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The Big Ask
Alfie Parker has bagged the hottest date to prom … hasn’t he? Bestselling LGBTQ+ writer Simon James Green makes his Barrington Stoke debut with a life-affirming teen romance.
Harvey is popular, cool, plays football and has been in a relationship with his girlfriend Summer for as long as anyone can remember. Alfie is not popular, not cool, has a sick note so he doesn’t have to play any sport, and has been in a relationship with his Xbox since forever. So when Summer dramatically dumps Harvey just a few days before the school prom, no one is expecting Alfie to ask Harvey to be his date. Least of all Alfie. But sometimes amazing things can happen when you take a chance …
Harvey is popular, cool, plays football and has been in a relationship with his girlfriend Summer for as long as anyone can remember. Alfie is not popular, not cool, has a sick note so he doesn’t have to play any sport, and has been in a relationship with his Xbox since forever. So when Summer dramatically dumps Harvey just a few days before the school prom, no one is expecting Alfie to ask Harvey to be his date. Least of all Alfie. But sometimes amazing things can happen when you take a chance …
128 pages, Paperback
Published June 6, 2024
4 people are currently reading
288 people want to read
About the author
Simon James Green
22 books772 followersSimon James Green grew up in a small town in Lincolnshire that definitely wasn’t the inspiration for Little Fobbing – so no-one from there can be mad with him, OK? He enjoyed a classic British education of assorted humiliations and barbaric PE lessons before reading Law at Queens’ College, Cambridge, where he further embarrassed himself by accidentally joining the rowing team despite having no upper body strength and not being able swim. When it turned out that being a lawyer was nothing like how it looks in Suits or The Good Wife, and buoyed by the success of his late night comedy show that involved an inflatable sheep, he travelled to London to pursue a glamorous career in show business. Within weeks he was working in a call centre, had been mugged, and had racked up thousands of pounds worth of debt. Finding strength and inspiration in the lyrics of "Tubthumping" by Chumbawumba, he eventually ended up working on a range of West End shows and UK tours, co-wrote a feature-length rom-com for the BBC and directed Hollyoaks for C4 / Lime Pictures. After trying really, really hard, he also managed to write Noah Can’t Even. If you are interested in stalking him, he still lives in London, where he spends a lot of time telling people that Noah Can’t Even is only partly autobiographical, and his mum has definitely never done a Beyoncé tribute act.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
February 11, 2024
Simon James Green is one of my favourite contemporary writers, his books always make me laugh (which is a pretty big accomplishment as I don’t tend to laugh while reading) The Big Ask is yet another brilliant story of his!
June 19, 2024
✰ 3.75 stars ✰
“I become aware of his hand brushing mine. It’s a very gentle questyion.
It’s: Do you want to hold hands?
It’s: Do you feel this too?
It’s: I think I like you. Do you like me?”
There's something about SJG's books that just wins me over; it's how effortless his words are in drawing the fine balance between humor and seriousness, while still staying true to the heart of the story. That he captures the characters' personalities and dynamics with such flexible ease that leave me with a warm fuzzy feeling inside. And there's perhaps no question more daunting and more pressuring then that of The Big Ask. But, SJG's first novel for Barrington Stoke - an award-winning, independent children's publisher of top-quality, super-readable, and dyslexia-friendly short novels that are expertly designed to ensure an accessible read for those who struggle and a quick win for more confident readers - addresses more than just this life-changing question. It's a heartwarming and wholesome read that captures what it means and what it takes to stay true to who you are and how you feel - without anyone's interference or judgment holding you back.
“Ask him, else you’ll never know.”
I laugh again and say, “Sure, sure.”
“Else one day, on your deathbed, you’ll wonder: What if?! What if I’d asked Harvey Ledger to the prom – would my life have been totally different?”
The Big Ask asks that big question that arises every time during prom - Will you go to prom with me? And when super uncool, totally unpopular awkward gay teen, Alfie, on an impulsive whim asks super popular straight boy and suddenly very single, but still totally handsome, Harvey to prom - 'I didn’t just bag the hottest boy in the school as my prom date. I couldn’t have. Could I?' - let's just say all hell breaks loose - in more ways than one. 😔 What ensues in the four day before prom is a meltdown of epic proportions on all sides - questioning views and fearful expectations that have both Harvey and Alfie wondering is it even worth it when there are so many vultures, excuse me, I meant naysayers, objecting to this simple act of two people going together? 😞
And with only three days and counting till prom - I loved how much SJG was able to touch upon - how he made the two of them feel so real in their doubts and hesitancy about going through with it, while also shedding light on the bravery in doing so. ❤️🩹❤️🩹 Harvey never makes Alfie feel inferior to him - even when Alfie feels that he doesn't measure up to the awesomeness of Harvey - he treats him so normally and kindly, that even during their prom preparations, I felt so much between the two. 'So, I’m not going to try to break Harvey’s walls down. But I am going to let him know that it’s safe on the other side, if he wants to join me.' You get such a feel into their characters and how their lives are affected by how people judge others. They were so sweet and cute together - a kind and true eagerness of wanting to share this special moment together, and trying to drown out all those who oppose it or are offended by it. 🥹
“Let people be. Let them do their thing. You don’t like it? Then don’t be part of it.
But how dare you make their lives harder in the process?”
Alfie was such a dear - he was so thoughtful and considerate about Harvey's feelings, but still felt so unsure about being worthy enough to be going out with him. Harvey had such a warm and compassionate heart; he had a lot more on his plate going for him, so thoughtful and considerate for Harvey in the care he was putting into making prom special for both of them. Homophobia is also touched upon, but SJG navigates the levity and the heaviness with such kindness and tenderness to it that neither the reader or the two young men get swept away by it. It also addresses how people's expectations make it difficult for those being targeted to be honest about themselves - unsure of opening up to those around them - not knowing how they'll react. 🥺 'We’re us. We’re different. And we should get to make our own choices.' And for Alfie to be as supportive and understanding as he was during that wild time of some others' questionable actions, omg, how does SJG come up with those absurd actions that had me sit there in stunned silence and widen my eyes in shock at the lengths some would go through - whoops, sorry about that runaway tangent. 😟
Keeping the intended target audience in mind, I also want to applaud the writing style; with short chapters with simple writing that had a fast pace to it, he still made the feelings and characters come alive in a relatable way that made the story flow very well. Even with a few chapters that consisted only of Alfie's insightful comments, they still carried so much weight to them. 👍🏻👍🏻 'I think you look good as you are, but if it makes you happy, go for it.' The moments where both young men reminded themselves of this feeling was so heartwarming and caring that I just wanted more of these two! I was able to laugh and love and I ended it with such a soft, if not goofy smile on my face. It left me with the desire to put an end to all those who refuse to let people be; what would it take for the world to learn to live and let live. 🫶🏻🫶🏻
“We look … happy. We look young and hopeful and like we’ve got the world at our feet, and we look …
We look …
Like we belong together.”
Just really a lovely read, one that I enjoyed reading immensely that reaffirmed how SJG always manages to win my heart over in more ways than one - especially with how seamless his brand of humor fits into the plot. 🥰 👌🏻 It was rough and tough at times, but it was also so very hopeful and pure and honest. It sheds light on all the big questions in life, without ever crossing the line of being too much. The side characters, well, at the least the good ones were 'the ones who love you just as you are, whoever you are'; it's so important to have that kind of support in your life and I appreciated how they were there for Harvey and Alfie. It leaves you with the heartwarming and hopeful message about how important it is to be true to yourself and to take your time; no one has the right to decide for you and you don't owe anyone anything about how you feel or who you want to be. 🙏🏻🤍🙏🏻
“I become aware of his hand brushing mine. It’s a very gentle questyion.
It’s: Do you want to hold hands?
It’s: Do you feel this too?
It’s: I think I like you. Do you like me?”
There's something about SJG's books that just wins me over; it's how effortless his words are in drawing the fine balance between humor and seriousness, while still staying true to the heart of the story. That he captures the characters' personalities and dynamics with such flexible ease that leave me with a warm fuzzy feeling inside. And there's perhaps no question more daunting and more pressuring then that of The Big Ask. But, SJG's first novel for Barrington Stoke - an award-winning, independent children's publisher of top-quality, super-readable, and dyslexia-friendly short novels that are expertly designed to ensure an accessible read for those who struggle and a quick win for more confident readers - addresses more than just this life-changing question. It's a heartwarming and wholesome read that captures what it means and what it takes to stay true to who you are and how you feel - without anyone's interference or judgment holding you back.
“Ask him, else you’ll never know.”
I laugh again and say, “Sure, sure.”
“Else one day, on your deathbed, you’ll wonder: What if?! What if I’d asked Harvey Ledger to the prom – would my life have been totally different?”
The Big Ask asks that big question that arises every time during prom - Will you go to prom with me? And when super uncool, totally unpopular awkward gay teen, Alfie, on an impulsive whim asks super popular straight boy and suddenly very single, but still totally handsome, Harvey to prom - 'I didn’t just bag the hottest boy in the school as my prom date. I couldn’t have. Could I?' - let's just say all hell breaks loose - in more ways than one. 😔 What ensues in the four day before prom is a meltdown of epic proportions on all sides - questioning views and fearful expectations that have both Harvey and Alfie wondering is it even worth it when there are so many vultures, excuse me, I meant naysayers, objecting to this simple act of two people going together? 😞
And with only three days and counting till prom - I loved how much SJG was able to touch upon - how he made the two of them feel so real in their doubts and hesitancy about going through with it, while also shedding light on the bravery in doing so. ❤️🩹❤️🩹 Harvey never makes Alfie feel inferior to him - even when Alfie feels that he doesn't measure up to the awesomeness of Harvey - he treats him so normally and kindly, that even during their prom preparations, I felt so much between the two. 'So, I’m not going to try to break Harvey’s walls down. But I am going to let him know that it’s safe on the other side, if he wants to join me.' You get such a feel into their characters and how their lives are affected by how people judge others. They were so sweet and cute together - a kind and true eagerness of wanting to share this special moment together, and trying to drown out all those who oppose it or are offended by it. 🥹
“Let people be. Let them do their thing. You don’t like it? Then don’t be part of it.
But how dare you make their lives harder in the process?”
Alfie was such a dear - he was so thoughtful and considerate about Harvey's feelings, but still felt so unsure about being worthy enough to be going out with him. Harvey had such a warm and compassionate heart; he had a lot more on his plate going for him, so thoughtful and considerate for Harvey in the care he was putting into making prom special for both of them. Homophobia is also touched upon, but SJG navigates the levity and the heaviness with such kindness and tenderness to it that neither the reader or the two young men get swept away by it. It also addresses how people's expectations make it difficult for those being targeted to be honest about themselves - unsure of opening up to those around them - not knowing how they'll react. 🥺 'We’re us. We’re different. And we should get to make our own choices.' And for Alfie to be as supportive and understanding as he was during that wild time of some others' questionable actions, omg, how does SJG come up with those absurd actions that had me sit there in stunned silence and widen my eyes in shock at the lengths some would go through - whoops, sorry about that runaway tangent. 😟
Keeping the intended target audience in mind, I also want to applaud the writing style; with short chapters with simple writing that had a fast pace to it, he still made the feelings and characters come alive in a relatable way that made the story flow very well. Even with a few chapters that consisted only of Alfie's insightful comments, they still carried so much weight to them. 👍🏻👍🏻 'I think you look good as you are, but if it makes you happy, go for it.' The moments where both young men reminded themselves of this feeling was so heartwarming and caring that I just wanted more of these two! I was able to laugh and love and I ended it with such a soft, if not goofy smile on my face. It left me with the desire to put an end to all those who refuse to let people be; what would it take for the world to learn to live and let live. 🫶🏻🫶🏻
“We look … happy. We look young and hopeful and like we’ve got the world at our feet, and we look …
We look …
Like we belong together.”
Just really a lovely read, one that I enjoyed reading immensely that reaffirmed how SJG always manages to win my heart over in more ways than one - especially with how seamless his brand of humor fits into the plot. 🥰 👌🏻 It was rough and tough at times, but it was also so very hopeful and pure and honest. It sheds light on all the big questions in life, without ever crossing the line of being too much. The side characters, well, at the least the good ones were 'the ones who love you just as you are, whoever you are'; it's so important to have that kind of support in your life and I appreciated how they were there for Harvey and Alfie. It leaves you with the heartwarming and hopeful message about how important it is to be true to yourself and to take your time; no one has the right to decide for you and you don't owe anyone anything about how you feel or who you want to be. 🙏🏻🤍🙏🏻
Read
February 11, 2024[gifted]
Delightfully funny, uplifting and sweet. The queer high school promposal drama I wish I'd had as a teen!
Delightfully funny, uplifting and sweet. The queer high school promposal drama I wish I'd had as a teen!
March 11, 2025
I had no idea, before I requested this ARC, that such a thing as a dyslexia-friendly publishing house existed, but good for them and good for Simon James Green.
I'm not in general big on YA, but Green's books reliably hit a sweet spot -- young, but reaching some emotional depth while also being sharp and funny. ("Heartbreak Boys" is a special favorite.) I was interested to learn how he'd manage under whatever constraints make prose dyslexia-friendly. Presumably design choices are also involved, but this ARC was in PDF form, and as always in such cases the formatting was a complete mess, so I have nothing to say on that score.
"The Big Ask" isn't up to the standard set by Green's best books: it's just not as complex, and the characters either speak or think in homiletic terms more than one too many times. When the villain comes out with (sorry, couldn't resist) the usual "I don't agree with all that LGBTQ stuff," our hero calls him out thus:
That having been said, Green's humor is as always corny-delightful, from Alfie's Sonic the Hedgehog boxers, to “Maybe Harvey’s been working out his sexuality? Maybe he’s bi, or pan! I saw him order an oat-milk latte once," to a certain not-quite-villain insisting that "Just because I'm beautiful and popular doesn't mean I don't have feelings. I’m actually really deep? Like, I totally cry every time I watch Toy Story 3." Bless.
I'd happily give this book to any kid of middle school age and up, depending on their facility with reading. There are a couple of passing references to erections, and that's about as salacious as things get; Alfie's a kind and brave protagonist, and if the life lessons strike an adult reader as heavy-handed -- eh, who cares; queer and not-queer alike, kids need those messages.
Thanks to Barrington Stoke and Edelweiss for the ARC.
I'm not in general big on YA, but Green's books reliably hit a sweet spot -- young, but reaching some emotional depth while also being sharp and funny. ("Heartbreak Boys" is a special favorite.) I was interested to learn how he'd manage under whatever constraints make prose dyslexia-friendly. Presumably design choices are also involved, but this ARC was in PDF form, and as always in such cases the formatting was a complete mess, so I have nothing to say on that score.
"The Big Ask" isn't up to the standard set by Green's best books: it's just not as complex, and the characters either speak or think in homiletic terms more than one too many times. When the villain comes out with (sorry, couldn't resist) the usual "I don't agree with all that LGBTQ stuff," our hero calls him out thus:
“What [another character], or anyone else, chooses to do has no impact on your life whatsoever. ... Nor does who they are, or how they identify. Let people be. Let them do their thing. You don’t like it? Then don’t be part of it. But how dare you make their lives harder in the process?"Hard agree! But still: a homily.
That having been said, Green's humor is as always corny-delightful, from Alfie's Sonic the Hedgehog boxers, to “Maybe Harvey’s been working out his sexuality? Maybe he’s bi, or pan! I saw him order an oat-milk latte once," to a certain not-quite-villain insisting that "Just because I'm beautiful and popular doesn't mean I don't have feelings. I’m actually really deep? Like, I totally cry every time I watch Toy Story 3." Bless.
I'd happily give this book to any kid of middle school age and up, depending on their facility with reading. There are a couple of passing references to erections, and that's about as salacious as things get; Alfie's a kind and brave protagonist, and if the life lessons strike an adult reader as heavy-handed -- eh, who cares; queer and not-queer alike, kids need those messages.
Thanks to Barrington Stoke and Edelweiss for the ARC.
July 7, 2024
A very short novella about not letting your life be ruled by other people’s ideas if you or what you’re supposed to be like written in the usual hilarious ways of Simon James Green.
You don’t always have to have the answers for the big questions to live your life the way you want to.
Definitely worth a read, not only for teens!
You don’t always have to have the answers for the big questions to live your life the way you want to.
Definitely worth a read, not only for teens!
October 21, 2024
This is such a wholesome little book! I absolutely adore all of Simon's books, and this one is especially cute. It's more aimed towards a younger audience, showing that diversity is alright, and that it's perfectly fine to figure out your true self. 💜
Before I know it, his arms are around me and he's holding me tight, his face buried in my shoulder and mine in his.
And. We. Just. Breathe.
We. Just. Exist.
No questions
No answers
No doubts
No fears
No one else.
No judgement
Just us.
Perfect.
Before I know it, his arms are around me and he's holding me tight, his face buried in my shoulder and mine in his.
And. We. Just. Breathe.
We. Just. Exist.
No questions
No answers
No doubts
No fears
No one else.
No judgement
Just us.
Perfect.
June 15, 2024
I am not exaggerating when I say that Simon is the funniest YA author out there. His references are PERFECT—seriously, I need whatever he’s on. Beyond the humor, the story is both adorable and relatable. I’ve mentioned it in multiple interviews, but the reason I’ve adored Simon’s books since day one is because of his relatable and realistic characters. As someone who isn’t a hyper-masculine, ridiculously sexy gay guy, it’s incredibly refreshing to read about main characters who are averagely built, a bit awkward, but most importantly, unapologetically themselves. Personality, after all, is what matters most, and Simon’s books continually remind me that you don’t have to fit into a certain box to be the perfect homosexual. I can just be my awkward, nerdy self, and the world will keep spinning.
Aside from the personal connection I have with his writing, he is also just a damn good author. I could praise him for hours about the good he is doing for the LGBTQ+ community (and trust me, I’ve made that very clear over the years), but with each book, his writing gets better and better. His references are up to date and genuinely made me laugh, and his characters are so strong and original. Even the side characters have fully-fledged personalities. Mind you, I finished this book in 1.5 hours and got so attached to the characters that I will now have a sad shower because I miss them. That is how good his writing is. Okay, I might be a little biased, but the reviews don’t lie, okay!
Long story short, I think Simon’s books, even when they get a bit unserious (which I love because humor is everything), consistently teach younger gay teens that they are worthy and enough. Your sexuality is yours alone—you don’t owe anyone an explanation, nor do you have to prove anything to anyone. And I think that is beautiful.
Did I mention he is funny yet? Like, I’m being so serious right now—I’m going to re-read his books again ASAP🙈
Aside from the personal connection I have with his writing, he is also just a damn good author. I could praise him for hours about the good he is doing for the LGBTQ+ community (and trust me, I’ve made that very clear over the years), but with each book, his writing gets better and better. His references are up to date and genuinely made me laugh, and his characters are so strong and original. Even the side characters have fully-fledged personalities. Mind you, I finished this book in 1.5 hours and got so attached to the characters that I will now have a sad shower because I miss them. That is how good his writing is. Okay, I might be a little biased, but the reviews don’t lie, okay!
Long story short, I think Simon’s books, even when they get a bit unserious (which I love because humor is everything), consistently teach younger gay teens that they are worthy and enough. Your sexuality is yours alone—you don’t owe anyone an explanation, nor do you have to prove anything to anyone. And I think that is beautiful.
Did I mention he is funny yet? Like, I’m being so serious right now—I’m going to re-read his books again ASAP🙈
November 24, 2024
This was a very short novella about what happens when you dare to do what you always wanted. What if that thing you wanted is not as impossible as you imagined it to be if you just dare to do it.
Alfie is your typical nerd and he asks Harvey, the most popular boy at school, to prom. He almost asks as a joke knowing Harvey would never agree to go with him, but Harvey says yes.
A short and sweet coming of age story and the never ending journey of discovering who you are and not being scared to take a chance on your dreams.
Very cute, funny and wholesome. Perfect quick read when you need something to cheer you up.
Alfie is your typical nerd and he asks Harvey, the most popular boy at school, to prom. He almost asks as a joke knowing Harvey would never agree to go with him, but Harvey says yes.
A short and sweet coming of age story and the never ending journey of discovering who you are and not being scared to take a chance on your dreams.
Very cute, funny and wholesome. Perfect quick read when you need something to cheer you up.
September 4, 2024
This was short but very sweet, with a great message. Perfect as a quick audiobook!
February 28, 2024
This is such a lovely short cute read. Thank you to Harper Collins for gifting me an Arc to review.
This book is perfect for young people searching for a cute, soppy (but rather funny) short read. The characters are relatable and so well developed considering the pace of the book.
Each chapter bounces between emotions but flows incredibly well. The plot is interesting, exciting and well paced. I was hooked from the first page.
Simon James Green writes with such a fantastic flair for this type of genre and his representation of feelings from members of the LGBTQ+ community are always spot on. Another 5/5 book 🫶
This book is perfect for young people searching for a cute, soppy (but rather funny) short read. The characters are relatable and so well developed considering the pace of the book.
Each chapter bounces between emotions but flows incredibly well. The plot is interesting, exciting and well paced. I was hooked from the first page.
Simon James Green writes with such a fantastic flair for this type of genre and his representation of feelings from members of the LGBTQ+ community are always spot on. Another 5/5 book 🫶
June 15, 2024
the audacity of this being so short. I need more! I love SJG so much, he's not allowed to ever stop writing books.
July 18, 2024
Simon James Green writes great, fun, books, all of which should be turned into fantastic TV, but I am far too old to give a meaningful review for this story! The times thay have been changing...
November 2, 2024
4.25 stars
June 25, 2024
Short but cute book
April 18, 2025
Not sure whether this was meant to be in the US or UK and the pace was super fast. Cute enough but the pace made it wholly unrealistic and it felt a little preachy if im honest. Some funny bits but nothing overly meaningful.
February 27, 2024
5⭐️
AD-PR PRODUCT
A feel good LGBT+ YA read that melted my heart! ❤️🏳️🌈
Step back Nick and Charlie and make way for Harvey and Alfie, the new guys in town! I absolutely loved this book. The fact that Green made me feel all the emotions in just 112 pages really cements how fantastic and skilful his writing is.
This book emitted Heartstopper vibes, but what I loved more about this was how Green has incorporated all the insinuations and subtle sexual references. This read felt so real with them.
The book is based around Alfie, the non sporty and unpopular gay kid, who shoots for the stars and asks the recently single, fit and very popular straight kid Harvey to prom.
From page 1 I was in love with the characters and felt like I’d known them for years. Jasminder was a wonderful friend to Alfie. This book fits into the rom-com genre and was fast paced which suited the read perfectly. Consisting of short chapters with cliffhangers and a heartwarming story, it’s no surprise that @clairsbooks and I devoured this book in just over an hour.
This short novel doesn’t just feature the happy moments of being a teen and having a major crush, it also includes the struggles that the LGBT+ community face with coming out, bigots, homophobia and familial expectations, and I thought this was important to include. I love how Green doesn’t make this a mood downer in this book though and really emphasises the idea that as long as you’re happy, why care?!
The book was beautifully written and culminates with a very strong and impactful statement which I loved. We need more of Harvey and Alfie! ❤️
Green knows how to make you feel mushy inside with his novels and he sure has delivered again here, securing a place in my auto-buy list!
Thank you Clair for this buddy read. Our chats were fantastic and I can’t wait to read more SJG books with you! 🥰
Also, a huge thank you to @barringtonstoke (and @simonjamesgreen) for sending me this proof after winning your giveaway. I love how the publisher specialises in shorter books with dyslexia friendly features.
I can’t wait for you all to meet Harvey and Alfie in The Big Ask, publishing 6th June 2024! 😍
Check out the triggers ⚠️
AD-PR PRODUCT
A feel good LGBT+ YA read that melted my heart! ❤️🏳️🌈
Step back Nick and Charlie and make way for Harvey and Alfie, the new guys in town! I absolutely loved this book. The fact that Green made me feel all the emotions in just 112 pages really cements how fantastic and skilful his writing is.
This book emitted Heartstopper vibes, but what I loved more about this was how Green has incorporated all the insinuations and subtle sexual references. This read felt so real with them.
The book is based around Alfie, the non sporty and unpopular gay kid, who shoots for the stars and asks the recently single, fit and very popular straight kid Harvey to prom.
From page 1 I was in love with the characters and felt like I’d known them for years. Jasminder was a wonderful friend to Alfie. This book fits into the rom-com genre and was fast paced which suited the read perfectly. Consisting of short chapters with cliffhangers and a heartwarming story, it’s no surprise that @clairsbooks and I devoured this book in just over an hour.
This short novel doesn’t just feature the happy moments of being a teen and having a major crush, it also includes the struggles that the LGBT+ community face with coming out, bigots, homophobia and familial expectations, and I thought this was important to include. I love how Green doesn’t make this a mood downer in this book though and really emphasises the idea that as long as you’re happy, why care?!
The book was beautifully written and culminates with a very strong and impactful statement which I loved. We need more of Harvey and Alfie! ❤️
Green knows how to make you feel mushy inside with his novels and he sure has delivered again here, securing a place in my auto-buy list!
Thank you Clair for this buddy read. Our chats were fantastic and I can’t wait to read more SJG books with you! 🥰
Also, a huge thank you to @barringtonstoke (and @simonjamesgreen) for sending me this proof after winning your giveaway. I love how the publisher specialises in shorter books with dyslexia friendly features.
I can’t wait for you all to meet Harvey and Alfie in The Big Ask, publishing 6th June 2024! 😍
Check out the triggers ⚠️
May 28, 2024
Where do I start? It's funny, it discusses homophobia (this is addressed), and brightens the mood when the best things happen.
Prom beckons for yr 11. Harvey and Summer have been the golden couple since Yr8 of course they're ok for a prom date! But on that morning, 4 days before Prom, Alfie's friend Jas arrives at his house (it's late and he's still in boxers and a tshirt). Harvey and Summer have split up!
Alfie is not popular, not the sporty gym type, he's gay and he's going to prom alone. Or at least until Jas decides he's doing something else. Surely he can't....
Jas has arranged to meet Harvey at Alfie's house before her archery lesson with him.
Harvey is most amused at Alfie's attire. Alfie says he's heard about...then does the unthinkable and asks Harvey to prom!
The next three days are a whirlwind as Alfie and Harvey arrange their attire. Summer tries to get Harvey back, and is horrid to Alfie! But she isn't alone Harvey does not have nice 'friends' and one is worse than others. Harvey says he can't go anymore, he can't deal with the questions.
Can Alfie get Harvey to prom? No questions asked?
Really good book. I enjoy Simon's style of writing immensely.
Thanks to Poppy at Barrington stoke for this early copy.
TA, ESCP.
Prom beckons for yr 11. Harvey and Summer have been the golden couple since Yr8 of course they're ok for a prom date! But on that morning, 4 days before Prom, Alfie's friend Jas arrives at his house (it's late and he's still in boxers and a tshirt). Harvey and Summer have split up!
Alfie is not popular, not the sporty gym type, he's gay and he's going to prom alone. Or at least until Jas decides he's doing something else. Surely he can't....
Jas has arranged to meet Harvey at Alfie's house before her archery lesson with him.
Harvey is most amused at Alfie's attire. Alfie says he's heard about...then does the unthinkable and asks Harvey to prom!
The next three days are a whirlwind as Alfie and Harvey arrange their attire. Summer tries to get Harvey back, and is horrid to Alfie! But she isn't alone Harvey does not have nice 'friends' and one is worse than others. Harvey says he can't go anymore, he can't deal with the questions.
Can Alfie get Harvey to prom? No questions asked?
Really good book. I enjoy Simon's style of writing immensely.
Thanks to Poppy at Barrington stoke for this early copy.
TA, ESCP.
October 14, 2025
It is an incredibly simple story. With a small page count and large print text (the back of the book says it’s dyslexia friendly) this is a book that took me about half an hour to get through. With the short length comes the issue of a lack of room for anything to breathe or develop. Story developments happen at a rapid-fire pace, and are given no time to really sit with the characters or stew, and the characters themselves are extremely simple to a point where the supporting cast is largely one-note, and only really exist to push the story along more. It’s a basic romance at that, following a simple buildup to a prom that goes well, there’s very little substance here. But, for what it is, it’s executed decently. The writing is snappy and has a lot of modern slang terms in it, which gives me the impression of this being written out as if they’re the thoughts of the character (makes for a relatable YA book, too) and there are some decent bits of comedic writing here and there. There are several chapters that are singular sentences which is funny the first few times but does wear itself out. It’s not bad, but it’s nothing super memorable or interesting. It’s a nice feel-good mini-time killer.
November 20, 2024
I ordered this one purely because it was Simon James Green, and his emotionally stunted awkward male MCs are always a delight.
This one came in for me, and it looks like a middle grade book. Super thin, giant font, lemony coloured pages. Then it starts swearing. So no, despite its looks, don’t let this one fool you. This is a YA book made accessible to teens who have difficulty reading; giving them a story they’d actually enjoy reading. I didn’t find the vocabulary to be dumbed down though, just dyslexia font, and a shorter story that doesn’t seem so daunting to hesitant readers, with a topic that’s relevant to them despite their level of reading ability.
Like all his other books, this is overly dramatic and full of all the extreme teenage archetypes, and is very tongue in cheek. It delivers a message without preaching or hitting you over the head with it, and it rounded out the story nicely. There’s a lot of social commentary in this one, all expressed to extreme lengths with the usual humour you’d expect.
This was just a delightful little foray into Alfie’s life and I finished with a smile.
This one came in for me, and it looks like a middle grade book. Super thin, giant font, lemony coloured pages. Then it starts swearing. So no, despite its looks, don’t let this one fool you. This is a YA book made accessible to teens who have difficulty reading; giving them a story they’d actually enjoy reading. I didn’t find the vocabulary to be dumbed down though, just dyslexia font, and a shorter story that doesn’t seem so daunting to hesitant readers, with a topic that’s relevant to them despite their level of reading ability.
Like all his other books, this is overly dramatic and full of all the extreme teenage archetypes, and is very tongue in cheek. It delivers a message without preaching or hitting you over the head with it, and it rounded out the story nicely. There’s a lot of social commentary in this one, all expressed to extreme lengths with the usual humour you’d expect.
This was just a delightful little foray into Alfie’s life and I finished with a smile.
June 17, 2024
Simon James Green gets my sense of humor! I love the witty, silly, snarky humor and all of his book just have it so perfectly! Alfie has had a crush on Harvey for a long time. Harvey has been attached to Summer forever, everyone knows they’re going to end up together. But when Summer breaks up with Harvey could this be Alfie’s chance? Is Harvey even interested in boys? To Alfie’s surprise Harvey agrees to go to PROM with him. What does this mean? Things are about to get complicated because Summer starts scheming to get Harvey back. Can Alfie compete with their history and literary everyone wanting Harvey and Summer back together? Who will Harvey choose? And the question on everyone’s mind does Harvey like guys? The only difficult thing with this book is that it’s so short!! I could have read a lot more about Alfie and Harvey! But the short length helps the book serve its meaning about everyone figuring out who they are on their own time and not defining themselves until they’re ready! Cute, sweet, and funny! Highly recommend!
June 20, 2024
The core SJG experience: warm-hearted, funny, and reassuring.
The short length of the book doesn't really allow for the typically great character building and show-don't-tell, but it's good for people who's starting to read again.
I thought Alfie was just another of the typical insecure twink like Noah, Alex, and Jamie that I've read about before in his previous book, but Alfie is a lot more fine tuned to go on with the times. I feel this book is also a lot more accessible to younger kids (10-15).
It's 2024 and we can't afford to be complacent with homophobia yet. They still lurk there, somewhere, masking themselves as the good ones, and where they feel safe enough they would drop something like "I'm fine with LGBT people, I just don't want their lifestyle forced on me".
Also, posh people are horrible LOL.
The short length of the book doesn't really allow for the typically great character building and show-don't-tell, but it's good for people who's starting to read again.
I thought Alfie was just another of the typical insecure twink like Noah, Alex, and Jamie that I've read about before in his previous book, but Alfie is a lot more fine tuned to go on with the times. I feel this book is also a lot more accessible to younger kids (10-15).
It's 2024 and we can't afford to be complacent with homophobia yet. They still lurk there, somewhere, masking themselves as the good ones, and where they feel safe enough they would drop something like "I'm fine with LGBT people, I just don't want their lifestyle forced on me".
Also, posh people are horrible LOL.
December 17, 2024
Man I didn't expect the outcome. Joe and Summer can get a life, like imagine being homophobic. I actually didn't even think it would be Joe, I thought it was just something Summer would do and I'm proud of Alfie for standing up and facing the homophobes. I can't believe Summer would "walk infront of a bus" just to get Harvey's attention. Attention seeking much!! I actually thought Harvey would say yes but I wished so hard that he said no and thank god it came true aha! I think this book is good to spread awareness for LGBTQ+ like they should stand up to the people who have a problem with it which they shouldn't as it isn't their problem. I love Jas, she's so cool! I'm proud of Harvey and Alfie tho.
January 11, 2025
What a wonderful short read!
I love Simon's style of writing: short, easy, and simple chapters that are carried over so nicely into the next. And! 'published by a dyslexia-friendly house' I LOVE THIS.
The story itself is fun, and uplifting, about real topics and self-discovery. A really nice coming-of-age novella that older audiences would find a joy to read too. I need more from these characters. I felt some chapters could have developed more but then that wouldn't be a novella - just means we need a full written adventure from them both.
I think Noah Can't Even is next on my list! Thank you Simon!
I love Simon's style of writing: short, easy, and simple chapters that are carried over so nicely into the next. And! 'published by a dyslexia-friendly house' I LOVE THIS.
The story itself is fun, and uplifting, about real topics and self-discovery. A really nice coming-of-age novella that older audiences would find a joy to read too. I need more from these characters. I felt some chapters could have developed more but then that wouldn't be a novella - just means we need a full written adventure from them both.
I think Noah Can't Even is next on my list! Thank you Simon!
February 17, 2024
Firstly, thank you to the publisher for sending me a proof copy of this in exchange for an honest review.
Ohmygoshh this was so cute! I've loved SJG books for years, they're always such a joy to read and this was no different.
A genuine and inspirational story that made me grin like the cheshire cat but also roll my eyes constantly at some... lets say, less civilised characters.
Its so important to be true to yourself. As long as you're happy then nothing else matters. You dont owe anyone anything. Take your time.
❤️🧡💛💚💙💜
Ohmygoshh this was so cute! I've loved SJG books for years, they're always such a joy to read and this was no different.
A genuine and inspirational story that made me grin like the cheshire cat but also roll my eyes constantly at some... lets say, less civilised characters.
Its so important to be true to yourself. As long as you're happy then nothing else matters. You dont owe anyone anything. Take your time.
❤️🧡💛💚💙💜
June 4, 2024
⭐️ 5/5
📄 113 pages (proof)
#️⃣ Interest Age: 13+
📚Barrington Stoke publish super-readable, dyslexia-friendly fiction
📖 It’s 12pm when Alfie Parker opens the door to jas. she has big news and prom is only 4 days away. When an opportunity arises, do you take it?
2️⃣ 2nd SJG read (Boy Like Me ⭐️5)
🌶️ Innuendos and suggestions
❤️ I loved Harvey and his maturity and perceptiveness
❤️ There were so many amazing quotes
⏩️ I need to buy and read allllll of @sim books! The next one on my list is Heartbreak Boys
📆 26th February 2024
📄 113 pages (proof)
#️⃣ Interest Age: 13+
📚Barrington Stoke publish super-readable, dyslexia-friendly fiction
📖 It’s 12pm when Alfie Parker opens the door to jas. she has big news and prom is only 4 days away. When an opportunity arises, do you take it?
2️⃣ 2nd SJG read (Boy Like Me ⭐️5)
🌶️ Innuendos and suggestions
❤️ I loved Harvey and his maturity and perceptiveness
❤️ There were so many amazing quotes
⏩️ I need to buy and read allllll of @sim books! The next one on my list is Heartbreak Boys
📆 26th February 2024
March 1, 2025
The big ask by Simon James Green. Talk about being in the right place at the right time. Harvey just broke up with his gf, and Alfie was there to be asked to the prom. I liked how harvey was like no issues. But then I disliked it how when other people found out about it that he cowered like a dog. Like, really, mate, could you be any more vain. Then, at the end, they basically threw caution to the wind and decided to go to the prom again with Alfie, which was like. Yay!
I would have liked to see what happened at the prom and what they went through, but how it ended left me wanting more
I would have liked to see what happened at the prom and what they went through, but how it ended left me wanting more
September 3, 2025
the more i think about this book the more my review goes down. my review first started off around 4 stars, but i kept thinking about the book and yeahhhhh. some of the plot didn't sit right with me, for example, the fact harvey just got out of a toxic relationship and alfie's best friend is saying alfie should date harvey even tho harvey just got out of a relationship, is just crazy, well to me at least. if i were harvey i would at least want some time to process the breakup, yk? but i get it because of how short the book was.
September 25, 2025
I’ve been trying to get back into reading so this was the perfect book I really hated summer and Joe but some of the comments they made I have to admit they were kinda funny but I still hate them
I hated the fact that they didn’t get together but it was still a really cute and good read
Summer reminded me of someone I used to be friends with and that’s all I could think of when I read her lines also she kinda reminded me of Harper from date everything
I hated the fact that they didn’t get together but it was still a really cute and good read
Summer reminded me of someone I used to be friends with and that’s all I could think of when I read her lines also she kinda reminded me of Harper from date everything
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 6, 2024
A nice short read with an important message
As always SJG writes with his typical self aware writing style that brings these characters to life in all their glory. The book is a lovely short read with some very important messages - maybe we need more people like Harvey Ledger out there…
As always SJG writes with his typical self aware writing style that brings these characters to life in all their glory. The book is a lovely short read with some very important messages - maybe we need more people like Harvey Ledger out there…
September 13, 2024
It was alright, I wanted to read this because Simon James Green’s books are hilarious but I hadn’t realised that the intented audience for this book was a little bit younger than usually. So even though the characters were cute and the story wholesome, it just wasn’t for me. Great for teens under the age of 14.
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