her current life, is tumultuous but Greb does a phenomenal job of weaving each adversity into a lesson to be carried back into the world when your reading is done.
In regards to the plot:
Josie is a teacher who, though proud of her identity and the family she has built with her wife, is forced by the nature of her community and her job to keep quiet those parts of herself and her life. For anyone who has ever been called “too nice”, who has ever considered themselves a people pleaser – spending your life bending over backwards outside of your own comfort and joy for the benefit of others – Greb’s words are like a transcript of your inner thoughts. It is easy when you follow this pattern to truly feel invisible to the world and the people around you.
When a student comes out to Josie in a class writing assignment, Josie is faced with conflicts that force a decision between continuing to appease those around her or using her voice and her identity to help support those looking up to her.
I wasn’t anticipating a slight mystery element to the plot so that was an unexpected and pleasant twist in my opinion. It gave the story another driving element, which I think lended well to the overall tension and build up to the climactic conflict of the novel.
In regards to the content within the plot:
As the novel progresses through these conflicts, it follows a multi-timeline structure. Personally, I am not typically a fan of moving timelines within stories because I easily lose track of the chain of events. However, I think the usage in this instance was so pivotal to show the vulnerability that makes Josie’s character so lovable and relatable. I felt that the split timeline showed that some vulnerabilities are intrinsically a part of who we are and though we adapt to them through time they are always a part of us, and so formative to our beings. Following Josie through each phase of her life allowed this novel to become not only a coming of age story, but also a “coming of adult” story. It showcases the awkwardness of adolescence and the journey of self discovery of young adulthood that we all face, regardless of sexuality.
There are several *trigger warnings* to consider when picking up Actually Invisible, including infertility, body dysmorphia and binge eating, anxiety, homophobia, spousal disagreements, bullying and harassment, stalking, school safety and weapons, grief and addiction. While some readers may find this many separate topics to be an overload, I personally felt that it amplified the dimensionality of Josie’s character. None of us are one dimensional, dealing with only one struggle at a time. For me, this made Josie’s character resonate ten-fold, and I truly feel that she will do so with many other readers as well. Whether you find familiarity in one or multiple of the struggles that Josie is juggling, there is a vein of vulnerability for everyone to relate to here.
In regards to the structure of the novel:
Actually Invisible jumps directly into the conflict and plot of the novel. It does so gracefully – you do not feel like you are missing any pertinent information but you also don’t feel as though you have to wade through endless chapters of exposition to be invested in the characters and the story. There are multiple conflicts, both personally and professionally, that are embedded within each timeline. Though I am not typically a fan of jumping timelines, I felt like the usage in this story – in combination with short, digestible chapters – really drove the pacing of the plotline and had me itching to see what would happen next in each timeline.
This novel was written by an English teacher, and you can tell – in the best way! Often when you pick up a novel by a debut author it is with a healthy dose of skepticism. I am not an aggressively heavy critique when it comes to writing quality, but in turn I believe that quality writing can really elevate the reading experience. This is a perfect example of that experience. If I absolutely HAD to nitpick anything about the novel, it would be that some of the dialogue could’ve been a touch more colloquial. However, I would MUCH prefer to read a novel with slightly more formal dialogue and higher quality prose in between than to read one with highly conversational dialogue and painfully conversational and casual exposition.
My overall takeaways:
I think this novel is a must read for anyone of any age. The message that Elisa Greb conveys is one of acceptance, and one that shows how deeply the effects of that acceptance (or lack thereof) can radiate within a person. I think that reading Josie’s story is the epitome of “walking in someone else’s shoes.” The insight Greb provides into the heart and soul of Josie’s situation is POWERFUL. Knowledge is powerful. Understanding is powerful. Compassion is powerful. Knowledge leads to understanding, understanding leads to compassion. Reading this story can and will open those vitally important doors for anyone.
Elisa Greb is one of those truly special authors who can make a character viscerally come to life for their readers. Josie’s journey to her present day, to her current life, is tumultuous but Greb does a phenomenal job of weaving each adversity into a lesson to be carried back into the world when your reading is done.
In regards to the plot:
Josie is a teacher who, though proud of her identity and the family she has built with her wife, is forced by the nature of her community and her job to keep quiet those parts of herself and her life. For anyone who has ever been called “too nice”, who has ever considered themselves a people pleaser – spending your life bending over backwards outside of your own comfort and joy for the benefit of others – Greb’s words are like a transcript of your inner thoughts. It is easy when you follow this pattern to truly feel invisible to the world and the people around you.
When a student comes out to Josie in a class writing assignment, Josie is faced with conflicts that force a decision between continuing to appease those around her or using her voice and her identity to help support those looking up to her.
I wasn’t anticipating a slight mystery element to the plot so that was an unexpected and pleasant twist in my opinion. It gave the story another driving element, which I think lended well to the overall tension and build up to the climactic conflict of the novel.
In regards to the content within the plot:
As the novel progresses through these conflicts, it follows a multi-timeline structure. Personally, I am not typically a fan of moving timelines within stories because I easily lose track of the chain of events. However, I think the usage in this instance was so pivotal to show the vulnerability that makes Josie’s character so lovable and relatable. I felt that the split timeline showed that some vulnerabilities are intrinsically a part of who we are and though we adapt to them through time they are always a part of us, and so formative to our beings. Following Josie through each phase of her life allowed this novel to become not only a coming of age story, but also a “coming of adult” story. It showcases the awkwardness of adolescence and the journey of self discovery of young adulthood that we all face, regardless of sexuality.
There are several *trigger warnings* to consider when picking up Actually Invisible, including infertility, body dysmorphia and binge eating, anxiety, homophobia, spousal disagreements, bullying and harassment, stalking, school safety and weapons, grief and addiction. While some readers may find this many separate topics to be an overload, I personally felt that it amplified the dimensionality of Josie’s character. None of us are one dimensional, dealing with only one struggle at a time. For me, this made Josie’s character resonate ten-fold, and I truly feel that she will do so with many other readers as well. Whether you find familiarity in one or multiple of the struggles that Josie is juggling, there is a vein of vulnerability for everyone to relate to here.
In regards to the structure of the novel:
Actually Invisible jumps directly into the conflict and plot of the novel. It does so gracefully – you do not feel like you are missing any pertinent information but you also don’t feel as though you have to wade through endless chapters of exposition to be invested in the characters and the story. There are multiple conflicts, both personally and professionally, that are embedded within each timeline. Though I am not typically a fan of jumping timelines, I felt like the usage in this story – in combination with short, digestible chapters – really drove the pacing of the plotline and had me itching to see what would happen next in each timeline.
This novel was written by an English teacher, and you can tell – in the best way! Often when you pick up a novel by a debut author it is with a healthy dose of skepticism. I am not an aggressively heavy critique when it comes to writing quality, but in turn I believe that quality writing can really elevate the reading experience. This is a perfect example of that experience. If I absolutely HAD to nitpick anything about the novel, it would be that some of the dialogue could’ve been a touch more colloquial. However, I would MUCH prefer to read a novel with slightly more formal dialogue and higher quality prose in between than to read one with highly conversational dialogue and painfully conversational and casual exposition.
My overall takeaways:
I think this novel is a must read for anyone of any age. The message that Elisa Greb conveys is one of acceptance, and one that shows how deeply the effects of that acceptance (or lack thereof) can radiate within a person. I think that reading Josie’s story is the epitome of “walking in someone else’s shoes.” The insight Greb provides into the heart and soul of Josie’s situation is POWERFUL. Knowledge is powerful. Understanding is powerful. Compassion is powerful. Knowledge leads to understanding, understanding leads to compassion. Reading this story can and will open those vitally important doors for anyone.
April 5, 2024
4 stars. This was emotionally draining for me. It hits on a lot of tough real life issues for gay people and it was just so heavy. It was well written, well paced, and I did really like the main character Josie. She was likable and easy to root for even though I didn’t understand her relationship with her wife Cam. Cam was self centered and selfish. I couldn’t stand her. I also didn’t like the timeline switching. It added nothing to the plot in my opinion and took me out of the story every single time. Other than those nitpicks this was still really good. Not a favorite or anything but I would recommend it. The plot kept me interested and I liked how everything wrapped up in the end. A pretty good debut.
April 7, 2024
3.5 Stars
Pros
The main character was fleshed out. It’s hard not to think of her as real.
The conflicts were realistic, thought-provoking and easy to identify with.
In general, these types of stories, stripped of any glamour and pomp scares me because they tend crush my heart the most. It’s nice to have a lighthearted hyperrealistic sort of writing this time around.
Cons:
The partner was a source of bitterness for me. She wasn’t supportive in some ways and that irked me.
Pros
The main character was fleshed out. It’s hard not to think of her as real.
The conflicts were realistic, thought-provoking and easy to identify with.
In general, these types of stories, stripped of any glamour and pomp scares me because they tend crush my heart the most. It’s nice to have a lighthearted hyperrealistic sort of writing this time around.
Cons:
The partner was a source of bitterness for me. She wasn’t supportive in some ways and that irked me.
May 31, 2024
I adored this 🥹 the chapters were so fast paced and the whole book had a really important message. I felt myself forgetting it was a book at times because of how realistic the situation in the book felt. I also loved the poems throughout
thank you to elisa for providing me with a copy of this book, I really enjoyed it
thank you to elisa for providing me with a copy of this book, I really enjoyed it
May 13, 2024
I am truly blown away by the words spoken in this book. It is heartwarming, gut wrenching, uncomfortable.. all because of the way queer people are treated. Actually Invisible is a great read for anybody who doesn’t understand what LGBT+ people go through on the daily. This shines a light on things people take for granted in their everyday lives. Something as simple as talking about your spouse, kids, your interests. Please give this book a read, it will alter your brain and hopefully convince you and anyone else to just treat everybody with kindness 🩵
March 10, 2024
Every now and then you come across a book that just knocks your socks off. Actually Invisible by Elisa Greb did that for me. The writing is crisp and clean, flowing neatly across the page. Greb uses imagery, symbolism and metaphor with a confidence that leaves appreciative readers slightly in awe. The narrative is compelling and impactful, containing a story structure that’s built upon solid ground. In addition to that, it’s eloquently threaded with a guiding theme that’s cohesive and purposeful. Each scene is plotted and planned with sure footed intent, engaging readers and drawing them in.
I imagine that this story wasn’t an easy one to write. There are time jumps and multiple sub-plots featuring several important players, yet Greb navigates the landscape with the grace of a polished writer. Using theme to strengthen the storytelling, she ties it together in a clear and understandable manner. It’s beautifully done, and it makes the English teacher in me smile.
Final remarks…
When I finished Actually Invisible, I had to know more about Elisa Greb. I was amazed to learn that this is her debut novel. It’s impressive storytelling, and I’d encourage anyone that enjoys reading emotionally honest fiction to shove it into their TBR pile ASAP. Josie’s journey is heartfelt and convincing, scripted with a sincere passion that truly resonates. She is a genuine unsung hero trying to live an authentic life, committing herself fully to those she values most. This author has definitely pinged my radar, and I look forward to her next novel.
Strengths…
Well-written
Compelling
Heartfelt
Meaningful
Tender
I imagine that this story wasn’t an easy one to write. There are time jumps and multiple sub-plots featuring several important players, yet Greb navigates the landscape with the grace of a polished writer. Using theme to strengthen the storytelling, she ties it together in a clear and understandable manner. It’s beautifully done, and it makes the English teacher in me smile.
Final remarks…
When I finished Actually Invisible, I had to know more about Elisa Greb. I was amazed to learn that this is her debut novel. It’s impressive storytelling, and I’d encourage anyone that enjoys reading emotionally honest fiction to shove it into their TBR pile ASAP. Josie’s journey is heartfelt and convincing, scripted with a sincere passion that truly resonates. She is a genuine unsung hero trying to live an authentic life, committing herself fully to those she values most. This author has definitely pinged my radar, and I look forward to her next novel.
Strengths…
Well-written
Compelling
Heartfelt
Meaningful
Tender
March 4, 2024
I will be thinking about Josie for a very long time. She is truly unlike any other character I’ve ever read.
And this story is unlike any other story I’ve read. As a teacher, I loved the education aspect of it. Teaching is HARD, and I felt like this book captured the many challenges teachers face trying to juggle their work and their personal lives. As a woman, I shared in Josie’s desire for visibility. As a human, I loved the raw emotion and can’t think of a more timely story in response to the over abundance of hatred and nastiness in our world today.
I must also commend the author for her brilliant poetry that is woven into the story.
If you want a book that’s going to make you laugh, cry, and think, this is the one.
And this story is unlike any other story I’ve read. As a teacher, I loved the education aspect of it. Teaching is HARD, and I felt like this book captured the many challenges teachers face trying to juggle their work and their personal lives. As a woman, I shared in Josie’s desire for visibility. As a human, I loved the raw emotion and can’t think of a more timely story in response to the over abundance of hatred and nastiness in our world today.
I must also commend the author for her brilliant poetry that is woven into the story.
If you want a book that’s going to make you laugh, cry, and think, this is the one.
February 27, 2026
What a fantastic debut novel! As a parent of teens, this one really made me think. I can’t wait to read more by Greb. The slam poetry was an unexpected delight!
June 5, 2024
This is an emotionally riveting book. I felt a range of emotions from anger, sadness, vulnerability, and happiness while reading the story. This book deals with sensitive topics that many people live with and experience everyday. It is navigated in a beautiful way that even if you’ve never experienced it you feel like you have. This is a book everyone should take the time to read and experience.
June 5, 2024
I can’t think of a single negative thing to say about this book. What an incredible story. This story made me cry, it had me on the edge of my seat at times waiting to know what would happen. You need to read this!
March 12, 2024
What an absolutely beautiful and wonderfully written book this was.
The storyline is thoroughly thought out, and I absolutely loved it. My heart truly goes out to Josie, I wanted everything to go right for her, but there was always one thing after another that wasn't working for her, but she is an absolute inspiration.
I liked all the characters in the book, Dana was such a great friend and colleague to Josie and always had her back. The storyline is easy to follow, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I enjoyed the flashbacks to Josies past, too. I like the growth it shows of Josie and her relationships with her family and Cam.
The main thing I liked about this book, was the power of people banding together, its shows that when we do, we can do anything and I loved that when the students banded together to create the GSA for the school and Josie made it happen it brought unity to the school as a whole.
The connection between Josie and Cam seemed on tenterhooks at first, and I was rooting for them throughout the book. I was glad that it all worked out in the end.
I absolutely recommend this book! I couldn't put it down. This book comes out April 1st, and is am available for pre-order now, so go and buy it now, you will not regret it!
The storyline is thoroughly thought out, and I absolutely loved it. My heart truly goes out to Josie, I wanted everything to go right for her, but there was always one thing after another that wasn't working for her, but she is an absolute inspiration.
I liked all the characters in the book, Dana was such a great friend and colleague to Josie and always had her back. The storyline is easy to follow, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I enjoyed the flashbacks to Josies past, too. I like the growth it shows of Josie and her relationships with her family and Cam.
The main thing I liked about this book, was the power of people banding together, its shows that when we do, we can do anything and I loved that when the students banded together to create the GSA for the school and Josie made it happen it brought unity to the school as a whole.
The connection between Josie and Cam seemed on tenterhooks at first, and I was rooting for them throughout the book. I was glad that it all worked out in the end.
I absolutely recommend this book! I couldn't put it down. This book comes out April 1st, and is am available for pre-order now, so go and buy it now, you will not regret it!
April 3, 2024
This is such a special book.
Living in Florida, the story feels like it could have been happening in my local school district (which is sad, but unfortunately true). I felt like I was listening to a friend tell her story, it was so intimate and personal, I couldn't help but be completely invested in the main character's experience.
While the themes were heavy at times, it was still easy to read because of how the author approached the format of the story. We had some flashbacks between chapters that were simple to follow and not at all confusing, which can be challenging for me as a reader.
I received this ebook as an ARC but will be purchasing a physical copy once it is release on April 1st, 2024 to add to my shelves. I really hope the author decides to write a second book to continue the story!
Living in Florida, the story feels like it could have been happening in my local school district (which is sad, but unfortunately true). I felt like I was listening to a friend tell her story, it was so intimate and personal, I couldn't help but be completely invested in the main character's experience.
While the themes were heavy at times, it was still easy to read because of how the author approached the format of the story. We had some flashbacks between chapters that were simple to follow and not at all confusing, which can be challenging for me as a reader.
I received this ebook as an ARC but will be purchasing a physical copy once it is release on April 1st, 2024 to add to my shelves. I really hope the author decides to write a second book to continue the story!
March 31, 2024
I want to start by saying that I wished I could have had a teacher like Josie when I was a closeted teenager who basically hated herself.
I loved everything about this book. I was a bit scared when I saw that there were multiple timelines but the author made it really easy for me to not get lost (trust me, I get lost easily).
Josie's character is whole and I feel like it's a really hard thing to achieve (in my opinion).
I will definitely read it multiple times, thank you for this incredible story.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I loved everything about this book. I was a bit scared when I saw that there were multiple timelines but the author made it really easy for me to not get lost (trust me, I get lost easily).
Josie's character is whole and I feel like it's a really hard thing to achieve (in my opinion).
I will definitely read it multiple times, thank you for this incredible story.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 3, 2024
Elisa Greb's novel "Actually Invisible" is an emotional story that follows the life of Josie, a primary school teacher. While Josie is proud of her identity and the family she and her wife have built together, she is forced to keep these parts of her life a secret because of her community and her job. The author's words will particularly resonate with anyone who has ever felt like a people pleaser.
A key moment in the novel is when a student comes out to Josie in a a class writing assignment. This event forces Josie to confront her own conflicts – to continue to please those around her, or to use her own voice and identity to support those who look up to her.
Although I tried to like the main character's wife, throughout the story I felt that she didn't support Josie enough. She often thinks only of herself, ignoring the impact her selfishness has on the other woman's life. This dynamic creates tension in their relationship, which adds to Josie's internal conflicts.
The novel progresses through several timelines that help readers get to know Josie better and show the vulnerability that makes her character so likeable and relatable. Through the different stages of Josie's life, she demonstrates the awkwardness of adolescence as well as the journey of self-discovery in young adulthood that we all may be familiar with, regardless of our sexuality. Elisa Greb introduces the reader to the story gracefully, as although she immediately jumps into the middle of the conflict, we do not feel like we are missing any essential information.
"Actually Invisible" includes a number of trigger warnings such as infertility, body dysmorphia and binge eating, anxiety, homophobia, spousal conflicts, bullying and harassment, school safety and weapons, and grief and addiction. While some readers may find this overwhelming with so many separate themes, I personally felt that it added to the complexity of Josie's character. None of us are one-dimensional, and we all struggle with multiple problems at once.
Elisa Greb's message is about acceptance, and shows how deeply the lack of it can affect a person. The insight that the author gives into the depth of Josie's situation is powerful and memorable. Reading this story can give us the feeling that we are not alone in our problems and struggles. "Actually Invisible" is a touching and powerful read that inspires us all to understand and support each other better, no matter what challenges we face.
I received a free copy of "Actually Invisible" by Elisa Greb via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A key moment in the novel is when a student comes out to Josie in a a class writing assignment. This event forces Josie to confront her own conflicts – to continue to please those around her, or to use her own voice and identity to support those who look up to her.
Although I tried to like the main character's wife, throughout the story I felt that she didn't support Josie enough. She often thinks only of herself, ignoring the impact her selfishness has on the other woman's life. This dynamic creates tension in their relationship, which adds to Josie's internal conflicts.
The novel progresses through several timelines that help readers get to know Josie better and show the vulnerability that makes her character so likeable and relatable. Through the different stages of Josie's life, she demonstrates the awkwardness of adolescence as well as the journey of self-discovery in young adulthood that we all may be familiar with, regardless of our sexuality. Elisa Greb introduces the reader to the story gracefully, as although she immediately jumps into the middle of the conflict, we do not feel like we are missing any essential information.
"Actually Invisible" includes a number of trigger warnings such as infertility, body dysmorphia and binge eating, anxiety, homophobia, spousal conflicts, bullying and harassment, school safety and weapons, and grief and addiction. While some readers may find this overwhelming with so many separate themes, I personally felt that it added to the complexity of Josie's character. None of us are one-dimensional, and we all struggle with multiple problems at once.
Elisa Greb's message is about acceptance, and shows how deeply the lack of it can affect a person. The insight that the author gives into the depth of Josie's situation is powerful and memorable. Reading this story can give us the feeling that we are not alone in our problems and struggles. "Actually Invisible" is a touching and powerful read that inspires us all to understand and support each other better, no matter what challenges we face.
I received a free copy of "Actually Invisible" by Elisa Greb via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 12, 2024
An incredibly unique, heartfelt and thought provoking 5 star read, Actually Invisible is a book that I would recommend to absolutely everyone.
This story follows Josie through her life as a daughter, wife, mom, teacher and lesbian. As a 10th grade English teacher in a very conservative public school, she works hard to share her love for words and writing with her students. She is accepting and quietly proud of who she is and who she loves, but continuously makes herself smaller and steps back into the closet to make those around her feel more comfortable.
Avoiding speaking about her family and always playing the “pronoun game” in regard to her personal life has worked for her so far. Until one of her students comes out to her in an assignment. Josie struggles with how to best support this student while still remaining invisible herself.
When word gets out about the essay, a storm of outlandish accusations and appalling (and all too realistic) bigotry ensues. She finds herself being threatened, bullied and accused by students, parents and administrators alike.
Readers will find Josie’s story of navigating this very real situation, while trying not to lose herself, inspiring. This emotional read will have you cheering for Josie and her students, asking yourself how you would handle this situation, and hopefully thinking about how you can enact change and encourage acceptance in the world around you.
This story follows Josie through her life as a daughter, wife, mom, teacher and lesbian. As a 10th grade English teacher in a very conservative public school, she works hard to share her love for words and writing with her students. She is accepting and quietly proud of who she is and who she loves, but continuously makes herself smaller and steps back into the closet to make those around her feel more comfortable.
Avoiding speaking about her family and always playing the “pronoun game” in regard to her personal life has worked for her so far. Until one of her students comes out to her in an assignment. Josie struggles with how to best support this student while still remaining invisible herself.
When word gets out about the essay, a storm of outlandish accusations and appalling (and all too realistic) bigotry ensues. She finds herself being threatened, bullied and accused by students, parents and administrators alike.
Readers will find Josie’s story of navigating this very real situation, while trying not to lose herself, inspiring. This emotional read will have you cheering for Josie and her students, asking yourself how you would handle this situation, and hopefully thinking about how you can enact change and encourage acceptance in the world around you.
June 24, 2024
Elisa Greb did a fantastic job with this book. I know there is a nod to her real life but fictionalized. The way the story is set up it felt so intensely personal. Like I was reading a diary. The back and forth in time was so perfect and paints a perfect picture of humanity. Life is complicated and none of us are ever just one thing. However, being allowed to be ALL of who we truly are is what is most important. I think this book will stay with me for a while.
March 17, 2024
I recently finished reading a book, and it was quite a roller coaster ride. The book was filled with a lot of emotions and time jumps, which made it a bit hard to follow at first. However, once I got into it, I found it difficult to put down. The book had a small mystery plotline, which kept me engaged. However, I couldn't quite connect with the characters, Josie and Cam. I wondered why they were together because Cam seemed controlling and uncaring towards Josie.
March 18, 2024
Josie has known for sure since she was fourteen that she was gay, and she had an idea even before that. She was secure in her sexuality, and after coming out to them, her parents and her sister supported her.
When she was eighteen she met Cam, a volunteer at the local voting station. They dated in secret for a number of years, because Cam couldn’t come out to her parents. The situation effectively pushed Josie back into the closet for a time - one time at Cam’s parents’ house quite literally into the closet!
Both Cam and Josie train as teachers, Josie teaching high-school English, Cam teaching kindergartens. Later they are married, and then have a lovely daughter Liesel.
This is an unusual story, effectively being three stories in one, with three interlocking time lines. It is written in first person from the view of Josie. We have early Josie, as a high-schooler, having crushes, being embarrassed, but having the bravery to be out. We have the romance between Josie and Cam, how they met, their time together, the obligatory breakup and then getting back together.
The most important story here however, is the relatively modern one, of how Josie is an excellent teacher, loved by her pupils, but of necessity semi-closeted because of the very conservative beliefs of some parents of her pupils. This is the story of how Josie makes her mark, how she helps her LGBTQ students in an unfriendly atmosphere, she risks her own safety and job to be true to herself and to support her pupils. All of her previous life experiences seem to lead toward this.
This is a very well written story from a new author - exceptional for a first book. The character building is very good, we can feel Josie’s internal struggles, her insecurities with her weight, her body, her family, but not once as an adult does she seem to be insecure about her sexuality.
The way this is written is unusual for something in this genre. The three timelines weave in and out of one another, transporting us back and forward in time, showing how Josie changes over time. This is very well planned, as we see scenes from Josie and Cam’s earlier life which have a direct impact on the following scenes. At first I found this confusing and frustrating, having to keep jumping back to the beginning of that or the preceding chapter to see where in the timeline we are. However this is really necessary for the book to work, otherwise we would have a linear timeline, making a very long drawn out and confusing story. There are also many linking ideas between Josie’s earlier life and her current one, such as the ongoing robin theme, and if this were linear we would miss this linking. The timeline jumping keeps the reader on their toes, stops them getting lost in complacency; but it also makes the story difficult to follow, to mentally visualise. This is like reading Shakespeare in its original Early Modern English - difficult to follow at first, but much easier once you get used to the style and rhythm. In Josie’s poem towards the end, I guess she references this jumping when she says “I am double the age of my students, but a time traveler in any moment…”
I am glad I got to read this book. It wouldn’t have been one I would have chosen to read, finding angst difficult to deal with, but I was happy that I enjoyed it so much. It is one I will remember for a long time, and would recommend it to anybody.
When she was eighteen she met Cam, a volunteer at the local voting station. They dated in secret for a number of years, because Cam couldn’t come out to her parents. The situation effectively pushed Josie back into the closet for a time - one time at Cam’s parents’ house quite literally into the closet!
Both Cam and Josie train as teachers, Josie teaching high-school English, Cam teaching kindergartens. Later they are married, and then have a lovely daughter Liesel.
This is an unusual story, effectively being three stories in one, with three interlocking time lines. It is written in first person from the view of Josie. We have early Josie, as a high-schooler, having crushes, being embarrassed, but having the bravery to be out. We have the romance between Josie and Cam, how they met, their time together, the obligatory breakup and then getting back together.
The most important story here however, is the relatively modern one, of how Josie is an excellent teacher, loved by her pupils, but of necessity semi-closeted because of the very conservative beliefs of some parents of her pupils. This is the story of how Josie makes her mark, how she helps her LGBTQ students in an unfriendly atmosphere, she risks her own safety and job to be true to herself and to support her pupils. All of her previous life experiences seem to lead toward this.
This is a very well written story from a new author - exceptional for a first book. The character building is very good, we can feel Josie’s internal struggles, her insecurities with her weight, her body, her family, but not once as an adult does she seem to be insecure about her sexuality.
The way this is written is unusual for something in this genre. The three timelines weave in and out of one another, transporting us back and forward in time, showing how Josie changes over time. This is very well planned, as we see scenes from Josie and Cam’s earlier life which have a direct impact on the following scenes. At first I found this confusing and frustrating, having to keep jumping back to the beginning of that or the preceding chapter to see where in the timeline we are. However this is really necessary for the book to work, otherwise we would have a linear timeline, making a very long drawn out and confusing story. There are also many linking ideas between Josie’s earlier life and her current one, such as the ongoing robin theme, and if this were linear we would miss this linking. The timeline jumping keeps the reader on their toes, stops them getting lost in complacency; but it also makes the story difficult to follow, to mentally visualise. This is like reading Shakespeare in its original Early Modern English - difficult to follow at first, but much easier once you get used to the style and rhythm. In Josie’s poem towards the end, I guess she references this jumping when she says “I am double the age of my students, but a time traveler in any moment…”
I am glad I got to read this book. It wouldn’t have been one I would have chosen to read, finding angst difficult to deal with, but I was happy that I enjoyed it so much. It is one I will remember for a long time, and would recommend it to anybody.
May 5, 2024
I thought I knew, but it turns out I know nothing of what it’s like to be a gay person. As supportive and adjacent as I believe myself to be, I’m also completely ignorant about these lives and experiences. This book changed me as a human. Humbled me. It was cathartic to feel all the feelings about love, rejection, fear, death, intimidation, and triumph. My cheeks are still wet with the tears I cried at the end of this book. Cried might be a tad weak…I BAWLED!! Not to exaggerate, but this might be the best novel I’ve read in YEARS. Damn it’s so good.
April 10, 2024
This book was so well written. Elisa wrote the time jumps between years so well. It all flowed and didn’t have that jumping of thoughts or unnecessary fluff. The character development of Josie, Cam and even Katie was fun to read. The story itself is impactful and one of those stories that opens your eyes of real life situations, that those who don’t identify as LGBTQA+ of even a teacher, can understand.
This book was made even more special because I have had the chance to get to know Elisa as a person and now as an author.
Im sorry Elisa for all my grammatically incorrect sentences. Maybe if I had had a english teacher like you in high school I would have actually liked it.
This book was made even more special because I have had the chance to get to know Elisa as a person and now as an author.
Im sorry Elisa for all my grammatically incorrect sentences. Maybe if I had had a english teacher like you in high school I would have actually liked it.
April 16, 2024
I would recommend this book to absolutely anyone at any age. This book jumps back and forth between the obstacles and present day of a woman who came out at the age of 14. It shows in detail what some people have to deal with while just trying to be their truest, most authebtic self. Unfortunately, we still have bigotry in society, but it's books like this one that will help make a difference. It is an absolutely beautiful read.
February 28, 2024
Josie is a teacher who has hidden herself away so much that it has become second nature to her. She is put in an uncomfortable spot when a student comes out to her in an essay and she becomes the center of attention at her school.
This was a good read but not quite hitting the mark for greatness for me. Firstly, I really liked this MC, she was very endearing and I was able to identify with her in many ways. She was very well developed and felt like a real person, not just a character. Her relationship with her daughter was great and I loved the little bits that Leisel added to this story. Character development on the whole made most of the characters pop to life in a way that is hard to find in many other books. I did also like the plot line with Kate and the ramifications of the essay, this kept me invested in the story and pushed me to find out what happens in the end.
I did have some issues though, which did make it a bit slow to get through and in some cases the story seems a bit unrealistic. I'd say about half of the book is flashbacks of Josie's life, which is helpful in getting to know her, but also took away from the main plot line. Many of the flash backs don't seem to add much to the story though some do help show why Josie is so used to blending into the background. I feel that there are just a few too many of these flashbacks. Each of the time periods also highlights some of the many terrible things that have happened to Josie through her life. There are so many themes and side plots here that it became a bit confusing and the timelines seemed to blur a bit. I don't want to give away too much but we have a bit of everything including school violence, a stalker, major homophobia and homophobic language, eating disorders, alcoholism, unsupportive spouses and general anxiety and depression. Much like the flashbacks, the side plots got to be too much and just distracted from the main story line. As a result I really was not a fan of Josie's wife and made me hope for a bit of a different outcome for them.
Despite some of the issues this was a solid first book and I hope to see more from this author in the future. I did enjoy the main story and the characters really came off the page here so I am looking forward to a second.
This was a good read but not quite hitting the mark for greatness for me. Firstly, I really liked this MC, she was very endearing and I was able to identify with her in many ways. She was very well developed and felt like a real person, not just a character. Her relationship with her daughter was great and I loved the little bits that Leisel added to this story. Character development on the whole made most of the characters pop to life in a way that is hard to find in many other books. I did also like the plot line with Kate and the ramifications of the essay, this kept me invested in the story and pushed me to find out what happens in the end.
I did have some issues though, which did make it a bit slow to get through and in some cases the story seems a bit unrealistic. I'd say about half of the book is flashbacks of Josie's life, which is helpful in getting to know her, but also took away from the main plot line. Many of the flash backs don't seem to add much to the story though some do help show why Josie is so used to blending into the background. I feel that there are just a few too many of these flashbacks. Each of the time periods also highlights some of the many terrible things that have happened to Josie through her life. There are so many themes and side plots here that it became a bit confusing and the timelines seemed to blur a bit. I don't want to give away too much but we have a bit of everything including school violence, a stalker, major homophobia and homophobic language, eating disorders, alcoholism, unsupportive spouses and general anxiety and depression. Much like the flashbacks, the side plots got to be too much and just distracted from the main story line. As a result I really was not a fan of Josie's wife and made me hope for a bit of a different outcome for them.
Despite some of the issues this was a solid first book and I hope to see more from this author in the future. I did enjoy the main story and the characters really came off the page here so I am looking forward to a second.
March 27, 2024
This is SUCH a nicely written read, would recommend one more read-through from the editors for formatting errors (or might have just been the PDF). Really refreshing to have main character queers who were already in a relationship, and showed it with just as much ups and downs as a hetero relationship - like lack of communication skills!! (Good thing they cleared that up, Cam was a little annoying with constantly putting down Josie's fears and also the whole "you could've done more to avoid x" was not a shining example of spousal support). Covered a lot of big, timely topics rather well, and offers a great window into high school teaching. Good job!
My biggest complaint?? Whoever made the cover clearly didn't read the book; that, or the info they were given to work with wasn't clear enough - Josie is fat!! Let her be fat on the cover!! Be more respectful to her representation!! (Yes, I'm aware judging a book by its cover isn't the best method, HOWEVER, if the cover is wildly inaccurate to the contents, I WILL judge on that).
Thank you to BookSirens for the free advance review copy!
My biggest complaint?? Whoever made the cover clearly didn't read the book; that, or the info they were given to work with wasn't clear enough - Josie is fat!! Let her be fat on the cover!! Be more respectful to her representation!! (Yes, I'm aware judging a book by its cover isn't the best method, HOWEVER, if the cover is wildly inaccurate to the contents, I WILL judge on that).
Thank you to BookSirens for the free advance review copy!
April 30, 2024
This is the first book written by Elisa Greb that I have read and I really enjoyed it.
The main character, Josie, was fleshed out and truly felt as though she was real. My heart went out to her, I was rooting for her the whole time. She really is an inspiring character. Her friend, Dana, was a great character too. It was nice to see her always having Josie’s back. I enjoyed seeing flashbacks to Josie's past within the book.
The book itself is well-written and well-paced. The way Greb brought in real-life issues for lgbt people was a great touch. It added a depth to the book which pulled me deeper into it.
I wasn't extremely fond of her wife, Cam. I found Cam was rather self-centred and wasn't supportive of Josie in ways that didn't sit great with me but Cam did grow on me a little by the end of the book.
I really enjoyed the book throughout and I liked watching the growth within the characters. I really would recommend giving this book a read. I will definitely be reading more from Greb.
The main character, Josie, was fleshed out and truly felt as though she was real. My heart went out to her, I was rooting for her the whole time. She really is an inspiring character. Her friend, Dana, was a great character too. It was nice to see her always having Josie’s back. I enjoyed seeing flashbacks to Josie's past within the book.
The book itself is well-written and well-paced. The way Greb brought in real-life issues for lgbt people was a great touch. It added a depth to the book which pulled me deeper into it.
I wasn't extremely fond of her wife, Cam. I found Cam was rather self-centred and wasn't supportive of Josie in ways that didn't sit great with me but Cam did grow on me a little by the end of the book.
I really enjoyed the book throughout and I liked watching the growth within the characters. I really would recommend giving this book a read. I will definitely be reading more from Greb.
March 19, 2024
Actually invisible by Elisa Greb is not a lighthearted novel but it is both important and powerful.
It tells story of a lesbian teacher and her wife during the time when Josephine a high school teacher is accused of gay indoctrination of her students.
The novel shifts between Josephine’s relationships with her divorced parents, the development of her relationship with her wife Cam, the difficulties Cam had coming out to her family and both hostile and supportive school community members.
The novel does detail the fears held by many gay and lesbian teachers about the hostility they face, the fear of losing their jobs and the fear of becoming less effective as teachers as a result.
This story has a powerful and positive ending but also allows the reader to ponder other possible outcomes.
I thought the novel carefully examined many issues of concern with a positive resolution involving snap poetry no less. A worthwhile read.
It tells story of a lesbian teacher and her wife during the time when Josephine a high school teacher is accused of gay indoctrination of her students.
The novel shifts between Josephine’s relationships with her divorced parents, the development of her relationship with her wife Cam, the difficulties Cam had coming out to her family and both hostile and supportive school community members.
The novel does detail the fears held by many gay and lesbian teachers about the hostility they face, the fear of losing their jobs and the fear of becoming less effective as teachers as a result.
This story has a powerful and positive ending but also allows the reader to ponder other possible outcomes.
I thought the novel carefully examined many issues of concern with a positive resolution involving snap poetry no less. A worthwhile read.
March 20, 2024
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily and without expectation of any rating.
This is a beautiful debut novel. For a brief moment, living in a fairly liberal California bubble, I found some of the pieces of blatant homophobia in today's world harder to believe. Only in that it felt like how life was for us "elder millennials" 15-20 years ago. But then I came back to reality and remembered life isn't the same outside this bubble.
The main character feels extremely relatable and real. The stress and love of teaching, and parenting, and coming out, and staying in the closet, and family, and all of the messy in betweens. I felt angry for her when no one was there for her, excited when she stood up for herself, love when she says her truth.
I'm looking forward to more books from this author!
This is a beautiful debut novel. For a brief moment, living in a fairly liberal California bubble, I found some of the pieces of blatant homophobia in today's world harder to believe. Only in that it felt like how life was for us "elder millennials" 15-20 years ago. But then I came back to reality and remembered life isn't the same outside this bubble.
The main character feels extremely relatable and real. The stress and love of teaching, and parenting, and coming out, and staying in the closet, and family, and all of the messy in betweens. I felt angry for her when no one was there for her, excited when she stood up for herself, love when she says her truth.
I'm looking forward to more books from this author!
July 20, 2024
Could NOT put this book down till it was done!
Elisa Greb has written a beautiful book with so much tension in it that, if I hadn’t read it on my kindle, I would have skipped to the last page (as I have been known to do). The main character is a 10th grade English teacher at a public school. She also happens to be married to another woman. So much of her life is invisible to the world around her, and the pain of that invisibility seeps through each page. When she is outed and accused of inappropriate behavior, it is as though she is flashing back to all that has brought her to this place, and the structure of the novel takes us along with her. Greb is clearly an incredible poet as well as a novelist, and the novel itself sings. You won’t want to miss this book!
**Posted through my husband’s account. This is Lynda Hawkins
Elisa Greb has written a beautiful book with so much tension in it that, if I hadn’t read it on my kindle, I would have skipped to the last page (as I have been known to do). The main character is a 10th grade English teacher at a public school. She also happens to be married to another woman. So much of her life is invisible to the world around her, and the pain of that invisibility seeps through each page. When she is outed and accused of inappropriate behavior, it is as though she is flashing back to all that has brought her to this place, and the structure of the novel takes us along with her. Greb is clearly an incredible poet as well as a novelist, and the novel itself sings. You won’t want to miss this book!
**Posted through my husband’s account. This is Lynda Hawkins
August 2, 2024
As a former teacher this book was relatable and eye opening. But the beauty in this story is how the LGBTQ community is spotlighted from the perspective of a teacher. Yes, it's a fictional story but a reality that so many teachers face with not being comfortable to show who they are within a school setting. And that's sad, which is why so many people NEED to read this book. Not only was it beautifully written but the message is so profound and still with me even though I finished this book a few weeks ago. I found this author on Tik Tok and I'm so glad I read this book to not only support another indie, but to just find a deeper level of empathy and openness to all the beautifully different and wonderful people that exist in the world. Please, please, please, give this book a chance. You will not regret it. Thank you Elisa for writing such a beautiful book!
June 13, 2025
I genuinely believe it's one that everyone needs to read. It opens your eyes to the daily struggles that are often overlooked or dismissed. There’s absolutely no reason we can’t treat one another with respect, regardless of beliefs or differences. If we all showed a little more compassion, the world would be a better place.
The story is heartbreaking in all the right ways. The main character goes through so much unnecessary pain, and it truly gutted me. I deeply connected with the portrayal of fertility struggles! Even though my journey is different, the raw emotion was spot on. The author didn't hold back, and I appreciated that so much. It was real, it was honest, and it brought important conversations to the table that need to be had. 📚 #booktok #bookstagram #books #lgbtq #lgbt🌈 #womensupportingwomen #womenempowerment #teachersoftiktok #lgbtbooks
The story is heartbreaking in all the right ways. The main character goes through so much unnecessary pain, and it truly gutted me. I deeply connected with the portrayal of fertility struggles! Even though my journey is different, the raw emotion was spot on. The author didn't hold back, and I appreciated that so much. It was real, it was honest, and it brought important conversations to the table that need to be had. 📚 #booktok #bookstagram #books #lgbtq #lgbt🌈 #womensupportingwomen #womenempowerment #teachersoftiktok #lgbtbooks
March 4, 2024
***I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.***
I am not sure I have read something that I have found more relatable in years. Jo never denies her life but in the same breath has not lived her life fully out. Being a teacher or anyone who works with youth is like walking a tight rope in our current culture. When heterosexuality is the norm, and the picture of family is a Mom and a Dad. Our queer community not only gets left behind but often vilified. Jo experiences exactly this when she is accused of grooming one of her high school students.
This book will not only trigger the feels, but cause your brain to start working on over drive. Great read, and I can not wait to get my hands on a physical copy.
I am not sure I have read something that I have found more relatable in years. Jo never denies her life but in the same breath has not lived her life fully out. Being a teacher or anyone who works with youth is like walking a tight rope in our current culture. When heterosexuality is the norm, and the picture of family is a Mom and a Dad. Our queer community not only gets left behind but often vilified. Jo experiences exactly this when she is accused of grooming one of her high school students.
This book will not only trigger the feels, but cause your brain to start working on over drive. Great read, and I can not wait to get my hands on a physical copy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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