Wide Awake

"Wide Awake" by David Levithan is a thought-provoking novel set in a near-future America where a gay Jewish man has been elected president. The story follows sixteen-year-old Duncan and his boyfriend, Jimmy, as they become actively involved in rallies and protests after a governor attempts to invalidate crucial election votes. This book masterfully blends political action with a touching teen love story, exploring themes of identity, social justice, and the importance of standing up for one's beliefs. It's an insightful read, prompting discussions about fairness, activism, and personal growth within a politically charged landscape.

In the not-too-impossible-to-imagine future, a gay Jewish man has been elected president of the United States. Until the governor of one state decides that some election results in his state are invalid, awarding crucial votes to the other candidate, and his fellow party member. Thus is the inspiration for couple Jimmy and Duncan to lend their support to their candidate by deciding to take part in the rallies and protests. Along the way comes an exploration of their relationship, their politics, and their country, and sometimes, as they learn, it's more about the journey than it is about reaching the destination.Only David Levithan could so masterfully and creatively weave together a plot that's both parts political action and reaction, as well as a touching and insightfully-drawn teen love story.From the Hardcover edition.