SuitabookSimon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda
Becky Albertalli
- Reading
- Read alongside an open conversation about consent, privacy, respectful language and support when someone comes out. Pause after bullying or drinking scenes to ask how the characters respond and what help might be appropriate.
- Themes
- Coming out and identity: Simon comes out as gay, while other teenagers also come out to friends or family. The story presents identity discovery as part of growing up. The treatment appears supportive of honest self-understanding and LGBTQ+ identities rather than presenting them as problems.
- Privacy, coercion and online communication: Simon communicates with an anonymous email correspondent, and another boy blackmails him after discovering he is gay. The story appears to value emotional connection while also showing that private communication can be vulnerable to coercion and harm.
- Friendship, love and accountability: Simon navigates friendships and a first relationship, recognises that he needs to be a better friend, and encounters characters who make mistakes and apologise. The relationships are portrayed as emotionally meaningful but imperfect, with growth and repair treated as important parts of connection.
- Worth knowing
- Consider whether the reader would welcome direct treatment of sexuality, discriminatory language, coming out and first romance. Drinking, sexual discussion, blackmail and bullying may merit a brief conversation before or during reading.