Gunner James’s Reviews > Open, Heaven > Status Update

I am utterly in love with this story

This book encaptures what it is like to start understanding your own sexuality. I remember the first time I stole a peek at boys I thought were attractive and the shame I felt after, thinking it wasn't right.

Though I’m only scratching the surface, it’s already clear that it’s bold, beautiful, & profoundly moving. The story of a young boy coming out in a rural town, judged solely for how others perceive him, is deeply relatable & heartbreakingly poignant. There’s a longing in the character’s voice. As I read, I feel the weight of old emotions stirring, connecting me to his journey in an intimate & agonizing way

After finishing Seán Hewitt's memoir, All Down Darkness Wide, I immediately sought out an ARC of Open, Heaven - realeasing early next year. Just the prologue has me captivated! Hewitt’s lyrical writing and masterful storytelling make him one of my favorite author discoveries this year.