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Meet Me at the Picket Line
Unionizing his job wasn’t on Eli Goldstein’s summer bucket list—but neither was falling for his irritatingly self-righteous and handsome school rival. Sparks fly on the picket line in this hilarious, coming-of-age rom-com that’s perfect for fans of Jason June, Page Powars, and A.M. Woody!
All’s fair in love and solidarity...
Eli Goldstein might be the only teenager looking forward to earning minimum wage at his objectively terrible summer job. Not only will he be working at the kitschy roadside museum he loves, he’ll finally have the down payment for his top surgery with a first-class surgeon.
But the museum really is a late-stage capitalist hellscape, and Eli’s co-workers—led by his irritatingly self-righteous and annoyingly attractive school rival, Efraín—plan to unionize. With his sanity and safety at risk on the job, Eli knows he has to join their campaign.
If he and Efraín can stop bickering long enough to keep their ragtag union together, they might actually have a shot. But when management begins to grow suspicious, Eli will have to make a choice: Is he willing to stand in solidarity with his friends and the boy he’s starting to fall for, even if it means risking his job and the key to his life-changing surgery?
All’s fair in love and solidarity...
Eli Goldstein might be the only teenager looking forward to earning minimum wage at his objectively terrible summer job. Not only will he be working at the kitschy roadside museum he loves, he’ll finally have the down payment for his top surgery with a first-class surgeon.
But the museum really is a late-stage capitalist hellscape, and Eli’s co-workers—led by his irritatingly self-righteous and annoyingly attractive school rival, Efraín—plan to unionize. With his sanity and safety at risk on the job, Eli knows he has to join their campaign.
If he and Efraín can stop bickering long enough to keep their ragtag union together, they might actually have a shot. But when management begins to grow suspicious, Eli will have to make a choice: Is he willing to stand in solidarity with his friends and the boy he’s starting to fall for, even if it means risking his job and the key to his life-changing surgery?
425 pages, Hardcover
First published May 26, 2026
About the author
Jasper Sanchez
4 books78 followersJasper Sanchez is the author of The (Un)Popular Vote, a Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection. He earned his BA in anthropology from the University of Pennsylvania and his MA in cinema and media studies from UCLA. While neither degree prepared him for the neoliberal hellscape of late-stage capitalism, they did push him to join the IWW as a red card-carrying Wobbly. He is a Californian by birth, disposition, and more recently, choice. When he's not writing, he can be found kvetching about capitalism and conversing with his cat. You can visit him online at www.jaspersanchez.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
February 7, 2026
Sometimes I read a story at the exact right moment. A novel gets published at the right time. Its characters fit the current world so well—the current US. Meet Me at the Picket Line is such a book. Because what’s more relevant these days than a story about teens fighting back against inhumanity, micro-aggressions, and marginalization? Teens who fight for their rights. Meet Me at the Picket Line is a story about resilience, resistance, and change. About finally speaking up and not accepting no for an answer.
I loved Jasper Sanchez’s writing. I am always so happy when the prose is vivid and colorful enough that I, someone whose mind usually only sees things in vague gray shapes, can picture the scenes so clearly. And Elisha, Eli, an autistic trans teen who is saving for top surgery, is incredibly relatable. He’s angsty at times. Egotistical. He spits out words. His interiority is wordy and fast. I laughed out loud at Efraín’s remark at one point:
”Elisha. In ten words or less.”
So yes, Eli is flawed. But his struggle to be seen as a trans guy is so real, and this book should land in the hands of all trans teens. And in the hands of parents. Teachers. Friends of trans teens. It’s informative and educational without being preachy.
I really adored the side cast too. I would have liked to see a bit more of Naomi, but maybe there’s a reason the reader does not see much of her. Eli tends to claim attention without meaning to. He simply doesn’t notice.
And then there is Efraín, that opinionated, compassionate guy I wanted to shout at from time to time. Doing so much for others and not caring about himself at all.
Do not read this book if you hate messy, flawed teens. But if you love boldness and a group of friends who believe it’s worth fighting for each other AND for others, I urge you to pick up this wonderful story.
Thank you, Harper Collins Children’s Books and NetGalley, for this important ARC!
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I loved Jasper Sanchez’s writing. I am always so happy when the prose is vivid and colorful enough that I, someone whose mind usually only sees things in vague gray shapes, can picture the scenes so clearly. And Elisha, Eli, an autistic trans teen who is saving for top surgery, is incredibly relatable. He’s angsty at times. Egotistical. He spits out words. His interiority is wordy and fast. I laughed out loud at Efraín’s remark at one point:
”Elisha. In ten words or less.”
So yes, Eli is flawed. But his struggle to be seen as a trans guy is so real, and this book should land in the hands of all trans teens. And in the hands of parents. Teachers. Friends of trans teens. It’s informative and educational without being preachy.
I really adored the side cast too. I would have liked to see a bit more of Naomi, but maybe there’s a reason the reader does not see much of her. Eli tends to claim attention without meaning to. He simply doesn’t notice.
And then there is Efraín, that opinionated, compassionate guy I wanted to shout at from time to time. Doing so much for others and not caring about himself at all.
Do not read this book if you hate messy, flawed teens. But if you love boldness and a group of friends who believe it’s worth fighting for each other AND for others, I urge you to pick up this wonderful story.
Thank you, Harper Collins Children’s Books and NetGalley, for this important ARC!
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June 11, 2026
A great YA summer workplace romance featuring a Jewish Autistic trans guy who has to fight to be able to wear a pronouns pin and ends up falling for their coworker while they bond over protesting against workplace injustices. The book tackles some tough topics from transphobia, racism and more. I also enjoyed the stressful relationship the MC has with their sister who is also neurodiverse and trying to come to terms with her own identity. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital and audio copy in exchange for my honest review. This is perfect for fans of Jason June and books like Ben and Beatriz by Katalina Gamarra.
July 8, 2026
3.5
I've been avoiding writing this review because I really struggle with finding the balance between acknowledging the way this book probably has to feel uncomfortable but also shouldn't and my own attempts at finding the correct levels of uncomfortable vs boundaries.
--
Meet Me at the Picket Line has a lot of amazing, important and impactful aspects, but it also displays a take on mental health that I found unusually difficult for me to look at without the bias of my own mental disabilities and illnesses.
The issue wasn't understanding how different the lived realities of these characters were. I think it was more about the expectations towards boundaries or rather the line that determines what takes priority over boundaries.
Which is essentially the underlying conflict of this book, though.
When do we disregard our own needs for the sake of the greater good, to fight for what's right and just. What happens when these perspectives are dynamic and put into different contexts of different lived realities.
All of that is, in general, very important to explore in my opinion. And I appreciated the book for doing that, for it is certainly no easy endeavour.
--
The expectations towards the main character were beyond my comfort zone and that was pretty much the point.
Be it projection or protection of my own boundaries, I struggled immensely with how situations were resolved, usually by the MMC putting his needs second. Which is not necessarily a bad thing!
Just the way it was done here felt incredibly frustrating to me.
Because I couldn't help but feel like the other characters, particularly the love interest, did very much not grant the MMC the respect of being seen fully that they in turn demanded of the world.
--
I know from other reviews that there is supposed to be much needed character development towards the end and maybe what troubled me was supposed to be troubling, so it could be resolved later.
However, I just wasn't able to continue as its impact on my own mental health and unlearning got increasingly painful and DNFed at ca.80%.
--
All that being said, I think Meet Me at the Picket Line needs its readers. It deserves them but it also needs them. Because it delivers in many aspects: Representation, true diversity, intersectionality and structural criticism, to just name a few.
The characters had the depth and contours they required and overall, it felt like a pretty well written book in most every aspect.
--
To sum it up:
Meet Me at the Picket Line has a lot of value and depth in its story. The questions being asked are probably more crucial than ever and the systemic criticism was incredibly approachable, scaled down to the dimensions of Eli's POV.
While this book doesn't feel like a light-hearted feel-good read (rightfully so), it still comes with a certain warmth and safety.
The writing and narration are good, so is the potential that this will leave readers with food for thought.
And while it clashed with my own attempt of dealing with disabilities in a world thats basically burning down around us, I am glad I read as much of it as I did.
--
Thank you to NetGalley, Harper Audio Children's and Jasper Sanchez for an ALC of Meet Me at the Picket Line
I've been avoiding writing this review because I really struggle with finding the balance between acknowledging the way this book probably has to feel uncomfortable but also shouldn't and my own attempts at finding the correct levels of uncomfortable vs boundaries.
--
Meet Me at the Picket Line has a lot of amazing, important and impactful aspects, but it also displays a take on mental health that I found unusually difficult for me to look at without the bias of my own mental disabilities and illnesses.
The issue wasn't understanding how different the lived realities of these characters were. I think it was more about the expectations towards boundaries or rather the line that determines what takes priority over boundaries.
Which is essentially the underlying conflict of this book, though.
When do we disregard our own needs for the sake of the greater good, to fight for what's right and just. What happens when these perspectives are dynamic and put into different contexts of different lived realities.
All of that is, in general, very important to explore in my opinion. And I appreciated the book for doing that, for it is certainly no easy endeavour.
--
The expectations towards the main character were beyond my comfort zone and that was pretty much the point.
Be it projection or protection of my own boundaries, I struggled immensely with how situations were resolved, usually by the MMC putting his needs second. Which is not necessarily a bad thing!
Just the way it was done here felt incredibly frustrating to me.
Because I couldn't help but feel like the other characters, particularly the love interest, did very much not grant the MMC the respect of being seen fully that they in turn demanded of the world.
--
I know from other reviews that there is supposed to be much needed character development towards the end and maybe what troubled me was supposed to be troubling, so it could be resolved later.
However, I just wasn't able to continue as its impact on my own mental health and unlearning got increasingly painful and DNFed at ca.80%.
--
All that being said, I think Meet Me at the Picket Line needs its readers. It deserves them but it also needs them. Because it delivers in many aspects: Representation, true diversity, intersectionality and structural criticism, to just name a few.
The characters had the depth and contours they required and overall, it felt like a pretty well written book in most every aspect.
--
To sum it up:
Meet Me at the Picket Line has a lot of value and depth in its story. The questions being asked are probably more crucial than ever and the systemic criticism was incredibly approachable, scaled down to the dimensions of Eli's POV.
While this book doesn't feel like a light-hearted feel-good read (rightfully so), it still comes with a certain warmth and safety.
The writing and narration are good, so is the potential that this will leave readers with food for thought.
And while it clashed with my own attempt of dealing with disabilities in a world thats basically burning down around us, I am glad I read as much of it as I did.
--
Thank you to NetGalley, Harper Audio Children's and Jasper Sanchez for an ALC of Meet Me at the Picket Line
May 31, 2026
MEET ME AT THE PICKET LINE by @jrsanchez is one of the best books I’ve read this year. It’s one of those rare books that is beautifully written, has a compelling plot and characters, AND still hits hard with the socio-political commentary in a way that never feels preachy or over the top.
Meet Me At The Picket Line tells the story of Eli, a trans masc teen who likes to keep his head down, who scores a dream summer job at the museum of his favorite tv show. However, when work isn’t everything Eli hopes, he’s forced to place his trust in others and face his fears of putting himself out there on display. Annnnnd then there’s Efraín— the infuriatingly handsome rich boy social justice warrior who cares way too much about everything…maybe even Eli?
I love this book so much. I’ve already convinced my school librarian to order a copy for our school and purchased my own trophy copy because this book is everything. I loved everything about it, but Sanchez’s writing is honestly what carries it all. There are so many stunning lines in this book that hit me with alllllll the feels, and then some. This book will mean so much to trans and queer youth, but will strike a chord with anyone who has ever had to be brave enough to take a stand and anyone who has ever struggled to be seen exactly as they are. The book also touches upon trans rights, worker’s rights, neurodivergence, and what it means to be a good friend and show up for each other.
The romance between Eli and Efraìn was perfect! It’s not over the top and doesn’t take away from the main plot which is more about Eli’s growth and journey. But Eli and Ef compliment and support each other so well that you’ll still be swooning and giggling like I was.
We read queer all year, but June is Pride Month, so there’s not a better time to grab a copy of Meet Me At The Picket Line by Jasper Sanchez and read it so we can gush about it together.
Thank you so much to @harperaudio @harpercollinschin @harpercollins for the ability to listen to this alc. This is my personal review! ❤️
Meet Me At The Picket Line tells the story of Eli, a trans masc teen who likes to keep his head down, who scores a dream summer job at the museum of his favorite tv show. However, when work isn’t everything Eli hopes, he’s forced to place his trust in others and face his fears of putting himself out there on display. Annnnnd then there’s Efraín— the infuriatingly handsome rich boy social justice warrior who cares way too much about everything…maybe even Eli?
I love this book so much. I’ve already convinced my school librarian to order a copy for our school and purchased my own trophy copy because this book is everything. I loved everything about it, but Sanchez’s writing is honestly what carries it all. There are so many stunning lines in this book that hit me with alllllll the feels, and then some. This book will mean so much to trans and queer youth, but will strike a chord with anyone who has ever had to be brave enough to take a stand and anyone who has ever struggled to be seen exactly as they are. The book also touches upon trans rights, worker’s rights, neurodivergence, and what it means to be a good friend and show up for each other.
The romance between Eli and Efraìn was perfect! It’s not over the top and doesn’t take away from the main plot which is more about Eli’s growth and journey. But Eli and Ef compliment and support each other so well that you’ll still be swooning and giggling like I was.
We read queer all year, but June is Pride Month, so there’s not a better time to grab a copy of Meet Me At The Picket Line by Jasper Sanchez and read it so we can gush about it together.
Thank you so much to @harperaudio @harpercollinschin @harpercollins for the ability to listen to this alc. This is my personal review! ❤️
May 28, 2026
Thanks Harper Audio for the advanced copy to review! I’m always going to enjoy a book read to me by Avi Roque who remains one of my favorite narrators. Their voice, pitch, inflection, and differentiating between characters is so incredibly easy to follow and enjoy.
I loved this book about teens unionizing. It was so interesting, smart, and understandable. The things the teens were dealing with at their workplace were really stressful for me and I was only reading the book.
Eli and Efrain had the sweetest love story on the side of the larger concept of the book. It was genuinely so cute and I loved watching them *grow* together. Their defense of each other was lovely and made me want to hug them both.
Very good book!
I loved this book about teens unionizing. It was so interesting, smart, and understandable. The things the teens were dealing with at their workplace were really stressful for me and I was only reading the book.
Eli and Efrain had the sweetest love story on the side of the larger concept of the book. It was genuinely so cute and I loved watching them *grow* together. Their defense of each other was lovely and made me want to hug them both.
Very good book!
May 26, 2026
ALC from NetGalley
I'm so glad to say that I liked this! I have been having trouble finding interest in young adult titles, but I think that this is a great example of a book that can appeal to all ages.
This could be due to the fact that the main character is autistic and trans. While I am not trans I can relate to the way the autism representation. I think that it did a great job with that.
The characters are teenagers so they can be self-centered and annoying. Which I can as someone who was a teenager and sees how they still act is accurate. With most novels the results of what happen are not that realistic, but I liked seeing a world where theae actions could result in great results.
I enjoyed the narrator and thought they did a good job bringing a voice to Eli
I'm so glad to say that I liked this! I have been having trouble finding interest in young adult titles, but I think that this is a great example of a book that can appeal to all ages.
This could be due to the fact that the main character is autistic and trans. While I am not trans I can relate to the way the autism representation. I think that it did a great job with that.
The characters are teenagers so they can be self-centered and annoying. Which I can as someone who was a teenager and sees how they still act is accurate. With most novels the results of what happen are not that realistic, but I liked seeing a world where theae actions could result in great results.
I enjoyed the narrator and thought they did a good job bringing a voice to Eli
May 3, 2026
This is such an important read for YA readers who identify with the rep in this story. I loved following the journey of Eli, a pedantic, queer, trans, Jewish, and autistic teen, as he navigates complex social issues like injustice and transphobia. The protesting theme was done really well, and I found myself highlighting so many impactful lines. Plus, the audio was excellent and really brought the characters to life. It is a solid YA read that balances heavy topics with a necessary sense of community and action.
Thank you to HarperAudio and HarperCollins for the ARC and ALC!
Thank you to HarperAudio and HarperCollins for the ARC and ALC!
May 22, 2026
I don't read a ton of YA anymore but I'm glad I took a chance on this one. The story follows Eli, a trans neurodivergent teen, hoping to nab a summer job at this favorite pop culture museum but things are not as great as he envisioned them once he gets his dream job. Management and customers are difficult and routinely misgender him either on purpose or out spite. He, alongside school rival Efrain, and the other summer workers, organize protests to better the working conditions for everyone. I think this is an important read for anyone who feels marginalized. While not intended to be a handbook, it should provide hope and a reminder that there's light at the end of the tunnel.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Audio Children's for the advance review copy. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Audio Children's for the advance review copy. All opinions are my own.
Did Not Finish
February 6, 2026Unfortunately, I had to dnf this one. There's nothing wrong with it, but I'm just not in the mood for such heavy subject matter right now. Maybe I'll give this one another shot later on.
June 1, 2026
2026: 3.75
This is one of those books that I appreciated more than I enjoyed, if that makes sense
This is one of those books that I appreciated more than I enjoyed, if that makes sense
June 2, 2026
If you were faced with discrimination, what would you do? If it was met with an apology and a smile afterward, would you still hold onto your anger? Jasper Sanchez writes about the daily life of Eli Goldstein, a transgender man who simply wants his community to accept him for who he is. While earning money for the top surgery he desperately needs, one of the first questions Eli asks is whether his workplace is inclusive. When he is assured that it is, Eli feels confident working at the museum for his favorite show alongside his sister and several classmates. However, when his boss refers to him and his sister as “the sisters,” or when an older coworker repeatedly calls him “she” or “girl,” Eli struggles to stand up against the bigotry and advocate for his rights.
What I liked most about Sanchez’s writing is how relatable it feels. Eli is a flawed character going through a great deal, and like most teenagers, he often chooses the selfish or less resilient path. As both a transgender and autistic person, Eli has many challenges to navigate, making it easier for him to endure insults rather than confront them. This is why Efrain, who is willing to stand up and fight for what he believes in, frustrates Eli so deeply while also becoming someone he admires. Yes, this is an enemies-to-lovers story, where Efrain slowly annoys Eli into falling for him, but through their relationship, Efrain also teaches Eli the importance of standing up for what is right and why it matters.
Sanchez tackles a wide range of issues throughout the novel, including transphobia, homophobia, classism, autism, and immigration laws. Alongside these heavier topics, the novel also weaves in friendship and romance, fitting its identity as a teen romance story.
That being said, the novel can feel overcrowded with social issues at times. Even though Sanchez keeps the plot moving quickly, the sheer number of themes occasionally makes the story feel dense and somewhat dragged out. I think the novel would have been stronger if its primary focus had remained on the transphobia Eli experiences. A smaller cast may also have allowed more room for the supporting characters to shine. Eli’s coworkers were a fantastic group, but because there were so many characters and storylines competing for attention, we rarely got to know them deeply. This was especially true for Eli’s sister, who I felt could have played a much larger role in the story.
What I liked most about Sanchez’s writing is how relatable it feels. Eli is a flawed character going through a great deal, and like most teenagers, he often chooses the selfish or less resilient path. As both a transgender and autistic person, Eli has many challenges to navigate, making it easier for him to endure insults rather than confront them. This is why Efrain, who is willing to stand up and fight for what he believes in, frustrates Eli so deeply while also becoming someone he admires. Yes, this is an enemies-to-lovers story, where Efrain slowly annoys Eli into falling for him, but through their relationship, Efrain also teaches Eli the importance of standing up for what is right and why it matters.
Sanchez tackles a wide range of issues throughout the novel, including transphobia, homophobia, classism, autism, and immigration laws. Alongside these heavier topics, the novel also weaves in friendship and romance, fitting its identity as a teen romance story.
That being said, the novel can feel overcrowded with social issues at times. Even though Sanchez keeps the plot moving quickly, the sheer number of themes occasionally makes the story feel dense and somewhat dragged out. I think the novel would have been stronger if its primary focus had remained on the transphobia Eli experiences. A smaller cast may also have allowed more room for the supporting characters to shine. Eli’s coworkers were a fantastic group, but because there were so many characters and storylines competing for attention, we rarely got to know them deeply. This was especially true for Eli’s sister, who I felt could have played a much larger role in the story.
July 1, 2026
I really liked this, especially the first half. Eli kind of sucks at times, but he's trying -- so say we all. I really enjoyed the nerdy homages here, and how the fictional TV fandom has some parallels with other classic sci-fi, while also being its own thing. Frankly, I'd watch it.
The best part about this was the story of the evolving union and collective actions. I enjoyed the characters, but at times it felt like their development fell by the wayside of the storyline. I would have liked to spend more time getting to know them, and for all of them to be more thoroughly fleshed out, but I didn't feel like there were parts I wish had been cut, so I guess my dream version of this story is like 600 pages long? Which I concede may be a bit much.
But I do wish that Efraín, in particular, got more development at the end. In the last third of the book, there was a lot less dialogue, and until that point I'd found him to be the most compelling character. Eli does this thing where he feels like the transphobia he faces is the worst thing anyone has experienced, and he gets called out a couple of times for failing to see what other people have going on, but... Efraín's backstory is *interesting,* and inadequately explored, IMO. Same with Lola. It's hard to talk about those things without including spoilers, but I will say that in my life, I have met a number of white trans and nonbinary folks whose personal experiences overshadow their empathy for folks dealing with other types of intersectional oppression. Is that diplomatic enough? :P White people have GOT to unpack their white privilege even when they experience bigotry of their own. There was a missed opportunity here.
Overall, though, I loved this. I liked that the MC was given space to mess up and learn from his mistakes, and the progression of the story felt very plausible and real. This reminded me of The Free People's Village with much smaller stakes... parts of it also bring to mind Stone Butch Blues, though with a smaller scope. In my mind, that's high praise. In general, I love that this book exists and feel like it's both timely in its publication and accessible for a YA audience while also tackling some complex topics with nuance and empathy.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC of the book. I was reaaaaally looking forward to this one, and Jasper Sanchez delivered!
The best part about this was the story of the evolving union and collective actions. I enjoyed the characters, but at times it felt like their development fell by the wayside of the storyline. I would have liked to spend more time getting to know them, and for all of them to be more thoroughly fleshed out, but I didn't feel like there were parts I wish had been cut, so I guess my dream version of this story is like 600 pages long? Which I concede may be a bit much.
But I do wish that Efraín, in particular, got more development at the end. In the last third of the book, there was a lot less dialogue, and until that point I'd found him to be the most compelling character. Eli does this thing where he feels like the transphobia he faces is the worst thing anyone has experienced, and he gets called out a couple of times for failing to see what other people have going on, but... Efraín's backstory is *interesting,* and inadequately explored, IMO. Same with Lola. It's hard to talk about those things without including spoilers, but I will say that in my life, I have met a number of white trans and nonbinary folks whose personal experiences overshadow their empathy for folks dealing with other types of intersectional oppression. Is that diplomatic enough? :P White people have GOT to unpack their white privilege even when they experience bigotry of their own. There was a missed opportunity here.
Overall, though, I loved this. I liked that the MC was given space to mess up and learn from his mistakes, and the progression of the story felt very plausible and real. This reminded me of The Free People's Village with much smaller stakes... parts of it also bring to mind Stone Butch Blues, though with a smaller scope. In my mind, that's high praise. In general, I love that this book exists and feel like it's both timely in its publication and accessible for a YA audience while also tackling some complex topics with nuance and empathy.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC of the book. I was reaaaaally looking forward to this one, and Jasper Sanchez delivered!
May 4, 2026
I received a free e-arc from NetGalley in exchange for an honest opinion.
I pretty much flew through this book. It was a little bit hard to get into at first, but very quickly I needed to know what happened next. It is important to know that, given the state of the world right now, it can be a very heavy read sometimes, but it is still hopeful. If you are able to read it right now, it will be worth it.
The main characters are teenagers and neurodivergent, which you are reminded of very often. They're also pretty horrible at communicating, and while it does get better, this was very frustrating at first. A lot of issues Elisha had in the beginning of the book probably could have been sorted in with a conversation with Efraín. Of course, this probably would have meant a shorter book as well.
Personally I also had some issues with an argument in the book. As mentioned in the synopsis, Eli is saving for top surgery, and risking his job means risking his medical treatment. However, this and other things get held against him despite the fact that medical care is necessary. Some things referenced don't even otherwise occur in the book, which makes it hard to take seriously.
However, regardless of those things in the book, it was still very good. There is a lot of representation, including the main character having two moms, which I still am pleasantly surprised by to read. There is also a lot of social justice commentary, and while sometimes it might come across as preachy, when characters do that they get called out as well. As Sanchez says, this is not a how-to manual to organize a workplace, but it still gives ideas, and I wish I read it earlier in my life as it is very inspiring.
In this state of the world as well, it must also be said how good it feels to see the characters win. They might technically be small victories in the grand scheme of things, and some things do get blown way out of proportion, but they're still winning. In a society where rights are being attacked every day, especially trans rights, even fictional wins feel good.
Overall, this is a very good read, albeit heavy sometimes. I am very much looking forward to release day when everyone will be able to enjoy it.
I pretty much flew through this book. It was a little bit hard to get into at first, but very quickly I needed to know what happened next. It is important to know that, given the state of the world right now, it can be a very heavy read sometimes, but it is still hopeful. If you are able to read it right now, it will be worth it.
The main characters are teenagers and neurodivergent, which you are reminded of very often. They're also pretty horrible at communicating, and while it does get better, this was very frustrating at first. A lot of issues Elisha had in the beginning of the book probably could have been sorted in with a conversation with Efraín. Of course, this probably would have meant a shorter book as well.
Personally I also had some issues with an argument in the book. As mentioned in the synopsis, Eli is saving for top surgery, and risking his job means risking his medical treatment. However, this and other things get held against him despite the fact that medical care is necessary. Some things referenced don't even otherwise occur in the book, which makes it hard to take seriously.
However, regardless of those things in the book, it was still very good. There is a lot of representation, including the main character having two moms, which I still am pleasantly surprised by to read. There is also a lot of social justice commentary, and while sometimes it might come across as preachy, when characters do that they get called out as well. As Sanchez says, this is not a how-to manual to organize a workplace, but it still gives ideas, and I wish I read it earlier in my life as it is very inspiring.
In this state of the world as well, it must also be said how good it feels to see the characters win. They might technically be small victories in the grand scheme of things, and some things do get blown way out of proportion, but they're still winning. In a society where rights are being attacked every day, especially trans rights, even fictional wins feel good.
Overall, this is a very good read, albeit heavy sometimes. I am very much looking forward to release day when everyone will be able to enjoy it.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
✧ Genre: YA • Gay Romance
✧ Tropes: Rivals to Lovers • Forced Proximity • Trans MC
✧ Rating: 3.75/5 ★
✧ Spice: None
✧ Summary:
Eli only wanted a summer job at his favourite museum so he could finally save enough money for top surgery, when his coworkers decide to unionize against the awful management. Forced to work closely with his rival Efraín, Eli suddenly has to deal with workplace discrimination and complicated feelings.
✧ Thoughts:
I enjoyed this book overall, but it didn’t fully become a 4-star read for me. It had a lot of heart and some strong moments, but the pacing dragged a bit, especially in the first half. It took me a while to really get invested in the story, and there were moments where the dialogue felt a little repetitive. I found myself much more engaged in the second half.
The characters overall felt very realistic. Eli in particular felt authentic, even when he frustrated me, and I liked seeing how much he grew throughout the story. The side characters and friendships also added a lot of warmth to the book. The representation in this book was the best part. Eli is bi, trans, autistic, jewish, and has two mums, Efraín has ADHD, and the cast overall was really diverse.
Although this is a romance book, I don’t think the main focous was on the love story. It focuses more on Eli’s struggles as a trans/queer/neurodivergent teen, and how he has to deal with the people who don’t treat him well. I was a queer teenager once, and I found the execution of the discrimination very realisitic.
Nonetheless, the romance was cute, even if it wasn’t my absolute favorite part of the story. Eli and Efraín had a fun rivals-to-lovers dynamic, and I liked how their relationship developed. Their chemistry definitely worked, but because both of them struggled so much with communication, it didn’t 100% land for me. More like 80%. Still, there were a lot of sweet moments between them, and I liked how vulnerable and caring they became with each other as the story progressed.
✧ Thanks to the publisher, the author, and NetGalley for providing the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
✧ Publication Date: 26th May, 2026
✧ Tropes: Rivals to Lovers • Forced Proximity • Trans MC
✧ Rating: 3.75/5 ★
✧ Spice: None
✧ Summary:
Eli only wanted a summer job at his favourite museum so he could finally save enough money for top surgery, when his coworkers decide to unionize against the awful management. Forced to work closely with his rival Efraín, Eli suddenly has to deal with workplace discrimination and complicated feelings.
✧ Thoughts:
I enjoyed this book overall, but it didn’t fully become a 4-star read for me. It had a lot of heart and some strong moments, but the pacing dragged a bit, especially in the first half. It took me a while to really get invested in the story, and there were moments where the dialogue felt a little repetitive. I found myself much more engaged in the second half.
The characters overall felt very realistic. Eli in particular felt authentic, even when he frustrated me, and I liked seeing how much he grew throughout the story. The side characters and friendships also added a lot of warmth to the book. The representation in this book was the best part. Eli is bi, trans, autistic, jewish, and has two mums, Efraín has ADHD, and the cast overall was really diverse.
Although this is a romance book, I don’t think the main focous was on the love story. It focuses more on Eli’s struggles as a trans/queer/neurodivergent teen, and how he has to deal with the people who don’t treat him well. I was a queer teenager once, and I found the execution of the discrimination very realisitic.
Nonetheless, the romance was cute, even if it wasn’t my absolute favorite part of the story. Eli and Efraín had a fun rivals-to-lovers dynamic, and I liked how their relationship developed. Their chemistry definitely worked, but because both of them struggled so much with communication, it didn’t 100% land for me. More like 80%. Still, there were a lot of sweet moments between them, and I liked how vulnerable and caring they became with each other as the story progressed.
✧ Thanks to the publisher, the author, and NetGalley for providing the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
✧ Publication Date: 26th May, 2026
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to Harper Audio for the ALC.
Meet Me at the Picket Line is a meaningful young adult story centering a Jewish, transmasc, neurodivergent protagonist, Eli Goldstein, and their summer employment as a guest services associate in a small museum centered around their favorite television show. The story addressed a few key themes and issues really well, the central one being normalized transphobia in the workplace. Sanchez does an amazing job at depicting how self-identified progressives and allies have deeply internalized transphobia and discussing how everyday interactions involve gender performance and identity. Think about it. How often do you default to gendered language in interactions with strangers? What is the impact of receiving constant microaggressions? Now imagine that in a customer service setting at a small non-profit museum, where a fanboy like Eli is excited to be employed and presumes will be a safe working environment. Similarly, the collective organizing effort by museum staff and how it plays out within the plot is engaging. It's a clear demonstration of how community efforts can impact meaningful change.
The main characters, both Eli and Efrain, are neurodivergent teens. Accordingly, there is a significant amount of miscommunication between them. While it helped to emphasize their character growth, the constant reminders about their neurodivergence became repetitive. I have two critiques of the story. First, all of the characters felt older than teenagers. Had they been aged up to new adult (early 20s), they would have felt a bit more realistic--especially when it came to their speeches on politics and their demands for leftist "political pureness." Second, I don't believe this worked well as a romance. Eli and Efrain spend much of the book at odds with one another, then suddenly there is a spark--but it falls flat. There needs to be a progression from rivals/enemies to love interest, and that just did not happen here.
Avi Roque narrates this audiobook, and I love their narration style. However, I had to amp up the reading speed to 2.0x to help compensate for the slow pace of the book and they way it was read.
Meet Me at the Picket Line is a meaningful young adult story centering a Jewish, transmasc, neurodivergent protagonist, Eli Goldstein, and their summer employment as a guest services associate in a small museum centered around their favorite television show. The story addressed a few key themes and issues really well, the central one being normalized transphobia in the workplace. Sanchez does an amazing job at depicting how self-identified progressives and allies have deeply internalized transphobia and discussing how everyday interactions involve gender performance and identity. Think about it. How often do you default to gendered language in interactions with strangers? What is the impact of receiving constant microaggressions? Now imagine that in a customer service setting at a small non-profit museum, where a fanboy like Eli is excited to be employed and presumes will be a safe working environment. Similarly, the collective organizing effort by museum staff and how it plays out within the plot is engaging. It's a clear demonstration of how community efforts can impact meaningful change.
The main characters, both Eli and Efrain, are neurodivergent teens. Accordingly, there is a significant amount of miscommunication between them. While it helped to emphasize their character growth, the constant reminders about their neurodivergence became repetitive. I have two critiques of the story. First, all of the characters felt older than teenagers. Had they been aged up to new adult (early 20s), they would have felt a bit more realistic--especially when it came to their speeches on politics and their demands for leftist "political pureness." Second, I don't believe this worked well as a romance. Eli and Efrain spend much of the book at odds with one another, then suddenly there is a spark--but it falls flat. There needs to be a progression from rivals/enemies to love interest, and that just did not happen here.
Avi Roque narrates this audiobook, and I love their narration style. However, I had to amp up the reading speed to 2.0x to help compensate for the slow pace of the book and they way it was read.
February 17, 2026
Book: Meet Me at the Picket Line
Author: Jasper Sanchez
Genre: Children’s Fiction, YA, LGBTQIA+
Series: Standalone
Setting: Small Town in California
POV: Main Character POV
My Thoughts:
This story revolves around a small group of friends who work at the museum based on the fictional hit show “Nuclear Seasons.” The main character Eli is a transgender teen who is so excited to finally work for the museum based on his favorite show and hopefully save for his top surgery downpayment due at the end of summer. Along with his small group of friends, Eli learns that the workplace within the “Nuclear Seasons” museum is not the most inclusive of individuals. This book revolves around workplace discrimination, understanding one’s rights, and how to be resilient when facing difficult times.
When reading this story, I found it to deviate from the queer narrative of injustice in a way that does not require heavier critical analysis. Sanchez writes so that any individual reading this story can understand both the characters’ personal narrative/journey AND how a workplace can discriminate/not be affirming to its employees.
This story really dove into Eli’s character and his personal journey/queer joy that he finds in the “Nuclear Seasons” tv show. Even though the show itself is fictional, I found that I enjoyed the connections that Sanchez created to be symbolic of Eli’s character and personal journey being transgender.
What I loved most about this story is how Eli’s small group of friends not only promote his growth as an individual but also join together to support him in the negative retribution found by his employers.
What I would have loved to see is more of Efraín’s background/narrative as an individual activist. This was mentioned in the book briefly but I would have loved to see more of this in the story or even a spinoff of his story.
I want to thank HarperCollins Children’s Books, HarperCollins, Jasper Sanchez, and Netgalley for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Author: Jasper Sanchez
Genre: Children’s Fiction, YA, LGBTQIA+
Series: Standalone
Setting: Small Town in California
POV: Main Character POV
My Thoughts:
This story revolves around a small group of friends who work at the museum based on the fictional hit show “Nuclear Seasons.” The main character Eli is a transgender teen who is so excited to finally work for the museum based on his favorite show and hopefully save for his top surgery downpayment due at the end of summer. Along with his small group of friends, Eli learns that the workplace within the “Nuclear Seasons” museum is not the most inclusive of individuals. This book revolves around workplace discrimination, understanding one’s rights, and how to be resilient when facing difficult times.
When reading this story, I found it to deviate from the queer narrative of injustice in a way that does not require heavier critical analysis. Sanchez writes so that any individual reading this story can understand both the characters’ personal narrative/journey AND how a workplace can discriminate/not be affirming to its employees.
This story really dove into Eli’s character and his personal journey/queer joy that he finds in the “Nuclear Seasons” tv show. Even though the show itself is fictional, I found that I enjoyed the connections that Sanchez created to be symbolic of Eli’s character and personal journey being transgender.
What I loved most about this story is how Eli’s small group of friends not only promote his growth as an individual but also join together to support him in the negative retribution found by his employers.
What I would have loved to see is more of Efraín’s background/narrative as an individual activist. This was mentioned in the book briefly but I would have loved to see more of this in the story or even a spinoff of his story.
I want to thank HarperCollins Children’s Books, HarperCollins, Jasper Sanchez, and Netgalley for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
⭐⭐⭐1/2
Listened to audiobook, narrated by Avi Roque.
It genuinely excites me to see a fiction novel tackling unionizing and the fight for labor rights, a subject so important and so underrepresented in fiction. I loved the frank, transparent depiction of how difficult but necessary and rewarding union building is. The novel highlights the costs of individualism, exploring how the urge to isolate and look out only for oneself ultimately hurts all of us, that there are no winners when we're divided. I appreciated that Eli's story doesn't only revolve around his own needs but also illustrates how the people we know and work with every day all have their own unique labor needs that they may also believe no one else cares about - and indeed that we may not always see unless we're proactively looking for them or talking about them. I also appreciated that the wins in the story don't come easy, that the forces that stand against unionizing are presented realistically. There's a depth here that I suspect comes directly from Sanchez's own experiences with the subject, and I found it inspiring.
Admittedly, to me the romance did feel a bit shoehorned in, underdeveloped to the point where I wouldn't really categorize this as a romance myself. I had to recognize that this is one of those books that perhaps falls into the category of romcom only because it wants to tell a story that doesn't fit neatly into any other genre. Honestly, I think Efraín's and Eli's relationship was more interesting in how it encapsulates the struggle of working in solidarity with others we don't always see eye to eye with, and setting aside differences in order to focus on a common goal. That dynamic felt more meaningful to me than the romantic dimension of their relationship, and I wish Sanchez had either leaned into that fully and presented them as friends and allies, or that the romance had been developed more, because as written, it felt out a bit of nowhere to me.
Unfortunately, I do have to say that I think I would have enjoyed this far more if I had read it in print than if I had listened to an audio copy. I appreciate that a transmasc narrator was selected for the role, and I did feel that their voice was fitting for the story - but unfortunately, I found the performance itself distracting. The diction felt choppy, with emphasis landing in unexpected places and pauses that often felt unnatural. Most jarring was that their delivery of dialogue frequently didn't match the corresponding dialogue tags; for example, they'd read a line as an angry shout followed by "he said with quiet disappointment", or something similar. Ultimately I found the narration distracting to the point that it detracted from my enjoyment of the novel, and I'd encourage listeners who are curious about this one to consider picking up the print edition instead.
Overall, an absolutely fantastic premise, and a story that I'm glad exists, despite some places where it could use a bit more polish. I look forward to seeing what Sanchez brings us next!
Thank you to NetGalley and HarperAudio Children’s for providing an arc.
Listened to audiobook, narrated by Avi Roque.
It genuinely excites me to see a fiction novel tackling unionizing and the fight for labor rights, a subject so important and so underrepresented in fiction. I loved the frank, transparent depiction of how difficult but necessary and rewarding union building is. The novel highlights the costs of individualism, exploring how the urge to isolate and look out only for oneself ultimately hurts all of us, that there are no winners when we're divided. I appreciated that Eli's story doesn't only revolve around his own needs but also illustrates how the people we know and work with every day all have their own unique labor needs that they may also believe no one else cares about - and indeed that we may not always see unless we're proactively looking for them or talking about them. I also appreciated that the wins in the story don't come easy, that the forces that stand against unionizing are presented realistically. There's a depth here that I suspect comes directly from Sanchez's own experiences with the subject, and I found it inspiring.
Admittedly, to me the romance did feel a bit shoehorned in, underdeveloped to the point where I wouldn't really categorize this as a romance myself. I had to recognize that this is one of those books that perhaps falls into the category of romcom only because it wants to tell a story that doesn't fit neatly into any other genre. Honestly, I think Efraín's and Eli's relationship was more interesting in how it encapsulates the struggle of working in solidarity with others we don't always see eye to eye with, and setting aside differences in order to focus on a common goal. That dynamic felt more meaningful to me than the romantic dimension of their relationship, and I wish Sanchez had either leaned into that fully and presented them as friends and allies, or that the romance had been developed more, because as written, it felt out a bit of nowhere to me.
Unfortunately, I do have to say that I think I would have enjoyed this far more if I had read it in print than if I had listened to an audio copy. I appreciate that a transmasc narrator was selected for the role, and I did feel that their voice was fitting for the story - but unfortunately, I found the performance itself distracting. The diction felt choppy, with emphasis landing in unexpected places and pauses that often felt unnatural. Most jarring was that their delivery of dialogue frequently didn't match the corresponding dialogue tags; for example, they'd read a line as an angry shout followed by "he said with quiet disappointment", or something similar. Ultimately I found the narration distracting to the point that it detracted from my enjoyment of the novel, and I'd encourage listeners who are curious about this one to consider picking up the print edition instead.
Overall, an absolutely fantastic premise, and a story that I'm glad exists, despite some places where it could use a bit more polish. I look forward to seeing what Sanchez brings us next!
Thank you to NetGalley and HarperAudio Children’s for providing an arc.
June 27, 2026
Meet Me at the Picket Line by Jasper Sanchez is a heartfelt and socially conscious young adult rom-com that blends workplace activism, coming of age struggles, and queer romance into a story that is both timely and emotionally engaging.
One of the novel’s strongest elements is its integration of labor organizing and personal growth. Eli Goldstein’s journey is not only about navigating a difficult summer job, but also about finding his voice within a larger movement that directly impacts his future and well being.
The dynamic between Eli and Efraín adds both tension and charm to the narrative. Their rivalry evolves naturally into something deeper as they are forced to collaborate under pressure, creating a slow build romance grounded in shared struggle and mutual understanding.
The museum setting and unionization storyline provide a strong backdrop that highlights themes of solidarity, fairness, and collective action. These elements give the story a sense of urgency while still allowing space for humor and emotional vulnerability.
Eli’s personal stakes, particularly his goal of funding life changing surgery, add meaningful depth to his choices and reinforce the importance of agency and access within the narrative.
For readers who enjoy YA romance, queer coming of age stories, workplace narratives, and socially driven contemporary fiction, Meet Me at the Picket Line offers a thoughtful, funny, and emotionally resonant reading experience.
One of the novel’s strongest elements is its integration of labor organizing and personal growth. Eli Goldstein’s journey is not only about navigating a difficult summer job, but also about finding his voice within a larger movement that directly impacts his future and well being.
The dynamic between Eli and Efraín adds both tension and charm to the narrative. Their rivalry evolves naturally into something deeper as they are forced to collaborate under pressure, creating a slow build romance grounded in shared struggle and mutual understanding.
The museum setting and unionization storyline provide a strong backdrop that highlights themes of solidarity, fairness, and collective action. These elements give the story a sense of urgency while still allowing space for humor and emotional vulnerability.
Eli’s personal stakes, particularly his goal of funding life changing surgery, add meaningful depth to his choices and reinforce the importance of agency and access within the narrative.
For readers who enjoy YA romance, queer coming of age stories, workplace narratives, and socially driven contemporary fiction, Meet Me at the Picket Line offers a thoughtful, funny, and emotionally resonant reading experience.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
4.5/5
Meet Me at The Picket Line is a wonderful queer young adult story with neurodivergent main characters! The main character, Eli, is an AuDHD bi trans teen boy and the love interest, Efraín, is an ADHD bi teen boy. The ensemble of characters as a whole is very diverse and the main characters are flawed, but very lovable. Eli and Efraín as characters are very well written; their emotional growth as individuals and as a couple throughout the story felt very fulfilling as a reader. The romance between the two boys is very sweet with the two having great chemistry and matching each other's energy well. The plot of this story centering around collective action and unionizing was very engaging, incredibly poignant, and overall very well done. The audio book is beautifully narrated by Avi Roque who brings a lot of emotion and personality to their performance as Eli and the other characters.
What I liked most:
~ Great disability representation (autistic and ADHD MCs)!
~ Trans representation (trans MMC)!
~ Diverse ensemble of characters!
~ Poignant pro-union plot!
~ Wonderful narration!
Break down of my rating:
overall rating: ★★★★★ 4.5/5
♿️ disability rep: ★★★★★ 5/5
💙 romance: ★★★★☆ 4/5
📘plot / writing: ★★★★★ 5/5
Thank you HarperAudio Children’s for providing me with a ARC of this audio book through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Meet Me at The Picket Line is a wonderful queer young adult story with neurodivergent main characters! The main character, Eli, is an AuDHD bi trans teen boy and the love interest, Efraín, is an ADHD bi teen boy. The ensemble of characters as a whole is very diverse and the main characters are flawed, but very lovable. Eli and Efraín as characters are very well written; their emotional growth as individuals and as a couple throughout the story felt very fulfilling as a reader. The romance between the two boys is very sweet with the two having great chemistry and matching each other's energy well. The plot of this story centering around collective action and unionizing was very engaging, incredibly poignant, and overall very well done. The audio book is beautifully narrated by Avi Roque who brings a lot of emotion and personality to their performance as Eli and the other characters.
What I liked most:
~ Great disability representation (autistic and ADHD MCs)!
~ Trans representation (trans MMC)!
~ Diverse ensemble of characters!
~ Poignant pro-union plot!
~ Wonderful narration!
Break down of my rating:
overall rating: ★★★★★ 4.5/5
♿️ disability rep: ★★★★★ 5/5
💙 romance: ★★★★☆ 4/5
📘plot / writing: ★★★★★ 5/5
Thank you HarperAudio Children’s for providing me with a ARC of this audio book through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
It doesn't escape me that I happened to pick up this ARC whilst in the midst of negotiating my own union contract at work, and frankly, I don't think that this could have come at a better time. Though fictional, I drew inspiration from Eli and Efrain as they navigated a world not designed with them in mind. Existing as a queer, neurodivergent person is difficult enough, but I can't imagine adding the stress of developing a union as a teenager. Standing up for your rights and the rights of others is an important message in "Meet Me at the Picket Line", with the romance being a subplot, allowing the characters to shine through in their own ways.
While not the most enthralling book I've read this year, I still think that Sanchez's writing made for an interesting plot. My one true gripe is that, at times, both Eli and Efrain got on my nerves, which I think has more to do with the fact that I think the same way they do, thanks to my neurodivergency, and then it got me wondering if I also get on people's nerves like that! In any case, I did enjoy the book and I think I have some patrons who will also enjoy reading this when it hits the shelves.
While not the most enthralling book I've read this year, I still think that Sanchez's writing made for an interesting plot. My one true gripe is that, at times, both Eli and Efrain got on my nerves, which I think has more to do with the fact that I think the same way they do, thanks to my neurodivergency, and then it got me wondering if I also get on people's nerves like that! In any case, I did enjoy the book and I think I have some patrons who will also enjoy reading this when it hits the shelves.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
There is so much good to say about this book. It comes at a time where so many rights for trans youth are being stripped away and it took such care with Eli and gave such a clear voice to some of the struggles trans and gender diverse youth face on a daily basis. We really get a sense of how distressing the little moments can be, and how they add up to so much more. I think this story is one that really captures how we can show up and support those around us.
I especially loved the neurodivergent representation in this book and how that can look vastly different in each person. I though the author took such care with there explorations and explanations of Eli and other character's thoughts. I enjoyed watching the dynamics between Eli and his sister and Eli and his friends.
Ultimately I think this is a beautiful story about realizing who you have supporting you and learning not to be an island. It explored so many things well! I hope this book finds it ways into so many readers hands! Thank you to the publisher for providing an eARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I especially loved the neurodivergent representation in this book and how that can look vastly different in each person. I though the author took such care with there explorations and explanations of Eli and other character's thoughts. I enjoyed watching the dynamics between Eli and his sister and Eli and his friends.
Ultimately I think this is a beautiful story about realizing who you have supporting you and learning not to be an island. It explored so many things well! I hope this book finds it ways into so many readers hands! Thank you to the publisher for providing an eARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
4 stars
Prospective readers who love YA, especially when it's full of well executed intersectional representation, will find so much to love about this book.
Eli is working at a new summer job with one goal in mind: saving for top surgery. When he shows up with a button that reveals his pronouns, he runs into a managerial road block. What better way to proceed than by unionizing?
A lot happens in this novel, but it can happen successfully because, for a YA novel, it's lengthy. There's time and space to explore Eli's identities, his growing relationship with Efrain, challenges that are unfortunately common in our capitalist nightmare, some unexpected empathy, and some expected bigotry and transphobia. Though one must invest some time in this novel, the benefit is that none of these throughlines feel underdeveloped or disrespectful.
This is my first book by this author, and I enjoyed the experience. I'll recommend it to my students and look forward to whatever Sanchez writes next!
*Special thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins for this arc and alc, which I received in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
Prospective readers who love YA, especially when it's full of well executed intersectional representation, will find so much to love about this book.
Eli is working at a new summer job with one goal in mind: saving for top surgery. When he shows up with a button that reveals his pronouns, he runs into a managerial road block. What better way to proceed than by unionizing?
A lot happens in this novel, but it can happen successfully because, for a YA novel, it's lengthy. There's time and space to explore Eli's identities, his growing relationship with Efrain, challenges that are unfortunately common in our capitalist nightmare, some unexpected empathy, and some expected bigotry and transphobia. Though one must invest some time in this novel, the benefit is that none of these throughlines feel underdeveloped or disrespectful.
This is my first book by this author, and I enjoyed the experience. I'll recommend it to my students and look forward to whatever Sanchez writes next!
*Special thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins for this arc and alc, which I received in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
It’s trans teen Eli’s dream summer job. He’s a longtime fan of the cult classic TV series Nuclear Seasons Experience which was filmed in his hometown, and now he’s going to be on staff at the museum in the house that was the setting of the show. Even better, his sister and his long-time acquaintance/friend/crush, Efraín, is working there, too. Reality bites when working conditions are less than ideal. Customer service is tough enough without being forbidden to wear pronoun pins and coping with micro-aggressions. Plus, Eli and his friends notice that other staff have difficulties; one person’s physical limitations would be better served by a stool at their workstation, another could meet their medical need for increased fluid intake by being allowed to carry a water bottle. So Eli and Efraím decide to form a union - and what could go wrong? Labor just meets romance! Earc from Edelweiss.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Oof this was heavy. Yes there were content warnings at the start of the book but I was still not quite prepared for it all.
I really enjoyed reading this. I think the author did a good job of establishing both internal and external stakes, and of showing how much of an emotional battle unionizing truly even with the creative liberties Sanchez took in its betrayal. I was just not as interested in the romance between Eli and Efrain as I was Eli's character struggles but I still thought they were very cute.
The audiobook narrator added so much life to the narration that I just had no choice but to listen to it all in one go!
Thank you Netgalley and Harper Collins for the alc in exchange for an honest review
I really enjoyed reading this. I think the author did a good job of establishing both internal and external stakes, and of showing how much of an emotional battle unionizing truly even with the creative liberties Sanchez took in its betrayal. I was just not as interested in the romance between Eli and Efrain as I was Eli's character struggles but I still thought they were very cute.
The audiobook narrator added so much life to the narration that I just had no choice but to listen to it all in one go!
Thank you Netgalley and Harper Collins for the alc in exchange for an honest review
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
YA story with trans and neurodivergent protagonist with a focus on unionizing narrated by Avi Roque is a combination that is irresistible. I really adored how much heart and vulnerability is in this. It's a rare setting where the main plotisnt just about young adult issues but about workplace dynamics shared with adults. I adored Eli's group of queer and neurodivergent teens working their summer jobs at a local pop culture museum and learning how to unionize, and discovering all the ways they aren't alone. Avi Roque 's narration of yet another beautiful transmasc story is flawless and full nuance and empathy. Not a lot of YA, even queer YA is refreshing these days but this one really was. I just wish it was edited to be much tighter. Thanks to Netgalley for the audiobook ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thanks to Netgalley & the publisher for this ARC!
I'm gonna be so real, as someone who isnt american, from a country that has actual labor laws everytime I hear about situations like this book is about I feel like I'm going insane for a little bit, like HOW can you treat people this horrible???
This book definitely got me very emotional, I loved the whole group of main characters and all the different representation in this book was amazing.
This was definitely a book full of heavier topics but it was all done really well in a way that just kept me very engaged and wanting to keep reading.
Very good book, lots of important and amazing representation, please america get your shit together.
I'm gonna be so real, as someone who isnt american, from a country that has actual labor laws everytime I hear about situations like this book is about I feel like I'm going insane for a little bit, like HOW can you treat people this horrible???
This book definitely got me very emotional, I loved the whole group of main characters and all the different representation in this book was amazing.
This was definitely a book full of heavier topics but it was all done really well in a way that just kept me very engaged and wanting to keep reading.
Very good book, lots of important and amazing representation, please america get your shit together.
May 22, 2026
Jasper Sanchez delivers another intelligent, politically engaged YA novel with a cast of diverse characters who bring necessary diversity to the space. Our trans, neurodivergent MC, Eli, is excited about his summer job at a local museum, so he can save up money for top surgery. After "unnatural hair colors" and pronoun pins spark backlash from the museum leadership, Eli and his coworkers band together to unionize. This was a delightful coming-of-age rom-com with lots of heart, advocacy, and allyship. The message of solidarity and advocacy from youth groups is essential.
Sincere thanks to NetGalley and HarperAudio Children’s for an advanced listener copy in exchange for an honest review.
Sincere thanks to NetGalley and HarperAudio Children’s for an advanced listener copy in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
What a fantastic book! The characters were so well drawn, Elisha’s struggles and motivations completely understandable, even if you might not agree with them, I loved how we see Elisha’s opinion of Efrain change due to them finally give each other a chance.
All the supporting characters too were so well written.
And of course the plot is so important right now and I wish everyone would read this book so they can empathize with all the kids (and adults) like Elisha and Efrain and everyone else who suffer from discrimination.
I didn’t know anything about this book but I saw it was Avi Roque narrating and requested immediately on netgalley and of course it was outstanding!
All the supporting characters too were so well written.
And of course the plot is so important right now and I wish everyone would read this book so they can empathize with all the kids (and adults) like Elisha and Efrain and everyone else who suffer from discrimination.
I didn’t know anything about this book but I saw it was Avi Roque narrating and requested immediately on netgalley and of course it was outstanding!
June 25, 2026
Fabulous YA Contemporary read with a really fun and witty neurodiverse cast and full of excellent LGBTQIAP+ representation. Author Jasper Sanchez combines so many things into this wonderful, relatable, easy-to-read tale about a teenager's summer job working at a museum dedicated to his favorite TV show. It's about feeling safe at work and getting accommodations for what you need (like a water bottle when giving a walking tour), and getting the support from friends you make along the way. Sprinkled in are things like a supportive family and a clean YA enemies-to-dating which takes our narrator by surprise. It's about feeling seen, in so many ways.
Highly recommended YA reading!
Highly recommended YA reading!
January 28, 2026
First Thank you for allowing me the chance to read the arc and review this book.
Second, this book was well written as well as the plot was wonderful. I love the idea of speaking up and fighting for yourself and rights. I know right now in the climate we are in and we see this live it seems to be told differently but we need the truth. We need our voices heard.
The love story was second and I felt that was a good way to showcase it. I enjoyed the characters and their relationships within the story.
This is my first for this author and won’t be my last.
Second, this book was well written as well as the plot was wonderful. I love the idea of speaking up and fighting for yourself and rights. I know right now in the climate we are in and we see this live it seems to be told differently but we need the truth. We need our voices heard.
The love story was second and I felt that was a good way to showcase it. I enjoyed the characters and their relationships within the story.
This is my first for this author and won’t be my last.
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