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A Boy Worth Knowing
Ghosts can’t seem to keep their opinions to themselves. Seventeen-year-old Nate Shaw should know; he’s been talking to them since he was twelve. But they aren’t the only ones making his high school years a living hell. All Nate wants is to keep his secret and keep his head down until he can graduate. That is, until the new boy, James Powell, takes a seat next to him in homeroom. James not only notices him, he manages to work his way into Nate’s life. But James has issues of his own. Between dead grandmothers and living aunts, Nate has to navigate the fact that he’s falling in love with his only friend, all while getting advice from the most unusual places. Ghosts, bullies, first it’s a lot to deal with when you’re just trying to survive senior year.
182 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 14, 2017
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 461 reviews
November 14, 2017
** ONE OF MY VERY FAVORITE BOOKS OF THE YEAR! **
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I can say without a hint of hesitation that I truly loved this YA story and it was everything that I'd hoped it might be after reading the blurb.
Nate's life was lonely, as he had no friends, other than his loving, supportive aunt and his dearly-departed grandmother, but he tried his best to not let that bring him down.
James' life was full of turmoil and grief over the death of his beloved brother, after becoming heavily involved with drugs, but James was good at hiding his emotions and pretending that he was okay, when he truly wasn't.
I adored how James immediately hit it off with Nate, in spite of the fact that no one else in their high school would so much as talk to Nate. James didn't have time for their petty bullshit, instead he only saw that Nate was a great guy. A boy worth knowing. And maybe even loving.
The story was told from Nate's point of view and I enjoyed being inside his slightly-neurotic head, as he met the new boy in school and they quickly became best friends, nearly inseparable.
The conflict in the story mostly surrounded Nate's growing feelings for James and James working his way through his feelings surrounding his brother's recent death.
But Nate had a bit of help, in the form of a couple of ghosts. Yep, you heard me right. Ghosts.
Throughout the book, Nate was visited repeatedly by his loving, dead Gran, who also had the ability to sense ghosts, an ability which runs in his family. She helped Nate deal with the many hardships in his life and not feel quite so isolated, just as any grandmother worth her salt would.
Nate was also visited by David, the ghost of James' dead brother, who helped Nate be the solid support that James needed to work through his anger and grief.
And the ghosts were every bit as entertaining as I'd dare dream they might be. They added a unique feel to the story that really made it a complete winner for me.
There was angst and drama, but the author kept both down to acceptable, enjoyable levels, for which I was extremely grateful.
As far as steam goes, this was a total slow burn attraction story, as best friends became boyfriends, but the lovers aspect wasn't dwelled upon too (hot and) heavily just quite yet. There were, however, plenty of cuddly, intimate moments between our two MC's, which I thoroughly enjoyed.
I adored the graduation ending scene, which left us with the boys graduating high school, about to go off to college together to continue their lives. It left them in a good place, which made me pretty darn happy.
Yes, this was your typical Young Adult read, with bitchy, self-important, shallow cheerleaders and high school bullies, but it also felt like so much more.
The story was both fun and engaging, with Nate's reluctant hope for a life better than his current one front and center for much of the story, so I really can't recommend this great 4.5 star read highly enough.
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My ARC copy of the story was provided by the publisher in exchange for a fair, unbiased review.
August 19, 2018
I loved the idea and the cover but the book was silly unfortunately 💔!!
March 23, 2017
I don't read as much Y/A adult as I used to, because with me getting older, it gets harder and harder to identify with the MC's. But every now and then, a Y/A book comes along that blows my mind....which is exactly what this book did.
This story is about Nate and James...
Nate is 17 years old and quite the loner. Not because he wants to be, but because he doesn't have any friends. Everyone at school sees him as some sort of freak, because they don't understand Nate. Nate only has two people in his life who care about him and with whom he can talk. His Aunt Susan, who took him in, after his mom kicked him out, and his departed Nana. That's right....Nate can see and speak to ghosts...
I loved Nate from the very first page. He was so sweet and so lonely and my heart broke for him.
Nate has been able to talk to ghosts since he was 12 years old. His Nana, being able to do the same thing, used to help him when she was still alive and she is still trying to be there for him after death. Having been caught talking to himself when he was younger has earned him the title of the school freak.
Always alone. Always the freak no one wanted to get close to. My chest was so tight I couldn't breath.
But things are about to change when a new boy comes to town.
James, also 17 takes an immediate liking to Nate. They become fast friends and Nate is very happy, even tough he believes this friendship will only be temporary.
Things aren't easy for the both of them though. James is grieving the recent loss of his older brother David and Nate doesn't know how to come clean, about the fact that David is right there with them....
So Nate does his best to ignore David and tries to just focus on his friendship with James. Things get even harder, when his feelings grow into something more. He tries to not let his feelings show. He is pretty sure that James is not into boys and he doesn't want to lose his one and only friend.
There were definitely a few tears, when reading about Nate's unrequited love. Thankfully James comes to his senses...and I also got to read about their growinglove .. These boys were so sweet together. There isn't much steam in this book, which considerin g their age, is very understandable.
I really enjoyed this Y/A story. It was sweet, funny and at times very sad.... I am also a big sucker for ghost stories, so they made this book all the more awesome for me.
This review has been posted on Dirty Books Obsession
June 8, 2023
Re-read May 2023
The audio is pretty good.
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What a lovely story this was! I was immediately enamored with Nate. He was such a sweet soul, who happened to have an ability that made him different. And different in high school calls for trouble. And lack of friends. And loneliness.
Nate is 17 years old and can see and talk to ghosts. He has regular talks with his deceased Nana, and waves to the grumpy, naked guy on the cemetary every day. He lives with his aunt after his mother kicked him out because she couldn't deal with his ability. Nate is an upbeat guy, but he's also very lonely.
That is until James moves into town. James befriends Nate at school immediately. Nate thinks James is just too good to be true, but he finds out James is just really nice and the two become fast friends.
But Nate just knows James won't stay his friend if he ever finds out what Nate can do. Especially when James comes with his own ghost stuck to him. It's not like Nate can really ignore that..
I absolutely loved these guys. It was such a pleasure to be in Nate's head. He was sweet, but sad and I just wanted to hug him. I loved it when James became his friend and especially when they became more than friends.
This is YA, but I was very happy to find out that these young guys do explore their sexual feelings for each other. In some YA books it's like they suddenly have no sexual thoughts. But even though we don't get the full on detailed naked sexy times (no fade to black either, these guys are just not ready for the real thing yet), we do get make out sessions and frotting. It was sweet, and wonderfully appropriate for this book.
Such a sweet story, and I loved it.
The audio is pretty good.
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What a lovely story this was! I was immediately enamored with Nate. He was such a sweet soul, who happened to have an ability that made him different. And different in high school calls for trouble. And lack of friends. And loneliness.
Nate is 17 years old and can see and talk to ghosts. He has regular talks with his deceased Nana, and waves to the grumpy, naked guy on the cemetary every day. He lives with his aunt after his mother kicked him out because she couldn't deal with his ability. Nate is an upbeat guy, but he's also very lonely.
That is until James moves into town. James befriends Nate at school immediately. Nate thinks James is just too good to be true, but he finds out James is just really nice and the two become fast friends.
But Nate just knows James won't stay his friend if he ever finds out what Nate can do. Especially when James comes with his own ghost stuck to him. It's not like Nate can really ignore that..
I absolutely loved these guys. It was such a pleasure to be in Nate's head. He was sweet, but sad and I just wanted to hug him. I loved it when James became his friend and especially when they became more than friends.
This is YA, but I was very happy to find out that these young guys do explore their sexual feelings for each other. In some YA books it's like they suddenly have no sexual thoughts. But even though we don't get the full on detailed naked sexy times (no fade to black either, these guys are just not ready for the real thing yet), we do get make out sessions and frotting. It was sweet, and wonderfully appropriate for this book.
Such a sweet story, and I loved it.
December 18, 2018
I enjoyed this young adult audiobook debut by Jennifer Cosgrove, but I couldn't help but think that A Boy Worth Knowing could have been something more.
I don't read that much YA, and this book reminded me of why. I found the MCs to be a bit immature for high school seniors, and a bit too innocent. However, I thought the story was, in turns, both sweet and heart-breaking.
I liked the ghost aspect, but I think Jennifer Cosgrove could have taken it even further. It was strange how people didn't ask him to talk to the dead more or do more stuff with his abilities. I was hoping for a more intriguing adventure or mystery with the paranormal stuff, but it all ended up being very hum-drum.
The story was cute, but a bit... boring? Nothing much happened. I liked it at first, but my attention waned a bit as the story went on. Also, the depiction of high school seemed very "90s movie" and not very realistic, IMO.
I enjoyed the narration from Lawrence T. Lewis, though his voice for James' brother was a bit "valley-boy"-ish. I'll definitely listen to him in the future.
Overall, a pleasant listen, but the audiobook did not live up to my (high) expectations.
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January 10, 2019
two guys falling for each other? one is able to see and talk to ghosts? it's absolutely adorable? it has a gay main character and a bisexual love interest? yes, what do you need more? (also there's basically no plot, it's pure fluff)
June 14, 2018
This was such a great surprise!
I am not much into paranormal reads but I have to say, I am so glad I gave this a go because this was incredibly good!
A Boy Worth Knowing has that special vibe of "couldn't stop reading it".
I think the author has approached the paranormal subject in a very sensitive and careful way. Instead of making it sinister and creepy, she opted for light and fun and it worked so well.
Both characters were adorable.
The angst was just perfect.
My niggle: Natan's mother was a loose end. I am not a fan of the insta trope. Too big change of heart suddenly.
I am not much into paranormal reads but I have to say, I am so glad I gave this a go because this was incredibly good!
A Boy Worth Knowing has that special vibe of "couldn't stop reading it".
I think the author has approached the paranormal subject in a very sensitive and careful way. Instead of making it sinister and creepy, she opted for light and fun and it worked so well.
Both characters were adorable.
The angst was just perfect.
My niggle: Natan's mother was a loose end. I am not a fan of the insta trope. Too big change of heart suddenly.
March 21, 2017
Pocas cosas me despiertan más ternura que un buen YA. Y este me ha despertado mucha. Tenemos todos los estereotipos de lo High School de USA, estereotipos que encajan con una realidad, tenemos un toque paranormal con fantasmas incluidos, y tenemos una pareja de protagonistas que encaran como pueden su adolescencia, que se sienten solos, que están solos, que se hacen amigos y que se enamoran.
Very cute, muchos sentimientos. Qué emocionante y qué difícil es ser adolescente. Y qué horrible es estar solo y qué bonito cuando dejas de estarlo.
Very cute, muchos sentimientos. Qué emocionante y qué difícil es ser adolescente. Y qué horrible es estar solo y qué bonito cuando dejas de estarlo.
March 26, 2017
This one's not only worth reading...
But I'm pretty sure at some point I will be doing a re-read on this.
I honestly only have one big issue with this book and that's the title because there's not one boy worth knowing in this book there's 2. There's funny, smart, sweet, adorable, isolated Nate and then there's James. Handsome, loyal, not afraid to think for himself, James.
Now before I go any further let's talk about the title...truthfully the title is perfect, but you'll have to read the book to find out why...I'm not spoiling. Also I probably wouldn't have read this book so soon if it wasn't for my friend Todd's review. Seriously it's an awesome review, check it out right here...Todd's Awesome Review
I think a lot of us remember what it's like to be a teenager and I'll be one of the first to admit. It's not easy and for me it often wasn't fun and I have no desire to repeat it. But imagine being a teenager able to do something that pretty much anyone else can't...like, I don't know maybe see and talk to dead people. Seriously, life would suck.
Nate's been on his own for a long time so when someone like James moves to town he doesn't expect him to want to friends much less anything else with the school pariah, but James likes what he sees in Nate and he's not afraid to follow his instincts.
There's so much about this story that's simply awesome. James and Nate together are wonderful. I loved them both and truly couldn't imaging how any mother wouldn't.
'A Boy Worth Knowing' is a young adult story and as such the steam and sexy times are kept appropriate for that age level but this is not a story that lacks for depth of emotions by any means and while the central part of the plot may involve a paranormal element the high school setting and the people in it are very reflective of the real world that we all live in.
Every class has it's Penny, a queen bee who rules not because of their merits or how deserving they are but because of their ability to intimidate and manipulate. Ironically this is the part of the story that had merit above all else of me. The part of the story that in the end told us that people like words only have as much power as we give them.
'A Boy Worth Knowing' is a story worth reading and not just for young adults. My young adult days are so far behind me that Nate and James could have easily been my grandchildren and if they were I would have wanted them to read this story. It's an incredibly well written work of fiction that holds a very real message about believing in yourself and being true to who you are and trusting that your real friends are the ones who walk in while everyone else is walking out.
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An ARC of 'A Boy Worth Knowing' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
But I'm pretty sure at some point I will be doing a re-read on this.
I honestly only have one big issue with this book and that's the title because there's not one boy worth knowing in this book there's 2. There's funny, smart, sweet, adorable, isolated Nate and then there's James. Handsome, loyal, not afraid to think for himself, James.
Now before I go any further let's talk about the title...truthfully the title is perfect, but you'll have to read the book to find out why...I'm not spoiling. Also I probably wouldn't have read this book so soon if it wasn't for my friend Todd's review. Seriously it's an awesome review, check it out right here...Todd's Awesome Review
I think a lot of us remember what it's like to be a teenager and I'll be one of the first to admit. It's not easy and for me it often wasn't fun and I have no desire to repeat it. But imagine being a teenager able to do something that pretty much anyone else can't...like, I don't know maybe see and talk to dead people. Seriously, life would suck.
Nate's been on his own for a long time so when someone like James moves to town he doesn't expect him to want to friends much less anything else with the school pariah, but James likes what he sees in Nate and he's not afraid to follow his instincts.
There's so much about this story that's simply awesome. James and Nate together are wonderful. I loved them both and truly couldn't imaging how any mother wouldn't.
'A Boy Worth Knowing' is a young adult story and as such the steam and sexy times are kept appropriate for that age level but this is not a story that lacks for depth of emotions by any means and while the central part of the plot may involve a paranormal element the high school setting and the people in it are very reflective of the real world that we all live in.
Every class has it's Penny, a queen bee who rules not because of their merits or how deserving they are but because of their ability to intimidate and manipulate. Ironically this is the part of the story that had merit above all else of me. The part of the story that in the end told us that people like words only have as much power as we give them.
'A Boy Worth Knowing' is a story worth reading and not just for young adults. My young adult days are so far behind me that Nate and James could have easily been my grandchildren and if they were I would have wanted them to read this story. It's an incredibly well written work of fiction that holds a very real message about believing in yourself and being true to who you are and trusting that your real friends are the ones who walk in while everyone else is walking out.
********************
An ARC of 'A Boy Worth Knowing' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
April 27, 2022
You can always tell something’s up when I reach for a YA book! 🙈
This time, I needed a change of pace after a string of angst-filled, depressing reads, and A Boy Worth Knowing offered just that. It was an adorable and lighthearted story, and even if ultimately, it didn’t have much substance, I really enjoyed the pining and the innocent, harmless teenage drama.
This time, I needed a change of pace after a string of angst-filled, depressing reads, and A Boy Worth Knowing offered just that. It was an adorable and lighthearted story, and even if ultimately, it didn’t have much substance, I really enjoyed the pining and the innocent, harmless teenage drama.
March 25, 2017
4.5 stars. Sweet, funny and real, I adored it! <3
November 30, 2018
I gradually fell out of love with this as it went along, until I was sorely tempted to DNF @ 84%. Initially I liked 17-year old Nate's narrative voice -- he was smart without being overly snarky. I've read so many YA novels that try too hard, ending up with a 1st person narration that's strident and obnoxious.
What didn't ring true here was Nate's age; he's a high school senior, but came across to me as a 14- or 15-year old. But the deal-killer was the utterly cliché nature of the high school drama. Apparently every American high school is equipped with a maniacally evil beautiful blonde sociopath, and Nate's school was no exception. I cannot stand this stereotype of an all-powerful teenage girl, as evil as she is beautiful, spewing venom and hatred as she effortlessly dominates a school comprised of hundreds of students, all of whom cringe and cower before her. I mean seriously -- WTF? I went to an American high school myself, and believe me, life was not like that.
I'm going to go with 3 stars, but I really wasn't happy with the second half of the book. This is a debut novel, and I hope that for her next book the author leaves the clichés and tired stereotypes behind. As far as high school YA goes, I much preferred When It All Falls Down by Tanya Chris, which features a more mature MC, and Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda.
What didn't ring true here was Nate's age; he's a high school senior, but came across to me as a 14- or 15-year old. But the deal-killer was the utterly cliché nature of the high school drama. Apparently every American high school is equipped with a maniacally evil beautiful blonde sociopath, and Nate's school was no exception. I cannot stand this stereotype of an all-powerful teenage girl, as evil as she is beautiful, spewing venom and hatred as she effortlessly dominates a school comprised of hundreds of students, all of whom cringe and cower before her. I mean seriously -- WTF? I went to an American high school myself, and believe me, life was not like that.
I'm going to go with 3 stars, but I really wasn't happy with the second half of the book. This is a debut novel, and I hope that for her next book the author leaves the clichés and tired stereotypes behind. As far as high school YA goes, I much preferred When It All Falls Down by Tanya Chris, which features a more mature MC, and Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda.
September 12, 2021
3-3.5 Bummed Stars
Did you hear that? My SQUEEL of excitement when starting this book? I’m sure you did because it was hella loud. I was freakin’ pumped for this book… so pumped I paid FULL price. *yowza* This had ALL the elements for a potential bookgasm.
Coming of Age/Young Adult? Check
Trouble on the home front? Check
Bullies? Check
Ghosts? Check
So Why?? Why did I not connect with it?
Here is why…NOTHING HAPPENED! Seriously, I kept reading for the promise of greatness so many reviewers mentioned. While reading this book, I couldn’t help imagining I was driving on I-10 which is a long ass interstate with zilch. zero, nada for like a million miles. At 53% I was beginning to think I was a masochist for continuing to read it.
Once the initial information about each MC was divulged, it was good ol’ status quo until 64% *GASP* At 64% when there was a shakeup in the monotony, I believe I screamed "fucking finally" while sitting on the beach. *Shrug*
Here is the quick and dirty of the book: Nate is an openly gay 17 year old senior that sees ghosts. He lives with his Aunt because his mom can’t handle his gift. Nate is bullied at school and besides his aunt and dead Nana, completely alone until James shows up. James is also a senior and lost his brother David in an accident. (I’m sure you can make the connection that Nate sees David) James is openly bisexual and dealing with the aftermath of losing his brother.
Now, this did have the typical high school “drama” of mean girls and their henchmen. Nothing overly angsty happened. I could feel the hurt when Nate truly started caring for James and the feelings seemed unrequited. I remember it feeling like the end of the world and it was depicted like that for Nate. I didn’t understand the wait for them getting together though. James knew Nate was gay and didn’t make a move. Instead, he did a 180 and got himself a mean girl. WTF? James didn’t even show interest until very late in the book. Even Aunt Sandy was losing it: ”I just want to say I am very happy you’ve figured yourselves out. Mostly for my own sanity. I mean, seriously.” All I could think was PREACH IT SISTA!
Once they finally figured which end was up (no pun intended there. at. all), Nate and James were cute together. They had each other’s backs during the mild angst and were figuring their way through friendship, dating, boyfriends, and the physical side of their relationship.
Gaaaahhhh, it’s fine.
It wasn’t terrible. I just had such high expectations and I felt just Mehhhh.
Did you hear that? My SQUEEL of excitement when starting this book? I’m sure you did because it was hella loud. I was freakin’ pumped for this book… so pumped I paid FULL price. *yowza* This had ALL the elements for a potential bookgasm.
Coming of Age/Young Adult? Check
Trouble on the home front? Check
Bullies? Check
Ghosts? Check
So Why?? Why did I not connect with it?
Here is why…NOTHING HAPPENED! Seriously, I kept reading for the promise of greatness so many reviewers mentioned. While reading this book, I couldn’t help imagining I was driving on I-10 which is a long ass interstate with zilch. zero, nada for like a million miles. At 53% I was beginning to think I was a masochist for continuing to read it.
Once the initial information about each MC was divulged, it was good ol’ status quo until 64% *GASP* At 64% when there was a shakeup in the monotony, I believe I screamed "fucking finally" while sitting on the beach. *Shrug*
Here is the quick and dirty of the book: Nate is an openly gay 17 year old senior that sees ghosts. He lives with his Aunt because his mom can’t handle his gift. Nate is bullied at school and besides his aunt and dead Nana, completely alone until James shows up. James is also a senior and lost his brother David in an accident. (I’m sure you can make the connection that Nate sees David) James is openly bisexual and dealing with the aftermath of losing his brother.
Now, this did have the typical high school “drama” of mean girls and their henchmen. Nothing overly angsty happened. I could feel the hurt when Nate truly started caring for James and the feelings seemed unrequited. I remember it feeling like the end of the world and it was depicted like that for Nate. I didn’t understand the wait for them getting together though. James knew Nate was gay and didn’t make a move. Instead, he did a 180 and got himself a mean girl. WTF? James didn’t even show interest until very late in the book. Even Aunt Sandy was losing it: ”I just want to say I am very happy you’ve figured yourselves out. Mostly for my own sanity. I mean, seriously.” All I could think was PREACH IT SISTA!
Once they finally figured which end was up (no pun intended there. at. all), Nate and James were cute together. They had each other’s backs during the mild angst and were figuring their way through friendship, dating, boyfriends, and the physical side of their relationship.
Gaaaahhhh, it’s fine.
It wasn’t terrible. I just had such high expectations and I felt just Mehhhh.
May 28, 2018
I pretty much hated this book for a million reasons, here are a few of them:
1. mc did not act his age and he was just not likable
2. love interest was boring and I didn't really like him either
3. cliché after cliché, plus I really hope people don't have high schools like this
4. hello editor were you as bored as me is that why you missed the million timeline mistakes. 2 weeks turned into a month, months turned into weeks. and it happened multiple times during the book.
5. the family stuff was just not believable, I mean you go to school with your sister but you are only aloud to talk to her on the bus home? you cant hang out on weekends? you never see her? plus your mom kicked you out and social services didn't get involved? I mean I get the aunt stepped in but still you cant kick out your underage children its against the law.
6. also the ghost stuff is never explained and its not a focus of the story at all, so that was a let down
1. mc did not act his age and he was just not likable
2. love interest was boring and I didn't really like him either
3. cliché after cliché, plus I really hope people don't have high schools like this
4. hello editor were you as bored as me is that why you missed the million timeline mistakes. 2 weeks turned into a month, months turned into weeks. and it happened multiple times during the book.
5. the family stuff was just not believable, I mean you go to school with your sister but you are only aloud to talk to her on the bus home? you cant hang out on weekends? you never see her? plus your mom kicked you out and social services didn't get involved? I mean I get the aunt stepped in but still you cant kick out your underage children its against the law.
6. also the ghost stuff is never explained and its not a focus of the story at all, so that was a let down
February 11, 2019
I loved this! My first book by this author! I love when I read a new author and the book is good. I thought this was a sweet story of young love (It's YA). I really enjoyed Nate's voice, and I loved how he and James met. They were so sweet together. It was interesting how Nate could see and talk to ghost but ironically it never felt like it was paranormal, just an everyday boy who happened to be able to talk to ghosts. I also loved Nate's aunt Sarah she was too cool. I know this review is all over the place but all you need to know is that I loved the book, lol.
March 26, 2017
This is a sweet YA romance with charming characters. I wanted to love this story, and for the most part, I did enjoy it a lot, but... Complaints aside, the story is lovely and enjoyable, and I’m glad that I read it.
May 8, 2019
Oh, I absolutely adored this! It was cute and adorable and sweet and just a fun story all around.
Nate is a 17 year old high school senior who just so happens to see and be able to talk to ghosts. When one of the popular girls heard him talking to one years ago (and thus seeming to talk to himself) she labeled him crazy and a freak and that spread around school to the point where he's ostracized and made fun of whenever they feel like it or get the chance.
Nate has been on his own, with only his aunt, really, for company - unless you count his dead Nana who shows up from time to time - and he's lonely. He sees his 15 year old sister Sarah from time to time at school, but she still lives at home with their mom, who kicked Nate out a few years back because of his ability. It scared her and so she tried to shove away that which she did not understand. Making Nate even lonelier in the process.
His Aunt Susan is the only one who stood up for him. If it weren't for her, his own mother would have left him on the streets. Gah.
But then in early October of his senior year, in walks James, a cute, handsome boy who Nate immediately takes a shine to - and has a hopeless crush on - and who doesn't treat Nate like a freak, even after others tell him the rumors. He sees Nate for who he is, not what is talked about.
James has his own pain, as he lost his brother sometime earlier that year and is still grieving. But Nate has a problem, because said dead brother keeps hanging around James, and soon enough he talks to Nate, even though James isn't ready to yet. It causes some problems.
And they start out as friends, and with Nate too scared to put himself out there and tell James how he feels, it takes awhile for them together. But oh when they do it is so sweet and adorable. James is great to Nate and he is Nate's first everything so Nate is a blushing, nervous wreck a lot of the time. But James is there to comfort him and it is wonderful.
I'm super happy I didn't waste 5 bucks on this, because it was SO worth it. I can't believe this story is below 200 pages too, because the author packs so much story into all of it and I didn't feel like it wasn't long enough and it was just the perfect length for the story the author was telling.
I loved this story and I loved that Nate got his happy ending in the end, and got to be happy after years of being so miserable. Two massive thumbs up from me! <333
Nate is a 17 year old high school senior who just so happens to see and be able to talk to ghosts. When one of the popular girls heard him talking to one years ago (and thus seeming to talk to himself) she labeled him crazy and a freak and that spread around school to the point where he's ostracized and made fun of whenever they feel like it or get the chance.
Nate has been on his own, with only his aunt, really, for company - unless you count his dead Nana who shows up from time to time - and he's lonely. He sees his 15 year old sister Sarah from time to time at school, but she still lives at home with their mom, who kicked Nate out a few years back because of his ability. It scared her and so she tried to shove away that which she did not understand. Making Nate even lonelier in the process.
His Aunt Susan is the only one who stood up for him. If it weren't for her, his own mother would have left him on the streets. Gah.
But then in early October of his senior year, in walks James, a cute, handsome boy who Nate immediately takes a shine to - and has a hopeless crush on - and who doesn't treat Nate like a freak, even after others tell him the rumors. He sees Nate for who he is, not what is talked about.
James has his own pain, as he lost his brother sometime earlier that year and is still grieving. But Nate has a problem, because said dead brother keeps hanging around James, and soon enough he talks to Nate, even though James isn't ready to yet. It causes some problems.
And they start out as friends, and with Nate too scared to put himself out there and tell James how he feels, it takes awhile for them together. But oh when they do it is so sweet and adorable. James is great to Nate and he is Nate's first everything so Nate is a blushing, nervous wreck a lot of the time. But James is there to comfort him and it is wonderful.
I'm super happy I didn't waste 5 bucks on this, because it was SO worth it. I can't believe this story is below 200 pages too, because the author packs so much story into all of it and I didn't feel like it wasn't long enough and it was just the perfect length for the story the author was telling.
I loved this story and I loved that Nate got his happy ending in the end, and got to be happy after years of being so miserable. Two massive thumbs up from me! <333
March 27, 2017
Sweet, impactful YA with modest angst, tasteful (dare I say age-appropriate?) romance and sexuality, and light paranormal elements.
I might have liked to learn more about certain characters, but on the upside, there's already plenty of material to explore if the author decides to write more stories in this setting.
The leads were really well done and sold the whole experience for me. I'd definitely revisit this author.
I might have liked to learn more about certain characters, but on the upside, there's already plenty of material to explore if the author decides to write more stories in this setting.
The leads were really well done and sold the whole experience for me. I'd definitely revisit this author.
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March 18, 2017An awesome YA start for this new author!
March 24, 2017
4.5 stars. <333333
A Boy Worth Knowing is one of the best YA books I’ve read recently. Wonderfully realistic, witty, and charming, and I so, so, so adored Nate. I loved James, too…but Nate, you guys…he was fantastic. Jennifer Cosgrove gave him such an authentic voice, I truly felt like I was inside a high school boy’s head. The same was true for James as well; in fact, all the characters read as very true to life. There’s nothing that bothers me more in reading YA than it feeling forced, or painfully obvious that it’s anything but a teenager or young adult writing the story. Cosgrove definitely seems to have the knack for it, though.
See my full review here: http://www.thenovelapproachreviews.co...
A Boy Worth Knowing is one of the best YA books I’ve read recently. Wonderfully realistic, witty, and charming, and I so, so, so adored Nate. I loved James, too…but Nate, you guys…he was fantastic. Jennifer Cosgrove gave him such an authentic voice, I truly felt like I was inside a high school boy’s head. The same was true for James as well; in fact, all the characters read as very true to life. There’s nothing that bothers me more in reading YA than it feeling forced, or painfully obvious that it’s anything but a teenager or young adult writing the story. Cosgrove definitely seems to have the knack for it, though.
See my full review here: http://www.thenovelapproachreviews.co...
February 8, 2018
You guys, I freaking adored this book. I think it is one of my favorite YA stories to date. It's well written, funny, and sweet without being over the top.
My favorite thing, though? Nate sounds like a high school student (which he is, of course). He doesn't sound too mature for his age, and his actions are that of a 17-18 year old boy. He's insecure and so stinking charming. The paranormal aspect of the story doesn't overpower the friendship and growing love (or "extreme like" as Nate likes to say) between these two. It just adds a little something extra that makes the story unique and memorable. I found everything about this story absolutely refreshing.
Highly recommended for my fellow YA lovers :). I can't wait to read what Jennifer Cosgrove writes next!
My favorite thing, though? Nate sounds like a high school student (which he is, of course). He doesn't sound too mature for his age, and his actions are that of a 17-18 year old boy. He's insecure and so stinking charming. The paranormal aspect of the story doesn't overpower the friendship and growing love (or "extreme like" as Nate likes to say) between these two. It just adds a little something extra that makes the story unique and memorable. I found everything about this story absolutely refreshing.
Highly recommended for my fellow YA lovers :). I can't wait to read what Jennifer Cosgrove writes next!
October 19, 2017
I'm happy I found this book.
This is one of the best YA book thIs year.
I almost had the feeling like when I read Aristotle and Dante.
All the teenage problems along with ghosts intact...is one unique experience.
In my real life, I am the aunt Susan with my seeing and talking with ghost niece. Trust me it's not easy. And it's real.
Nice sweet story, low angst and with typical teenage problems to solve. This book is unputdownable and worth every time you took to read. And reread.
Because, you don't read a good book only once :)
Highly recommended!
This is one of the best YA book thIs year.
I almost had the feeling like when I read Aristotle and Dante.
All the teenage problems along with ghosts intact...is one unique experience.
In my real life, I am the aunt Susan with my seeing and talking with ghost niece. Trust me it's not easy. And it's real.
Nice sweet story, low angst and with typical teenage problems to solve. This book is unputdownable and worth every time you took to read. And reread.
Because, you don't read a good book only once :)
Highly recommended!
June 25, 2017
Una monada, con un protagonista que se hace querer, adorable y muy simpático. De esas lecturas que te dejan de buen rollo y con una sonrisa en la boca.
March 23, 2017
4 stars
I'm a big sucker for YA m/m romance that has a coming of age feel, so I was very excited to read this. And in the end I liked it, but not as much as I wanted to. What I liked most was Nate - I loved his voice and I really understood and felt for him. What I didn't like? First, even though we don't really see the mom much, I thought that part was a little over the top. . Second, there were some things about the development of the relationship with James that weren't believable to me. I'm probably just being too picky!
I'm a big sucker for YA m/m romance that has a coming of age feel, so I was very excited to read this. And in the end I liked it, but not as much as I wanted to. What I liked most was Nate - I loved his voice and I really understood and felt for him. What I didn't like? First, even though we don't really see the mom much, I thought that part was a little over the top. . Second, there were some things about the development of the relationship with James that weren't believable to me. I'm probably just being too picky!
February 26, 2017
A Boy Worth Knowing is a sweet, queer coming of age story - with ghosts. But that’s shockingly normalized in this setting. Nate Shaw can see ghosts and he’s gay, and both of those things are totally okay. Other people sometimes have a problem with the ghost part, including Nate’s mother, but Nate’s sexuality is never a point of shame or fear. Nate’s an outcast at school, until James, the new boy, takes an interest in being his friend.
Their friendship is typical of teenage boys, bad horror movies, video games, and teasing. What’s not typical is that James has a ghost hanging around him that wants Nate’s help in getting James to move on. Nate must navigate the first real friendship he’s had around his ability to talk to ghosts, teenage social pressure, and his growing romantic feelings for James.
The book creates really special characters in Nate and James. It doesn’t ignore teenage anxiety but it’s never rooted in who Nate is as a person, only how others might react to him or just normal worry. It also doesn’t shy away from the fact that 17 year old boys have hormones and bodies with desires, but stays age appropriate. It’s a cute, sweet, and hopeful story of a kid figuring himself out, making a best friend, and loving him along the way.
Their friendship is typical of teenage boys, bad horror movies, video games, and teasing. What’s not typical is that James has a ghost hanging around him that wants Nate’s help in getting James to move on. Nate must navigate the first real friendship he’s had around his ability to talk to ghosts, teenage social pressure, and his growing romantic feelings for James.
The book creates really special characters in Nate and James. It doesn’t ignore teenage anxiety but it’s never rooted in who Nate is as a person, only how others might react to him or just normal worry. It also doesn’t shy away from the fact that 17 year old boys have hormones and bodies with desires, but stays age appropriate. It’s a cute, sweet, and hopeful story of a kid figuring himself out, making a best friend, and loving him along the way.
November 27, 2018
Seventeen-year-old Nate Shaw has been able to see ghosts since he was twelve. This ability labeled him a freak and an outcast at school. This all changes when the new boy, James Powell, takes a seat next to him in class. James not only notices him, he manages to work his way into Nate's life (and heart). But will James stick around once he finds out the truth?
This book was cute, funny and absolutely heartwarming. If you want something light with adorable main characters you should definitely pick it up, even if the writing style is a bit too simplistic.
I had a good time reading this one.
This book was cute, funny and absolutely heartwarming. If you want something light with adorable main characters you should definitely pick it up, even if the writing style is a bit too simplistic.
I had a good time reading this one.
February 8, 2018
"I squeezed my eyes shut and tried to remember I was a reasonably intelligent person who did not fall apart over talking to someone on the phone."
This was super, super cute. Nate was a blushing, precious disaster and James was a smiling puppy of a boy. The first forty pages or so were a tad slow, but the last fifty pages or so were so addictive they made up for it.
Looking for a YA read to leave you with the feeling only copious amounts of hot chocolate could give you in the past? Look no further.
This was super, super cute. Nate was a blushing, precious disaster and James was a smiling puppy of a boy. The first forty pages or so were a tad slow, but the last fifty pages or so were so addictive they made up for it.
Looking for a YA read to leave you with the feeling only copious amounts of hot chocolate could give you in the past? Look no further.
November 20, 2017
I adored this book. Nate is lonely and considered a freak at school. He can talk to Ghosts and he's so snarky, awkward and adorkable. James is sweet, outgoing and saw something special in Nate. With two main ghosts that stick around, an awesome aunt, some mean teenagers and a few hiccups along the way... we get one very sweet and special story.
April 3, 2017
The story is a pleasant YA read with some slow burn friends to boyfriends romance. I found the pacing was a bit slow at times, and I kept waiting for something BIG to happen...but it doesn't.
It's just a sweet look at the life of Nate, a senior in high school who's sort of an outcast, who gets befriended by the cute new guy, and eventually falls in love with him.
Oh, and Nate can see dead people. Which I really thought would be more badass than it actually turned out to be.
Anyway...cute, sweet, low steam, slow burn romance.
It's just a sweet look at the life of Nate, a senior in high school who's sort of an outcast, who gets befriended by the cute new guy, and eventually falls in love with him.
Oh, and Nate can see dead people. Which I really thought would be more badass than it actually turned out to be.
Anyway...cute, sweet, low steam, slow burn romance.
November 29, 2019
Nate sees dead people and it makes him a social pariah. Enter the meet cute and we are off to the races. I wasn’t sure if we were heading into a murder mystery, ghost story, or a love story and feel like there could have been more in this. It had great characters and well crafted back stories, and even provided a real reason to use those powers to see the departed to go on an adventure. Instead the powers were the backdrop of the story and the motivation for some things to happen, not the crux of the tale.
And that was fine, just not what I thought would happen.
Everyone wants Aunt Susan to be their guardian after reading this. She was awesome. Although she makes some questionable decisions regarding her child’s freedoms and who can sleep over.
James is the perfect boyfriend too. This could have gone deeper and there could have been more conflict. His character is fleshed out so well, it was shame to go so quickly through what he had to overcome.
The language was beautiful and I cared about these characters. I’m happy with the ending and happy for Nate to find light at the end of his tunnel.
And that was fine, just not what I thought would happen.
Everyone wants Aunt Susan to be their guardian after reading this. She was awesome. Although she makes some questionable decisions regarding her child’s freedoms and who can sleep over.
James is the perfect boyfriend too. This could have gone deeper and there could have been more conflict. His character is fleshed out so well, it was shame to go so quickly through what he had to overcome.
The language was beautiful and I cared about these characters. I’m happy with the ending and happy for Nate to find light at the end of his tunnel.
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