Left Bank Books Foundation presents teacher, advocate, and husband of former presidential candidate Pete ButtigiegThe young adult adaptation of the moving, hopeful, and refreshingly candid memoir by the husband of a former Democratic presidential candidate about growing up gay in his small Midwestern town.
Growing up, Chasten Glezman Buttigieg didn't always fit in. He felt different from his father and brothers, who loved to hunt and go camping, and out of place in the rural, conservative small town where he lived. Back then, blending in was more important than feeling seen.
So, when Chasten realized he was gay, he kept that part of himself hidden away for a long, painful time. With incredible bravery, and the support of his loved ones, Chasten eventually came out--and when he did, he learned that being true to himself was the most rewarding journey of all.
Finding acceptance and self-love can seem like a tremendous challenge, but it's never impossible. With honesty, courage, and warmth, Chasten relays his experience of growing up in America and embracing his identity, while inspiring young people across the country to do the same.
Review Quotes:
"What a gift it is to walk alongside Chasten Buttigieg on his journey from small-town theater kid to political trailblazer. Buttigieg's story is heartfelt, specific, and entirely his own--but it's also a pitch-perfect snapshot of our rapidly shifting cultural landscape. It's a perfect juxtaposition of ordinary and extraordinary, told with humor, compassion, and unshakable hope."--Becky Albertalli, New York Times bestselling author of Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda
"Chasten speaks to his readers as a trusted friend, reminding anyone who feels 'different' that they are not alone, and that learning to love and embrace what makes us different may be the greatest gift we can give ourselves."--Dustin Lance Black, filmmaker and LGBTQ+ activist
"As I was reading this book, I couldn't help but think, 'I wish I had had THIS when I was growing up!' Chasten reminds us that we are not alone, and that while choosing to live authentically can bring challenges, self-doubt and 'hater-ade' from outside forces, it can also bring out the joy in life, pride in ourselves, and the love the world so badly needs more of.This book is a joyous and authentic gift to generations of young people. I wish I could have had this when I was growing up!"--Ariana DeBose, Academy Award-winning actress, dancer, and singer
"Sharing our stories can encourage others to feel less alone, and Chasten tells his with courage and compassion, opening the door for younger generations to create and live in a more inclusive world."--Ellen DeGeneres, New York Times bestselling author of Seriously . . . I'm Kidding
"At times gut-wrenching and always honest, Chasten's story makes us laugh and root for ourselves in this profoundly personal yet necessary story about hope, inclusion, and allyship."--Billy Eichner, comedian, actor, producer, and screenwriter
"So many young people are going to see themselves reflected in Chasten's words, and feel held up to a warm light of love that might otherwise be missing from their community."--Ashley C. Ford, New York Times bestselling author of Somebody's Daughter: A Memoir
"Identity can be tough to navigate as a teenager. Chasten's book reminds everyone of the joy and empowerment that embracing your authentic self can bring. This book is like the smile your fourteen-year-old-self might have needed. I loved it! Such wonderful reassurance that it's okay to feel different, and that our senses of self and identity can constantly change over time. Told with candor and grace, this book is a joyous reminder to be kind to yourself."--Kal Penn, bestselling author of You Can't Be Serious
"Honest and incredibly moving, I Have Something to Tell You is a deeply relatable story that will resonate with any teen who's searching for their place in this world."--Phil Stamper, bestselling author of The Gravity of Us and Small Town Pride
"Unflinchingly honest and at the same time comforting, this memoir is an honest portrayal of finding not only acceptance in the world, but accepting one's self."--Kosoko Jackson, award-winning author of I'm So (Not) Over You
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