
Sara Farizan's 'Tell Me Again How a Crush Should Feel' is a humorous and poignant young adult novel about Leila, an Iranian-American high school student who develops her first crush on a new female classmate, Saskia. The story beautifully explores Leila's internal struggle with her sexuality, her fear of disappointing her parents, and her journey toward self-acceptance. Praised by critics as a welcome addition to the coming-out/coming-of-age genre, this book offers an empowering romance and a relatable protagonist. It's an excellent choice for parents seeking stories that normalize LGBTQIA+ experiences, provide cultural representation, and encourage discussions about identity, friendship, and family expectations for teens aged 12-18.
When Leila develops a crush on a new female student she has to decide if her sexuality is something she wants to share with everyone else.