I Was Born for This

This deeply moving young adult novel by Alice Oseman offers a dual perspective on modern teenage life, following Angel, a devoted fan of the boy band The Ark, and Jimmy, the band's frontman. Angel finds community and purpose in fandom, navigating her Muslim family's lack of understanding. Jimmy, who is trans, grapples with severe anxiety and the public's perception of his bandmates' relationships. The story explores themes of identity, belonging, mental health, and the often-unseen realities behind the glitz of fame. It's a wise and heartfelt coming-of-age story that provides significant LGBTQ+ and cultural representation.

From the bestselling creator of HEARTSTOPPER and LOVELESS, a deeply funny and deeply moving exploration of identity, friendship, and fame. For Angel Rahimi life is about one thing: The Ark -- a boy band that's taking the world by storm. Being part of The Ark's fandom has given her everything she loves -- her friend Juliet, her dreams, her place in the world. Her Muslim family doesn't understand the band's allure -- but Angel feels there are things about her they'll never understand. Jimmy Kaga-Ricci owes everything to The Ark. He's their frontman -- and playing in a band with his mates is all he ever dreamed of doing, even it only amplifies his anxiety. The fans are very accepting that he's trans -- but they also keep shipping with him with his longtime friend and bandmate, Rowan. But Jimmy and Rowan are just friends -- and Rowan has a secret girlfriend the fans can never know about. Dreams don't always turn out the way you think and when Jimmy and Angel are unexpectedly thrust together, they find out how strange and surprising facing up to reality can be. A funny, wise, and heartbreakingly true coming of age novel. I Was Born for This is a stunning reflection of modern teenage life, and the power of believing in something -- especially yourself.