What's Happening?
Married authors Raphael Simon, known as Pseudonymous Bosch, and Phillip De Leon are set to release their first co-written queer young adult rom-com, 'Don't Tell Me What Happens,' in April 2027. Published by Farrar, Straus and Giroux Books for Young Readers,
the novel weaves together two teen love stories: one set in the present day, written by Simon, and another in the 1980s, penned and illustrated by De Leon. The 1980s narrative draws inspiration from De Leon's real-life secret relationship during his time at an all-boys Catholic high school in Los Angeles. The contemporary story follows 16-year-old Noah, who discovers an 80s journal belonging to a high school artist named Diego. This journal chronicles Diego's secret romance with Casey, a closeted surfer, and includes a note from Diego instructing the finder to deliver it to Casey. The novel explores Diego and Casey's courtship, the homophobia they face, and Diego's coming-of-age in Manhattan during the AIDS era, while also detailing Noah and Tomo's growing relationship as they search for Casey.
Why It's Important?
This collaboration marks a significant entry into the queer YA romance genre, offering a multi-generational perspective on LGBTQ+ experiences. By intertwining a contemporary love story with one from the 1980s, the novel aims to bridge two distinct eras of queer history, highlighting both progress and enduring challenges. The inclusion of De Leon's personal experiences from the 1980s provides an authentic historical context, which can resonate with readers seeking diverse narratives and historical depth in YA literature. The book's exploration of themes like secret relationships, homophobia, and coming-of-age during the AIDS epidemic offers valuable insights into the social and emotional landscapes faced by queer individuals across different decades. This work contributes to the growing body of literature that fosters empathy and understanding for LGBTQ+ youth and their allies, potentially influencing broader societal conversations about acceptance and historical awareness.
What's Next?
The novel 'Don't Tell Me What Happens' is scheduled for publication in April 2027 by Farrar, Straus and Giroux Books for Young Readers. Leading up to its release, promotional activities are expected to highlight the unique collaborative process between Simon and De Leon, as well as the dual-timeline narrative structure. The book's editor, Mekisha Telfer, describes it as a 'light-hearted, romantic mystery' with deeper themes designed to challenge readers and encourage further questions, suggesting that the book will likely be positioned as both an engaging romance and a thought-provoking piece of historical fiction. Given the authors' established careers—Simon as a bestselling middle-grade author and De Leon as a textile designer and jazz singer making his literary debut—the book is anticipated to attract attention from both existing fan bases and new readers interested in queer YA literature. The authors' personal connection to the story and their collaborative writing process may also be a focus in future interviews and marketing efforts.
Beyond the Headlines
The novel's dual narrative, spanning the 1980s and the present day, offers a unique opportunity to explore the evolution of queer identity and acceptance in American society. By contrasting the experiences of Diego and Casey with those of Noah and Tomo, the book can subtly highlight the shifts in social attitudes, legal frameworks, and community support for LGBTQ+ individuals over several decades. This intergenerational dialogue within the story serves as a 'love letter from one queer generation to the next,' as described by De Leon, fostering a sense of historical continuity and shared experience among queer youth. The inclusion of De Leon's illustrations and collaged ephemera further enriches the narrative, providing a multi-sensory experience that can deepen readers' engagement with the historical context. This artistic integration underscores the idea that personal stories and artistic expression are crucial in preserving and transmitting queer history, making the book not just a romance but also a cultural artifact reflecting on the past and present of queer life.
