What do you think?
Rate this book
Euphoria Kids
Ever since the witch cursed Babs, she turns invisible sometimes. She has her mum and her dog, but teachers and classmates barely notice her. Then, one day, Iris can see her. And Iris likes what they see. Babs is made of fire.
Iris grew from a seed in the ground. They have friends, but not human ones. Not until they meet Babs. The two of them have a lot in common: they speak to dryads and faeries, and they're connected to the magic that's all around them.
There's a new boy at school, a boy who's like them and who hasn't found his real name. Soon the three of them are hanging out and trying spellwork together. Magic can be dangerous, though. Witches and fae can be cruel. Something is happening in the other realm, and despite being warned to stay away, the three friends have to figure out how to deal with it on their own terms.
Anyone who loves the work of Francesca Lia Block and delights in Studio Ghibli films will be entranced by this gorgeous and gentle young adult novel about three queer friends who come into their power.
Iris grew from a seed in the ground. They have friends, but not human ones. Not until they meet Babs. The two of them have a lot in common: they speak to dryads and faeries, and they're connected to the magic that's all around them.
There's a new boy at school, a boy who's like them and who hasn't found his real name. Soon the three of them are hanging out and trying spellwork together. Magic can be dangerous, though. Witches and fae can be cruel. Something is happening in the other realm, and despite being warned to stay away, the three friends have to figure out how to deal with it on their own terms.
Anyone who loves the work of Francesca Lia Block and delights in Studio Ghibli films will be entranced by this gorgeous and gentle young adult novel about three queer friends who come into their power.
196 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 4, 2020
18 people are currently reading
2402 people want to read
About the author
Alison Evans
10 books189 followersAlison Evans is the author of Ida, which won the People’s Choice Award at the Victorian Premier’s Literary Awards 2017.
Their second novel, Highway Bodies, was published earlier this year and they are a contributor to new anthology, Kindred: 12 Queer #LoveOzYA Stories.
They are based in Melbourne.
You can find out more at alisonwritesthings.com
Their second novel, Highway Bodies, was published earlier this year and they are a contributor to new anthology, Kindred: 12 Queer #LoveOzYA Stories.
They are based in Melbourne.
You can find out more at alisonwritesthings.com
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
March 4, 2020
*https://theburgeoningbookshelf.blogsp...
Although not the intended readership, I absolutely loved this magical and tender story.
Alison Evans has a wonderful way of expressing feelings and emotions.
Iris is a plant child. They grew from the ground. The child of Clover and Moss. They know they are different. A non-binary child that talks to the fairie, Saltkin, in the garden.
“I didn’t want to be a strange baby made of plants, but it hasn’t caused any problems. I don’t know if anyone else can tell.”
Babs is trans-gender, a witch left a spell on her that makes her invisible. Life can be lonely when you are cursed with bouts of invisibility but one day Iris sees her and a friendship begins. Iris can see that Babs is made of fire.
I enjoyed watching the friendship between Iris and Babs develop and also the introduction of the new boy, a trans-gender who hadn’t yet discovered who he was.
“Here’s a boy, not sure of his name or what he is made of. Iris grew from a seed under moss, brimming with new magic. And me, a fiery mess of a girl, crackling when I walk. I forged my own name. I’m invisible sometimes, but I know who I am.
He just needs time. I hope he knows that.” - Babs
Babs’ words are filled with such confidence and compassion.
The characters grew and developed. There was no mention of bullying and the teens were responsible, caring and respectful of their parents. In turn the parents were supportive. It was such a heart-warming thing to see these loving close-knit families.
The magical element of the story is captivating. The teens live on the edge of the National Park and within the park is The Realm, a dark place they are warned to stay away from.
As Babs is drawn to the forest the tension mounts, making this a story that is hard to put down until you know the final conclusion.
Euphoria Kids is a tender, touching story seeped with magic bringing to life the earth, the plants and all things magical.
I finished this book wanting more!
*I received a copy from the publisher
Although not the intended readership, I absolutely loved this magical and tender story.
Alison Evans has a wonderful way of expressing feelings and emotions.
Iris is a plant child. They grew from the ground. The child of Clover and Moss. They know they are different. A non-binary child that talks to the fairie, Saltkin, in the garden.
“I didn’t want to be a strange baby made of plants, but it hasn’t caused any problems. I don’t know if anyone else can tell.”
Babs is trans-gender, a witch left a spell on her that makes her invisible. Life can be lonely when you are cursed with bouts of invisibility but one day Iris sees her and a friendship begins. Iris can see that Babs is made of fire.
I enjoyed watching the friendship between Iris and Babs develop and also the introduction of the new boy, a trans-gender who hadn’t yet discovered who he was.
“Here’s a boy, not sure of his name or what he is made of. Iris grew from a seed under moss, brimming with new magic. And me, a fiery mess of a girl, crackling when I walk. I forged my own name. I’m invisible sometimes, but I know who I am.
He just needs time. I hope he knows that.” - Babs
Babs’ words are filled with such confidence and compassion.
The characters grew and developed. There was no mention of bullying and the teens were responsible, caring and respectful of their parents. In turn the parents were supportive. It was such a heart-warming thing to see these loving close-knit families.
The magical element of the story is captivating. The teens live on the edge of the National Park and within the park is The Realm, a dark place they are warned to stay away from.
As Babs is drawn to the forest the tension mounts, making this a story that is hard to put down until you know the final conclusion.
Euphoria Kids is a tender, touching story seeped with magic bringing to life the earth, the plants and all things magical.
I finished this book wanting more!
*I received a copy from the publisher
September 5, 2020
No violence. No Good and Evil. No budding romances. Just budding friendships, and people who treat one another like people.
All in all, an excellent YA novel. :)
A few specific examples why:
https://choveshkata.net/forum/viewtop...
All in all, an excellent YA novel. :)
A few specific examples why:
https://choveshkata.net/forum/viewtop...
April 14, 2020
*https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
3.5 stars
POPSUGAR READING CHALLENGE 2020: A book by a trans or non-binary author
That’s how I might feel about gender, now. It’s upsetting when people misgender me, but it’s exhausting to get upset about it every time. I’m not sure I can do it anymore.’
Euphoria Kids is the latest novel by Australian author Alison Evans. Euphoria Kids is a story of mystical proportions, that explores identity, belonging, connections and friendship, with a magical overlay. This young adult offering is an embracing tale, that will strike a chord with a variety of readers.
Euphoria Kids is the remarkable tale of three different souls, who all cross the bridge to connection and understanding. For Babs, her cursed life has resulted in long standing feelings of isolation and disconnection. Babs feels as though she has been largely ignored by the school community. Life changes for Babs when Iris steps into her life and begins to see Babs for who she truly is. Iris herself is another lost soul, who lacks any true human connections in her life. With Iris’ unique affinity to the natural world and mother earth, together these two new friends navigate a world inhabited by magical figures. When a new student arrives at school, a boy with no name, a genuine bond is developed between this threesome. Together the group indulge in plenty of magic and spellwork. But evil still lurks in the background, threatening to overthrow their happy union. It will take the power of all three of these souls to overthrow the problems coming from the magical realm.
I haven’t read anything before by Alison Evans, but I have seen that Evans is a very popular author, through my work on The Australian Women Writers Challenge. Evans seems to be leading the charge in the speculative fiction category, thanks to this author's highly applauded books Ida and Highway Bodies. Euphoria Kids is a story filled with rich fantasy, vivid imagery and strong metaphors. It underscored by the unique and individual prose utilised by Alison Evans.
I was drawn to Euphoria Kids as I was in need of a book that was written by a trans or non-binary author for the 2020 Pop Sugar Reading Challenge. A thorough look at my existing bookshelves revealed that unfortunately my book selection did not carry a trans or a non-binary author. Consequently, I went on to source a copy of Euphoria Kids from my local bookstore. Alison Evans is quite the campaigner for the gender queer community. In an article I came across published by The Saturday Paper in 2018, Alison Evans states, "By writing non-binary characters and being a non-binary author, all I really want is to increase visibility and understanding.” I think Evans has achieved this and more thanks to this author's growing collection of novels, including this latest contribution, Euphoria Kids. Evans is working hard to give a voice to and tell the stories of this community and in turn, Evans is building the presence of readers who identify within this identity.
Euphoria Kids contains three diverse characters, in Babs, Iris and the new boy – a character who has no name. These characters are a clear reflection of the trans, gender queer and non-binary identities. Euphoria Kids is sensitive and insightful, but it also represents a spellbinding portrayal of those who are part of this colourful community. Thrown in the mix are an eclectic mix of supporting cast and non-human characters, such as faeries and dryads. I had not come across dryads prior to this novel, so Euphoria Kids was quite an informative read for me personally. I also had to open myself up to the mystical world, as the characters flit in and out of another magical realm. Those who enjoy fantasy and speculative fiction novels will be sure to appreciate the direction this novel takes.
I definitely feel much more aware of what the construct of non-binary, trans and gender queer means in terms of the literature and the stories we are building in this area. I definitely valued the author’s direction with Euphoria Kids, despite the fact that I struggled with the magical elements of the text, but the important metaphors included in this novel makes it a vital read for young people today. Despite the references to misunderstanding, isolation and frustration, Euphoria Kids is a hopeful text, that will work wonders to break down any barriers and misconceptions about gender fluidity. I do hope to see more stories released in this field in the near future.
Euphoria Kids is book #34 of the 2020 Australian Women Writers Challenge
3.5 stars
POPSUGAR READING CHALLENGE 2020: A book by a trans or non-binary author
That’s how I might feel about gender, now. It’s upsetting when people misgender me, but it’s exhausting to get upset about it every time. I’m not sure I can do it anymore.’
Euphoria Kids is the latest novel by Australian author Alison Evans. Euphoria Kids is a story of mystical proportions, that explores identity, belonging, connections and friendship, with a magical overlay. This young adult offering is an embracing tale, that will strike a chord with a variety of readers.
Euphoria Kids is the remarkable tale of three different souls, who all cross the bridge to connection and understanding. For Babs, her cursed life has resulted in long standing feelings of isolation and disconnection. Babs feels as though she has been largely ignored by the school community. Life changes for Babs when Iris steps into her life and begins to see Babs for who she truly is. Iris herself is another lost soul, who lacks any true human connections in her life. With Iris’ unique affinity to the natural world and mother earth, together these two new friends navigate a world inhabited by magical figures. When a new student arrives at school, a boy with no name, a genuine bond is developed between this threesome. Together the group indulge in plenty of magic and spellwork. But evil still lurks in the background, threatening to overthrow their happy union. It will take the power of all three of these souls to overthrow the problems coming from the magical realm.
I haven’t read anything before by Alison Evans, but I have seen that Evans is a very popular author, through my work on The Australian Women Writers Challenge. Evans seems to be leading the charge in the speculative fiction category, thanks to this author's highly applauded books Ida and Highway Bodies. Euphoria Kids is a story filled with rich fantasy, vivid imagery and strong metaphors. It underscored by the unique and individual prose utilised by Alison Evans.
I was drawn to Euphoria Kids as I was in need of a book that was written by a trans or non-binary author for the 2020 Pop Sugar Reading Challenge. A thorough look at my existing bookshelves revealed that unfortunately my book selection did not carry a trans or a non-binary author. Consequently, I went on to source a copy of Euphoria Kids from my local bookstore. Alison Evans is quite the campaigner for the gender queer community. In an article I came across published by The Saturday Paper in 2018, Alison Evans states, "By writing non-binary characters and being a non-binary author, all I really want is to increase visibility and understanding.” I think Evans has achieved this and more thanks to this author's growing collection of novels, including this latest contribution, Euphoria Kids. Evans is working hard to give a voice to and tell the stories of this community and in turn, Evans is building the presence of readers who identify within this identity.
Euphoria Kids contains three diverse characters, in Babs, Iris and the new boy – a character who has no name. These characters are a clear reflection of the trans, gender queer and non-binary identities. Euphoria Kids is sensitive and insightful, but it also represents a spellbinding portrayal of those who are part of this colourful community. Thrown in the mix are an eclectic mix of supporting cast and non-human characters, such as faeries and dryads. I had not come across dryads prior to this novel, so Euphoria Kids was quite an informative read for me personally. I also had to open myself up to the mystical world, as the characters flit in and out of another magical realm. Those who enjoy fantasy and speculative fiction novels will be sure to appreciate the direction this novel takes.
I definitely feel much more aware of what the construct of non-binary, trans and gender queer means in terms of the literature and the stories we are building in this area. I definitely valued the author’s direction with Euphoria Kids, despite the fact that I struggled with the magical elements of the text, but the important metaphors included in this novel makes it a vital read for young people today. Despite the references to misunderstanding, isolation and frustration, Euphoria Kids is a hopeful text, that will work wonders to break down any barriers and misconceptions about gender fluidity. I do hope to see more stories released in this field in the near future.
Euphoria Kids is book #34 of the 2020 Australian Women Writers Challenge
March 14, 2020
‘But we have to remember, it’s not up to us to change anyone’s lives, unless they ask.’
Babs has been cursed, and sometimes she’s invisible. Teachers and classmates often don’t see her. Iris grew from a seed in the ground and identifies as non-binary. One day, Iris can see Babs. Iris and Babs have a lot in common: they are both connected to the magic in the world around them.
This is a beautiful story of acceptance, identity and magic. Iris wants to help Babs have her curse removed. And while they are working out how, they meet a boy. The Boy hasn’t yet worked out who he is and doesn’t initially have his real name.
The three of them work together, exploring a magical world. Each of them has a parent or parents. Respectful, kind parents who care.
This is a wonderful YA book: Babs, Iris and The Boy look out for each other. Especially as Babs is drawn into The Realm, a magical dark place which they’ve been warned to stay away from. Can Babs find the witch who cursed her, and have the curse removed? Will The Boy find himself? Can Iris hang onto their friends?
Ms Evans writes:
‘I want people to know about gender euphoria. I want them to learn about it before gender dysphoria. I want young trans kids that will read this book to be proud of who they are, and imagine wonderful magic lives for themselves.’
Me too.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
Babs has been cursed, and sometimes she’s invisible. Teachers and classmates often don’t see her. Iris grew from a seed in the ground and identifies as non-binary. One day, Iris can see Babs. Iris and Babs have a lot in common: they are both connected to the magic in the world around them.
This is a beautiful story of acceptance, identity and magic. Iris wants to help Babs have her curse removed. And while they are working out how, they meet a boy. The Boy hasn’t yet worked out who he is and doesn’t initially have his real name.
The three of them work together, exploring a magical world. Each of them has a parent or parents. Respectful, kind parents who care.
This is a wonderful YA book: Babs, Iris and The Boy look out for each other. Especially as Babs is drawn into The Realm, a magical dark place which they’ve been warned to stay away from. Can Babs find the witch who cursed her, and have the curse removed? Will The Boy find himself? Can Iris hang onto their friends?
Ms Evans writes:
‘I want people to know about gender euphoria. I want them to learn about it before gender dysphoria. I want young trans kids that will read this book to be proud of who they are, and imagine wonderful magic lives for themselves.’
Me too.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
February 6, 2020
Euphoria Kids is an enchanting tale of identity, friendship, and belonging for young adults from Alison Evans.
Told with imagination and tenderness, it introduces Iris, identified as non-binary, who makes a wish for a friend and finds first Babs, a girl who often not only feels, but sometimes is, invisible, and a trans boy, new to the school, who has not yet found his real name.
The prose is lyrical with a whimsical tone. Using magic in part as a metaphor, Evan’s characters explore their who they are, and who they want to be, supporting one another in finding and facing their truths. And as with all fairytales there is a happy ending.
I (a cis, straight, white woman in her 40’s) am not the target audience for this book but I do appreciate, and respect, the author’s intent to provide representation and support for genderqueer youth. I hope this book finds it way into schools and libraries where it will have a chance to work its magic for those in need.
Told with imagination and tenderness, it introduces Iris, identified as non-binary, who makes a wish for a friend and finds first Babs, a girl who often not only feels, but sometimes is, invisible, and a trans boy, new to the school, who has not yet found his real name.
The prose is lyrical with a whimsical tone. Using magic in part as a metaphor, Evan’s characters explore their who they are, and who they want to be, supporting one another in finding and facing their truths. And as with all fairytales there is a happy ending.
I (a cis, straight, white woman in her 40’s) am not the target audience for this book but I do appreciate, and respect, the author’s intent to provide representation and support for genderqueer youth. I hope this book finds it way into schools and libraries where it will have a chance to work its magic for those in need.
February 11, 2020
This book is SO WHOLESOME!!! Three friends, so alike and so different, joining together to help each other find their true selves. I LOVE IT! It's also so refreshing to read a YA story following trans and non-binary characters that isn't about tragedy or persecution. Each of them has a loving supportive family and they are all proud of who they are and I love it so much.
April 15, 2020
A copy of this novel was provided by BFredericksPR for review.
Euphoria Kids, is, I believe, the book that every transgender teen needs. As someone who works with queer teens I wish I somehow had enough money to give them all a copy. Because in a world where trans narratives are too often written by cisgender people with a focus on tragedy, Euphoria Kids defies both those things by having a non-binary author and focussing on queer magic instead of queer tragedy.
The narrative in Euphoria Kids is told in two different points of view. Firstly, we have Iris who is non-binary and uses they/them pronouns. Iris was also born from a seed in the ground so that makes them magical and also a plant, which is just almost too adorable. Iris is also bisexual, and both their gender identity and bisexuality are stated on page, which I still think is important because it makes them more visible to queer readers who can, for possibly the first time, see themselves and their words on page. The other narrator is Babs, a gay trans girl who sometimes turns invisible and is also fire. Babs was cursed by a witch when she was small, and that’s why she sometimes doesn’t appear to the people around her.
Both Iris and Babs have amazing parents, even if they don’t always completely understand what’s going on the lives of their children. It just made me so happy to see parents supporting their queer kids because that is actually a thing that happens! And a thing we are aspiring to for all queer kids. For acceptance and support from the people who raised them to be a given, not something to be surprised and grateful for. This truly is a euphoric book.
The blurb sort of makes Euphoria Kids sound quite a bit darker and more high stakes than it really is. There are a few scary scenes and a few “is this character evil?” moments but on the whole Euphoria Kids is a soft magic book. It is soft because it’s about friendship and discovering your connections to people. It is soft because these kids are so queer and not afraid of it. It is soft because Iris and Babs take the boy under their wing even though they had only just found each other. It is soft because Iris and Babs are soulmates and whether they’re romantically involved or not isn’t the point. It is soft because there are fae and talking trees and running water.
I honestly don’t know how else to convince you to read Euphoria Kids except that it is nothing like you’ve ever read before. It is unique and special and, quite frankly, groundbreaking. It is the book every trans teen needs. It is the book every queer teen needs. It is the book written about them and, most importantly, for them. Which is how it always should be.
© 2020, Chiara @ Books for a Delicate Eternity. All rights reserved.
trigger warning : transphobia, misgendering, absent parent
Euphoria Kids, is, I believe, the book that every transgender teen needs. As someone who works with queer teens I wish I somehow had enough money to give them all a copy. Because in a world where trans narratives are too often written by cisgender people with a focus on tragedy, Euphoria Kids defies both those things by having a non-binary author and focussing on queer magic instead of queer tragedy.
The narrative in Euphoria Kids is told in two different points of view. Firstly, we have Iris who is non-binary and uses they/them pronouns. Iris was also born from a seed in the ground so that makes them magical and also a plant, which is just almost too adorable. Iris is also bisexual, and both their gender identity and bisexuality are stated on page, which I still think is important because it makes them more visible to queer readers who can, for possibly the first time, see themselves and their words on page. The other narrator is Babs, a gay trans girl who sometimes turns invisible and is also fire. Babs was cursed by a witch when she was small, and that’s why she sometimes doesn’t appear to the people around her.
Both Iris and Babs have amazing parents, even if they don’t always completely understand what’s going on the lives of their children. It just made me so happy to see parents supporting their queer kids because that is actually a thing that happens! And a thing we are aspiring to for all queer kids. For acceptance and support from the people who raised them to be a given, not something to be surprised and grateful for. This truly is a euphoric book.
The blurb sort of makes Euphoria Kids sound quite a bit darker and more high stakes than it really is. There are a few scary scenes and a few “is this character evil?” moments but on the whole Euphoria Kids is a soft magic book. It is soft because it’s about friendship and discovering your connections to people. It is soft because these kids are so queer and not afraid of it. It is soft because Iris and Babs take the boy under their wing even though they had only just found each other. It is soft because Iris and Babs are soulmates and whether they’re romantically involved or not isn’t the point. It is soft because there are fae and talking trees and running water.
I honestly don’t know how else to convince you to read Euphoria Kids except that it is nothing like you’ve ever read before. It is unique and special and, quite frankly, groundbreaking. It is the book every trans teen needs. It is the book every queer teen needs. It is the book written about them and, most importantly, for them. Which is how it always should be.
© 2020, Chiara @ Books for a Delicate Eternity. All rights reserved.
trigger warning : transphobia, misgendering, absent parent
January 10, 2020
Alison Evans’ Highway Bodies was a superb new zombie apocalypse with its focus on gentle queer kids trying to survive in a savage world by leaning on love and friendship as well as their own resources.
Their next novel is another sweet tale of young queer people finding their place in the world and with each other, in an environment of fairies, strange realms and a witch’s curse. It’s as much contemporary fairytale as modern YA novel, which is a good part of why it’s so delightful.
The chapters vary between non-binary Iris, who grew from a seed in the ground, and their new friend Babs, who was cursed by a witch and is sometimes invisible. The two befriend a new trans kid who hasn’t found his name yet, so they call him the boy until he chooses.
Babs, Iris and the boy negotiate school, home lives, art class, the woods and the realm beyond, and learning magic. Babs’ attempts to find and confront the witch that cursed her are complicated by Iris’s promise to the fairies to not help her, and by the attentions of otherworldly threats when they cross into the realm.
Euphoria Kids is charming, filled with lush growing things, wonderful descriptive language and effortlessly inclusive concepts and language. With home life difficulties and wild magic all around, the book’s inherent gentleness isn’t without tension or drama. Instead, Evans guides us through a world that is shifting and often uncertain, but filled with courage, kindness and friendship.
Euphoria Kids isn’t due out until 4 February, but you can pre-order this lovely fairytale.
Their next novel is another sweet tale of young queer people finding their place in the world and with each other, in an environment of fairies, strange realms and a witch’s curse. It’s as much contemporary fairytale as modern YA novel, which is a good part of why it’s so delightful.
The chapters vary between non-binary Iris, who grew from a seed in the ground, and their new friend Babs, who was cursed by a witch and is sometimes invisible. The two befriend a new trans kid who hasn’t found his name yet, so they call him the boy until he chooses.
Babs, Iris and the boy negotiate school, home lives, art class, the woods and the realm beyond, and learning magic. Babs’ attempts to find and confront the witch that cursed her are complicated by Iris’s promise to the fairies to not help her, and by the attentions of otherworldly threats when they cross into the realm.
Euphoria Kids is charming, filled with lush growing things, wonderful descriptive language and effortlessly inclusive concepts and language. With home life difficulties and wild magic all around, the book’s inherent gentleness isn’t without tension or drama. Instead, Evans guides us through a world that is shifting and often uncertain, but filled with courage, kindness and friendship.
Euphoria Kids isn’t due out until 4 February, but you can pre-order this lovely fairytale.
February 16, 2020
I did receive an early copy of this #LoveOzYA book from Echo Publishing and *inhaled* it months ago! I think the publisher tag is very apt: “Anyone who loves the work of Francesca Lia Block and delights in Studio Ghibli films will be entranced by this gorgeous and gentle young adult novel about three queer friends who come into their power.” 🐱🕸🌿🌹 it’s just a really lovely witchy tale of power and coming-of-age from an author who is coming into their own too, and goes from strength to strength
February 26, 2023
I wish I had this book when I was a kid
October 17, 2021
RTC! Please go read this whimsical tale, everyone!
May 3, 2020
I loved the easy rhythm of this story and its inclusiveness. Told in alternating points of view, Euphoria Kids is one for the dreamers and a story I would have treasured as a teen.
Underneath the magic and wonder of connecting with dryads and faeries and exploring alternate realms is the struggle of being marginalised, of going unseen, of suffering in silence. Friends prove to be the balm. As Iris, Babs and the new boy at school connect with nature and each other, they start to heal and come into their own. This is a book to dip into when real life gets too wearing. Euphoria Kids belongs on every teenager's bookshelf.
Underneath the magic and wonder of connecting with dryads and faeries and exploring alternate realms is the struggle of being marginalised, of going unseen, of suffering in silence. Friends prove to be the balm. As Iris, Babs and the new boy at school connect with nature and each other, they start to heal and come into their own. This is a book to dip into when real life gets too wearing. Euphoria Kids belongs on every teenager's bookshelf.
Read
January 5, 2022I was introduced to this new-to-me author by this group read for the YA LGBT Books group. I'm really glad we picked it, because the writing and themes (friendship, acceptance, support, honesty) were beautiful. I also really liked the supernatural elements and the way the fae world was something to slide gently in and out of. The fae are not uniformly good or evil, and neither is magic in general; even the witch's "curse" has good aspects that Babs appreciates. It was also a nice change to encounter a YA book without romance. I'll definitely look for more by Evans.
April 6, 2022
4,5 starts
This is just very cute and magical. It's going to be my new comfort book.
This is just very cute and magical. It's going to be my new comfort book.
Read
June 22, 2021“Something is happening” .
I’ve been meaning to read Euphoria Kids for a while now. The cover pulls me in, each little detail feels new every day and I swear I find something else enchanting when I next pick it up. For me, this book really has been unlike others. I’m usually a person to devour in one sitting, but this book? Special. It took me a few days to taste each page and really let the feeling melt into me. This book is safe, this book is soft, this book is important.
Alison Evans’ characters glow.
You have Iris, grown from a seed, a twinkling witch. They are kind and hopeful and felt like me. Babs, who is trying to be seen and understood, she is looking for answers and truth. And the boy who is understanding his identity and the world of magic that he’s a part of.
“She can tell that I am grown from a seed in the ground. I wonder if she knows I know she’s made of fire” (10).
The three of them combine to understand their identities and the world of the fae around them in a beautiful description of Australia. We listen to their truths and feelings and just adapt and adopt them where we can.
Evans has powerful descriptions. At moments I felt home with the blue-banded bees and magpies. Like this story was grown for me and that I could melt away into the sentences. A dream, is a soft place to land after all.
“People want easy solutions a lot of the time when they come to me. But magic is very subtle, it’s like a tiny nudge in the right direction. It’s more about getting someone to think about what choices and actions they need to make” (71).
This is an important coming of age story, an understanding of trans identities, an understanding of our own personal magic. Honestly, I just felt safe in this read and that’s the most important thing about it to me. Thank you Alison.
I’ve been meaning to read Euphoria Kids for a while now. The cover pulls me in, each little detail feels new every day and I swear I find something else enchanting when I next pick it up. For me, this book really has been unlike others. I’m usually a person to devour in one sitting, but this book? Special. It took me a few days to taste each page and really let the feeling melt into me. This book is safe, this book is soft, this book is important.
Alison Evans’ characters glow.
You have Iris, grown from a seed, a twinkling witch. They are kind and hopeful and felt like me. Babs, who is trying to be seen and understood, she is looking for answers and truth. And the boy who is understanding his identity and the world of magic that he’s a part of.
“She can tell that I am grown from a seed in the ground. I wonder if she knows I know she’s made of fire” (10).
The three of them combine to understand their identities and the world of the fae around them in a beautiful description of Australia. We listen to their truths and feelings and just adapt and adopt them where we can.
Evans has powerful descriptions. At moments I felt home with the blue-banded bees and magpies. Like this story was grown for me and that I could melt away into the sentences. A dream, is a soft place to land after all.
“People want easy solutions a lot of the time when they come to me. But magic is very subtle, it’s like a tiny nudge in the right direction. It’s more about getting someone to think about what choices and actions they need to make” (71).
This is an important coming of age story, an understanding of trans identities, an understanding of our own personal magic. Honestly, I just felt safe in this read and that’s the most important thing about it to me. Thank you Alison.
June 7, 2025
Mixed feelings about this one but on balance I want more books with trans and non-binary kids.
Will write a proper review (or something like it) after work.
Sorry I never got back to writing a proper review...however some trans kids 12-14 that I work with absolutely loved this book, which makes me glad it exists
Will write a proper review (or something like it) after work.
Sorry I never got back to writing a proper review...however some trans kids 12-14 that I work with absolutely loved this book, which makes me glad it exists
November 20, 2019
This book is pure magic!!!!!
January 11, 2020
Sweet and lovely. Until it's a bit scary. But only a bit.
Strong characterisation. Lovely truthful friendships. All the feels.
Strong characterisation. Lovely truthful friendships. All the feels.
July 2, 2020
A beautiful, vital story about three loners coming together. Wholesome, truthful and magical in the manner of recent animated series like Steven Universe and Kipo and the Age of Wonderbeasts. Perfect escapism for our current era, yet almost paradoxically grounded in reality.
The narration is deceptively simple; conversational yet elegant.
I'm not the target audience, but Euphoria Kids still resonated. As an educator, I'm thrilled this story exists for young people who might need it.
The narration is deceptively simple; conversational yet elegant.
I'm not the target audience, but Euphoria Kids still resonated. As an educator, I'm thrilled this story exists for young people who might need it.
July 18, 2020
I suspect I'm not the only adult enby out there who wishes they'd been able to read this as a young adult. The validation of queerness, from gender to sexuality to lack of gender, is so comforting; the whole book is like getting a cuddle from a dear friend
August 12, 2024
Heartwarming, soft and lovely adventure. I loved this book so much! I gladly welcomed all the modern magic vibes and the character's euphoria. This is a little gemstone I'll keep close to my heart like a positive spell.
September 12, 2020
I really liked the atmosphere of the book (if you read it, you know what I’m talking about), but there is only so much tome you can spend in that sort of atmosphere before it becomes boring.
September 9, 2021
Beautiful. A story and characters that I love and became a part of me. Loved the wholesomeness, was so magical and wonderfully trans
September 13, 2023
this is literally like listening to cavetown and watching a ghibli movie in book form …i <33
January 31, 2020
Euphoria Kids tells the story of three kids. The first we meet is Iris, who has two mums, can see and speak with faeries and other magical folk, and uses 'they' pronouns. The second is Babs, who they meet after attending the same school for a while but having never run into each other before - partly because Babs has a tendency to turn invisible sometimes thanks to an earlier run-in with a witch. Babs is also made of fire, and identifies as female. When the two finally meet it's like they've come home; finally meeting someone who gets them in a way no one else has before.
Then there's a new boy in school, a boy who hasn't really worked out what name he wants to go by, but who is comforted by the fact he has Babs and Iris who understand it's no big deal to not have a name as of yet, and that it'll come when it's ready. Instantly, the three are friends.
The novel goes through school, times in the forest, and touches on chronic illnesses (Babs' mum), and what it means to be an outsider to some but entirely normal to others. The novel has a wistful and serene tone, and it's sure to touch the hearts of many; anyone who is open to it.
One thing that did slightly confuse me is that in the beginning it sets up that Iris had friends during the first couple years of high school but then drifted from them, which makes me think this is happening when Iris is in Year 11 or Year 12, however, the book itself felt more middle-grade... which, in itself isn't a bad thing. Certainly when I was in school there were kids who seemed to be ready for a mortgage and had enough dramas to fit into The Young and the Restless and then there were other kids who were doing exactly what many adults (I'm sure) wish they could still be doing now. Chilling out, with only a vague worry about the next exam.
What's important is that this story is nice. When I was in school (and then also later judging for the Children's Book Council of Australia Awards), all the books written for the upper years of schooling were so depressing; they were about drugs, abortions, heartache, losing your parents (or having abusive parents), various types of assault, losing your innocence, blah blah blah. And hell, those books are important, sure... but when it's literally all that's out there on the shelves it certainly does paint a certain picture that these years are a time when you're meant to be depressed. And surely that's not right.
Euphoria Kids gives us the representation from an OwnVoices author that we needed then, need now, and need more of in general. Iris, Babs and Boy gives us the delight and warmth of new friendships and acceptance, the knowing who you are and that's okay, or still searching and that's okay, too. And they also have lovely supportive parents, who have a real connection to their kids and support and guide them. Even the woman in the cafe - we see her get it wrong, listen, correct, and try to do better. This is exactly what we need.
Then there's a new boy in school, a boy who hasn't really worked out what name he wants to go by, but who is comforted by the fact he has Babs and Iris who understand it's no big deal to not have a name as of yet, and that it'll come when it's ready. Instantly, the three are friends.
The novel goes through school, times in the forest, and touches on chronic illnesses (Babs' mum), and what it means to be an outsider to some but entirely normal to others. The novel has a wistful and serene tone, and it's sure to touch the hearts of many; anyone who is open to it.
One thing that did slightly confuse me is that in the beginning it sets up that Iris had friends during the first couple years of high school but then drifted from them, which makes me think this is happening when Iris is in Year 11 or Year 12, however, the book itself felt more middle-grade... which, in itself isn't a bad thing. Certainly when I was in school there were kids who seemed to be ready for a mortgage and had enough dramas to fit into The Young and the Restless and then there were other kids who were doing exactly what many adults (I'm sure) wish they could still be doing now. Chilling out, with only a vague worry about the next exam.
What's important is that this story is nice. When I was in school (and then also later judging for the Children's Book Council of Australia Awards), all the books written for the upper years of schooling were so depressing; they were about drugs, abortions, heartache, losing your parents (or having abusive parents), various types of assault, losing your innocence, blah blah blah. And hell, those books are important, sure... but when it's literally all that's out there on the shelves it certainly does paint a certain picture that these years are a time when you're meant to be depressed. And surely that's not right.
Euphoria Kids gives us the representation from an OwnVoices author that we needed then, need now, and need more of in general. Iris, Babs and Boy gives us the delight and warmth of new friendships and acceptance, the knowing who you are and that's okay, or still searching and that's okay, too. And they also have lovely supportive parents, who have a real connection to their kids and support and guide them. Even the woman in the cafe - we see her get it wrong, listen, correct, and try to do better. This is exactly what we need.
August 14, 2020
Review originally posted on A Keyboard and an Open Mind August 14, 2020:
This is such a delightful little book. It’s no secret that I love earthy, witchy magic, nor that I love the Fey. And this book has both in spades.
At its heart, this is a book about queer kids getting to be themselves. The three main characters are a trans girl, a trans boy, and a non-binary character. Their gender identities are important and inform their characters, but they aren’t the whole plot. This is about trans kids getting to be the main characters in the stories told about them that cis kids have been getting for decades.
I found the plot itself started off strong but then kind of fizzled towards the end. There’s a lot of fuss about the witch that cursed Babs coming back, and how dangerous she might be… but she turns out to be really nice, and the curse was accidental. A strong part of The Boy’s arc is that he hasn’t found his name yet, but when he does, it happens off-page.
But despite that, the writing style and the descriptions are so lovely. I felt totally immersed in Iris’ descriptions of their birth from a plant, and their descriptions of their two mums romance. I felt transported into the other Realm each time the MCs went through the National Park. I loved the way the journey into the Realm was slightly different each time and could never quite be predicted.
This is definitely a mood read, and I recommend for when you need something gentle and feel good.
This is such a delightful little book. It’s no secret that I love earthy, witchy magic, nor that I love the Fey. And this book has both in spades.
At its heart, this is a book about queer kids getting to be themselves. The three main characters are a trans girl, a trans boy, and a non-binary character. Their gender identities are important and inform their characters, but they aren’t the whole plot. This is about trans kids getting to be the main characters in the stories told about them that cis kids have been getting for decades.
I found the plot itself started off strong but then kind of fizzled towards the end. There’s a lot of fuss about the witch that cursed Babs coming back, and how dangerous she might be… but she turns out to be really nice, and the curse was accidental. A strong part of The Boy’s arc is that he hasn’t found his name yet, but when he does, it happens off-page.
But despite that, the writing style and the descriptions are so lovely. I felt totally immersed in Iris’ descriptions of their birth from a plant, and their descriptions of their two mums romance. I felt transported into the other Realm each time the MCs went through the National Park. I loved the way the journey into the Realm was slightly different each time and could never quite be predicted.
This is definitely a mood read, and I recommend for when you need something gentle and feel good.
February 24, 2022
The most perfect, exquisite, atmospheric thing I may ever have read. It is 100% the type of book I would like one day to write. Objectively, I loved the way trans identity and gender euphoria were discussed - explicitly and intentionally, yet effortlessly. The friendships were honestly inspirational. The way school life was integrated, and parents, and art class. Just divine.
But for me personally, all the awards go to the magic 'system', the perfect rhythm of sentence structure and pacing, the faeries, and the constant subtle intentional reminder of place - so clearly inspired by the plant life, terrain, tracks & gullies of my soul-home the Dandenong Ranges.
Thank you Alison Evans.
But for me personally, all the awards go to the magic 'system', the perfect rhythm of sentence structure and pacing, the faeries, and the constant subtle intentional reminder of place - so clearly inspired by the plant life, terrain, tracks & gullies of my soul-home the Dandenong Ranges.
Thank you Alison Evans.
March 12, 2022
This was adorable. I loved it so much.
September 15, 2021
- lgbtqiap+, ya fantasy, friendship i love, witchy, magic, alternate universe, disability and mental health rep
- no romance
- nonbinary bi mc (they/them), lesbian trans girl mc (she/her), an arab trans boy (he/him), and other queer characters.
' ive since learned there’s an english word for this feeling, this strange and wonderful amorphous all-consuming wonder. nonbinary. '
‘but we have to remember, it’s not up to us to change anyone’s lives, unless they ask.’
'i have a mum, and iris has two. it’s very strange that you have a dad'
where magic breaths freely yet isnt visible to human eyes, three most unlikely of kids make friends.
perfect for young readers, this story is about friendship and acceptance entwined with so much magic, sunshine and awesomeness that if i had to use only two words to describe this book it would be 'unapologetically queer'!!
i feel like the most amazing thing about this book is that there are so many trans characters (: the author themself being nonbinary really does not shy away from introducing queer characters, who are both supportive and loving. it's a beautiful book filled with so many euphoric moments, the friendship is soft and endearing, the kids take pride in their identities, the elders are loving and accepting, the parents stand beside their kids no matter what, there is disability and mental health rep (babs’ mother has fibromyalgia and depression, babs has depression as well) along with on page use of the word lesbian!!
i really enjoyed this book, it was patient and gentle and i really recommend it if you are looking for a book with faeries and other magical creatures, a lush and green setting, magic and other realms written with such kindness, inclusive language and diversity!!
- no romance
- nonbinary bi mc (they/them), lesbian trans girl mc (she/her), an arab trans boy (he/him), and other queer characters.
' ive since learned there’s an english word for this feeling, this strange and wonderful amorphous all-consuming wonder. nonbinary. '
‘but we have to remember, it’s not up to us to change anyone’s lives, unless they ask.’
'i have a mum, and iris has two. it’s very strange that you have a dad'
where magic breaths freely yet isnt visible to human eyes, three most unlikely of kids make friends.
perfect for young readers, this story is about friendship and acceptance entwined with so much magic, sunshine and awesomeness that if i had to use only two words to describe this book it would be 'unapologetically queer'!!
i feel like the most amazing thing about this book is that there are so many trans characters (: the author themself being nonbinary really does not shy away from introducing queer characters, who are both supportive and loving. it's a beautiful book filled with so many euphoric moments, the friendship is soft and endearing, the kids take pride in their identities, the elders are loving and accepting, the parents stand beside their kids no matter what, there is disability and mental health rep (babs’ mother has fibromyalgia and depression, babs has depression as well) along with on page use of the word lesbian!!
i really enjoyed this book, it was patient and gentle and i really recommend it if you are looking for a book with faeries and other magical creatures, a lush and green setting, magic and other realms written with such kindness, inclusive language and diversity!!
January 7, 2020
So cute and wholesome queer magic goodness. Adorable x three.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews