Not Not Normal

by Peter E. Fenton

Jordan and Nathan couldn’t be more different, but when order and chaos collide, opposites attract. Jordan is a bit of an oddball at school. He likes rules, routine, old sci-fi novels, and is often the victim of his bully’s torment. When new student Nathan joins the school, he wears down Jordan’s walls and, with his love, empowers Jordan to stand up for himself.

Nathan’s parents are going through divorce, and at a new school in a new city Jordan provides him with the stability he can’t find at home. Through their friendship and eventually their romance, Jordan embraces his newfound self-confidence and proclaims his love for Nathan in front of the school. Each is just what the other needs.

Not Not Normal shows readers that sometimes the qualities we need most can be found in and learned from the friends around us. We just need to let them in. Embracing your differences and facing the unknown can be scary, but with true friends and support, you can handle just about anything.

Genres: Romance, Young Adult, Queer, M M Romance, LGBT

184 pages, Paperback

Published January 1, 2025

About the author

It started with poetry. When Peter E. Fenton was having a difficult day, he would put pen to paper and dive into a world of imagination. None of these poems were published. They were kept in a book on a shelf for future reference. A way of looking back at a time and place in life.

But poems led to short stories...tales often told in letter form to amuse friends during their long summers away from home working jobs in theatre.

And then twenty-four years ago he met a composer and writer and they became life partners, and they got the ridiculous idea that perhaps writing musicals and plays would be fun. And so they did that. While his partner wrote on over twenty projects, Peter participated in four of those projects, and these plays were produced across the country, won awards and some were even published.

But life can't all be "play". There was also some work to be done, in this case a 42 year relationship with the Royal Ontario Museum, where Peter spent his time in palaeontology doing collection management and going on expedition in remote locations including the Canadian Rockies, the Northwest Territories and Nunavut.

When the time came to step away from the fossils at the museum, a new passion took hold ...the desire to write a longer narrative...a book... a gay romance. He wanted to write something that would draw on many years of living, loving and exploring the world.

And so with the kind support of his partner, he began writing his first novel, and a publisher expressed interest, and in the spring of 2022 The Woodcarver's Model was released and was a four time nominee in the Goodreads M/M Romance Readers’ Choice Awards.

That was followed by the release of Mann Hunt in the summer of 2023, which was also nominated in the Goodreads M/M Romance Readers’ Choice Awards. The book has just been translated into Spanish.

Last summer, he released Hoodoo House, which is the second part of the Declan Hunt Mysteries series and is now also available in Spanish. The book was nominated for a Goodreads M/M Romance Readers' Choice Award.

In the fall of 2024 his youth novella Not Not Normal published by Lorimer Publishing came out to critical acclaim (and another Goodreads M/M Romance Readers Choice Award nomination)

The third novel in the Declan Hunt Mysteries series entitled The Burnt was released in August of 2025. The final book in the series will come out in the summer of 2026.

PUBLICATIONS

The Burnt (August of 2025)
Not Not Normal (September of 2024)
Hoodoo House (June of 2024)
Mann Hunt (August of 2023)
The Woodcarvers Model (April of 2022)
Bemused or Bonita Goes Bananas
The Giant's Garden (A full length musical)

CONTACTING PETER:

Website: www.peterefenton.ca
Blog: www.peterefenton.ca/blog/
Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/peterefenton...
insta: https://www.instagram.com/peterefento...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/peterefenton...
British Publisher: https://www.pride-publishing.com/inde...
Canadian Publisher: https://lorimer.ca/childrens/contribu...
Email: [email protected]

Reviews

[Mr.Rainbow.Pages]

Review coming soon!

[Zara · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a wholesome young teen read about a neurodivergent boy struggling in school, including lots of OCD/Autism representation & a gay relationship 🌈

It took a little bit to get used to the style as it's definitely aimed at younger readers and is more factual rather than descriptive/frivolous, but once I settled into a few chapters I really enjoyed the storyline and seeing the characters develop!

The friendships in this book are really wholesome but also realistic wiht each character having both good and bad traits. Some quotes in this book really resonated and stuck with me, especially the advice given to Jordan from Nathan 🫂

Would recommend this to fellow autistic people looking for a comforting quick & easy read :)

[Anniek · Rating 4 out of 5]

Many thanks to Pride Book Tours and the author for the digital review copy.

I was in need of a comfort read when I picked this up, and it proved to be an excellent one. In my opinion, comfort reads should be on the shorter side so you can read them in one sitting, so I was glad that this was under 200 pages, and I did indeed read it in one sitting. It was a very sweet read with friendship and romance and building self confidence. There are harder themes like grief and bullying, which only made the book feel more realistic, without taking away from the cosy, comforting vibes. I thought Jordan was a really loveable main character, and this book gave me exactly what I was hoping to get from it.

[Bookstarreviews_ · Rating 3 out of 5]

3⭐️

AD-PR PRODUCT ~ Blog Tour

A heartwarmingly sweet YA queer romance. ☺️

This was a lovely and short book which yielded an important message. I loved the leading protagonists and found many aspects of the read relatable.

Jordan is sure he’s not normal. It’s not that he’s gay. It’s other things, like how he sticks to himself, is the president of an unpopular book club and has panic attacks. His best friend Emma tries to convince him that this is his year of change, but Jordan isn’t so sure. He doesn’t want change, he wants to be in control. Jordan’s world is turned upside down when he meets Nathan who has a strong disregard for the rules. When Nathan starts to show interest in Jordan as more than a friend, things start to get ... out of control. Will Jordan find the strength to let go, or will he push away his chance to find love?

Set in Grade 11 (Sixth Form in the UK), this coming-of-age book was so easy and quick to read and loosely reminded me of Heartstopper. With themes of grief, bullying, anxiety, sexuality, acceptance, friendship, romance and found-family, this read really packed a lot in a small amount of time.

I loved Jordan’s character. Fenton alluded at his protagonist having OCD and I liked this representation. Every time Jordan felt like he had no control, I was glad I could turn the page to, in a way, help him regain it or learn to accept change. Emma was a great friend to Jordan and I loved how the friendship theme reverberated throughout this read. I enjoyed watching Jordan’s character progression.

Nathan’s headstrong personality was also likeable and I loved his interactions with Jordan. We all need a Nathan in our lives. I liked the secondary characters in the book club too, but most importantly Mr Fenton. He was a true role model to Jordan and a wonderful man.

What stood out to me the most in this book, and as like the title suggests, is the message that normal does not exist. Everyone is special, different and unique in their own way and it’s important to embrace it.

A huge thank you to @pridebooktours for having me on this tour and for the e-book of Not Not Normal which is out now. 🥰

⚠️Please check out the trigger warnings!⚠️

[Lu · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely adorable story of two boys with their own life struggles. I loved both Jordan and Nathan's personalities, they complete each other and were so cute and sweet together.

[noorthebookworm · Rating 5 out of 5]

NOT NOT NORMAL
-a gay love story for young readers.
🙋🏻‍♀️but it was much much more for me🫶🏻. A heartwarming story about struggling with loss, grief, anxiety, self acceptance, bullying, OCD but the silver lining was beautiful friendships, a heartwarming father- son relationship, finding true love & ofcourse books 📚.
.
#teenandyoungadult #loners #outcasts #bullying #romanticcomedy
.
There was so much encapsulated in this 184 page book, encompassing 28 short chapters, that it made my heart swell with emotions & left a lingering smile on my face.
It can easily be consumed in a single sitting.
.
🌹There are so many wonderful moments in this book 📖.
•When Emma understands him so well & stands by Jordon in every situation, pushing him, delicately, all the time, be it at home as well as at school.
•The #bookclub that they had
•Jordon's love for books, how they support him & his memories of his mom, reading to him, leaving a legacy of books especially with annotations & notes, so much so that he turned his entire room into a library with his bed in the corner.
•The most precious was when he found the note in the book left by his mother for him at the right time.
•How Nathan came into his life & accepted & made him blossom & bloom, beautifully.
•Also the caretaker, Mr. Jenkins was such a wonderful supporting character.
•The mention of books throughout the story & the play #twelfthnight by #shakespeare
.
🍁This is a story which would be RELATABLE at some or the other instance & would definitely be helpful for #teens & #kids
.
#lgbtq #gay #lesbian #pride

-----
📍Blurb:
Jordan and Nathan couldn't be more different, but when order and chaos collide, opposites attract.

Jordan is a bit of an oddball at school. He likes rules, routine, old sci-fi novels, and is often the victim of his bully's torment. When new student Nathan joins the school, he wears down Jordan's walls and, with his love, empowers Jordan to stand up for himself.

Nathan's parents are going through a divorce, and at a new school in a new city, Jordan provides him with the stability he can't find at home. Through their friendship and eventually their romance, Jordan embraces his newfound self-confidence and proclaims his love for Nathan in front of the school. Each is just what the other needs.

Not Not Normal shows readers that sometimes the qualities we need most can be found in and learned from the friends around us. We just need to let them in. Embracing your differences and facing the unknown can be scary, but with true friends and support, there is nothing you can't handle.
___
📍an excerpt:
He paused then asked Nathan, “Why do you like me?” Nathan thought for a moment before answering. “I like the way you’re so tightly wound up. It’s cute.” “Cute?” “Actually, adorable is a better word.” “I’m a freak. Just ask anyone. Ask Brody.” “You think I’d take his word on anything?” Jordan snorted. “Well, I’m not what you’d call normal.” “What’s normal? Normal’s boring. Normal’s being everyone else. It’s . . . spaghetti without the sauce. You wanna be that?” “It would be less exhausting,” Jordan replied. “Yeah, I guess it’s easier to be like that kid in English class. The one in the third row by the window.” “And what’s wrong with him?” Jordan asked. “He picks his nose and eats it.” “Ewwwwww!” “You wanna eat your own snot?” Nathan asked, before reaching out and tickling Jordan’s ribs. He leaned in and gave Jordan a kiss. “I like you just the way you are.”

[Pam Withers · Rating 3 out of 5]

This short, “rapid read” novel features two 16-year-old boys with very different personalities who fall in love. One (Nathan, a new kid) is well out of the closet and rather over-the-top assertive; he takes no prisoners when it comes to those who would attempt to bully him or put down queerness. The other (protagonist Jordan) is shy and fearful, has yet to embrace his queerness and suffers from obsessive compulsive disorder, bullying and panic attacks. He even has a fear of public bathrooms and public speaking.
It's a story that will build confidence in anyone who feels so “different” that they sometimes feel they’re simply “not normal.” Indeed, the reader learns actual coping mechanisms for that.
We see everything through Jordan’s third-person point of view. He’s trying to decide when or if to come out and he wavers between excitement and wariness over his attraction to Nathan.
Both boys exhibit strong character arcs in the story, which makes it a rewarding read; they complement each other nicely.
Interestingly, both boys suffer from parental loss: Jordan’s mother died and Nathan’s dad left. Worse, they blame themselves for these tragedies. And yet, the author fails to truly explore this trauma, spending barely a few paragraphs on them, in a curiously bland and hurried way.
Another negative is the story’s bully, Brody, a cardboard character with absolutely no personality or purpose other than to bully the boys in predictable ways on occasion. Similarly, Jordan’s father is underdeveloped as a character.
Then there’s Jordan’s friend Emma, a lively girl who serves as Jordan’s protector and ally. And a janitor who does the same.
The climax is disappointing, in that Jordan, Nathan and friends present a play for the student body that requires a kiss between Jordan and Nathan. This is the coming-out moment to which the entire novel has been building up, and yet it unfolds with almost no dialogue and only observed action, which truly robs it of power. That’s called telling rather than showing, a weakness in writing.
Even so, the novel carries us right along and we can’t help but care about these boys. I love the title, which broadcasts the message that people like Jordan are “not not normal.” It’s a heartfelt tale even if the writing lacks verve. And it offers important reflection points. It’s recommended both for straight and queer readers.
This review also appears at www.YAdudebooks.ca

[Kristel Greer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was sent a copy of this book for review.

This was an emotional read as it resonated on a personal level in many ways. Like Jordan I have lost a parent recently and the pain and sadness that you experience in this situation can affect many aspects of your life. But on top of that I can also relate to Nathan as my parents separated and it wasn’t the nicest split and I was often in the middle of things which leaves lasting marks on you, especially the feeling you might have been part of problem when you really weren’t. Having this connection to the two main characters gave me a deeper insight into their lives than other characters I have read which made it a more meaningful story to me.

The portrayal of Jordan’s behavioural issues was brilliantly done and given importance in the story. I felt this side of mental health issues needs to be addressed more in books especially ones aimed for younger audiences. The added aspect of bullying and how the constant threat of being harassed, belittled, and made to feel “othered” by bullies is incredibly damaging at an early age even more so for LGBTQIA+ youth who suffer this in higher amounts often leading to self-harm. I felt this was dealt with compassion and care. I loved that Nathan was an advocate for himself and others against the bullying even when he felt the horrible effects of the words said.

Nathan and Jordan’s developing friendship and growing romance was sweet but not without its angst-filled moments. They were both going through a lot of trauma and changes, and I loved how they were able to support each other at their lowest moments and able help lift each other up to see how amazing and special they were. The concept of Not Not Normal is that normal doesn’t exist in the world and even if it did why would you want to hide away what makes us different and unique. It is an idea that should be embraced by everyone.

Overall, I felt that even though the story wasn’t very long it packed in plenty of drama, self-reflection, joy, inclusive friendships, and positive life lessons. I look forward to reading more from this author.

[The Bookish Chimera - Pauline · Rating 4 out of 5]

“If broken books could be healed, why couldn’t he?”

Jordan’s story was a very cute (and short) one. I found that his relationship with the world, a bit unmatching, was really well written. Not Not Normal is a great story about grief (in multiple forms), about how you can stand again, about how love can help you to grow. It’s also a story about the will (and need) to fit. And it’s also a cute love story between two teenage boys, even though it isn’t the main focus of the book.
Like Nathan –the other protagonist– says, we all have difficulties to find our place in the world, even if Jordan’s are more complex and probably linked to his neurodivergence. In this book especially –and for the reason mentioned above– I really liked that Jordan’s neurodiversity wasn’t labeled precisely. It made the story more universal, but also made his difficulties just a part of who he is, not all of him (I know some people in the autistic community don’t agree with me, but it is how I personally feel). I also enjoyed how books (and writing) make a link between the characters, and are the red line of this story.
My only regret might be that the resolution feels a bit too easy, as if wanting to belong, and act on it is enough. Yes, Jprdan’s friends help him to boost his confidence, and maybe it is because the book is a YA one, and the author wants to instil some hope (which is super nice). Maybe it’s because it is a short book.
Yet, my experience as a neurodivergent person isn’t that, and things need to change in the environment too (same for grief). But in any case, I loved how Nathan helps Jordan and his dad to move forward, and I truly enjoyed the romance between them.

PS: it is mentioned at the beginning of the book, but check your triggers. There is some parental homophobia in this book. It isn’t on page, but it lingers a lot. In my opinion, it added depth to the characters, but be warned if it can trigger you.


Thank you Pride Book Tour, Peter E. Fenton and Lorimer for the ARC of this book. My opinions are my own.

[Georgina Power · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a book that stated it shows “readers that sometimes the qualities we need most can be found in and learned from the friends around us” Which is what this book did, Jordan’s close friend Emma was a wonderfully supportive character, and with their small found family in the book club they all managed to overcome personal goals.

This book, to me, is more of a novella as it’s only 130 pages long, but it is a lovely quick minimal drama meet cute, with short chapters. I was completely engrossed and invested in the characters throughout. With Jordan, our MC, there are hints of OCD and anxiety with his behaviours. However, to me, this is only surface touched, so I really would have loved there to
be more depth brought into understanding Jordan and his experiences/feelings.

The book setting is high school, and they are all developing a presentation for an English
assignment, and I loved how they all came together, and you could see the work put in,
especially by Nathan and Jordan, they really helped each other grow and develop as promised in the book's synopsis.

Plus, the relationships in this book are all well written and touched upon, such as Jordan and his dad, as well as his kinship with his fellow book readers and the school’s caretaker who really helped Jordan to feel comfortable in his own space, that was lovely to see that there are adults who want to support and help.

I loved that there were mentions of popular culture throughout the book, including
references to Shakespear and other books/authors, plus my complete shock at the mention of my all-time favourite movie! (you’ll have to read it to know the answer to that!)

Overall, I just wish the book was longer, I was really interested in the characters and the book club and would have loved for the story to have been longer and expanded, or maybe even a
sequel now to see how they are all getting on.

However, that doesn’t take away that this is
still a lovely and quick read with an adorable ending, it was a lovely Happy Ever After!
Comments:

TW: Homophobia, homophobic slurs

[Ulysses Dietz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not Not Normal
BY Peter E. Fenton
Published by James Lorimer & Co., 2024
Five stars

My gateway to contemporary gay romance was through young adult (YA) novels. You’d think this particular facet of storytelling would get old, fast. Yet it doesn’t. Not for me.

Peter Fenton’s “Not Not Normal” adheres to the rules, and yet not quite. Jordan Shepherd is the high-anxiety nerd in his eleventh-grade class in Toronto. He’s OCD, something that has only been exacerbated by the death of his mother. His father is gentle and loving, but still somewhat withdrawn. Jordan’s best friend Emma (reminding me of Pippi Longstocking) is his biggest supporter and his harshest critic.

Into Jordan’s very controlled life crashes Nathan, a fearless young man who can’t tolerate injustice. His parents are both alive, but divorced—which he seems to think is his fault. Nathan immediately joins Jordan’s after-school book club and clearly is drawn to him—much to Jordan’s chagrin and joy.

Although there are bullies in this book, it’s not about bullying. Coming out is important, but not remotely the point. As simple as it seems, the book is really about kids helping each other through the pitfalls of being teenagers. About giving up control; about learning how to support and help your friends; about coming to terms with who you are without shame or fear.

It seems so obvious and undramatic—and yet it sparked tears for me repeatedly, as Fenton’s story touched on things that took me back half a century to my own eleventh grade experience. He writes all of these young people vividly and authentically. He gives them quiet heroes and doesn’t waste too much time on the bullies—who, after all, are not important.

I am always surprised and gratified when another YA book moves me and makes me happy. Each one is a new experience, and in the hands of a writer as gifted as Fenton, a rewarding one.

[Shawna (endemictoearth) · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars, rounding up - I'm a young adult librarian, so I went into this knowing it is aimed at a younger audience, specifically as a hi-lo title for readers who might be struggling to tackle more complex material and have tried to rate/review it as such. I think this is my third or fourth book from this particular line from Lorimer Publishing and while this one not my favorite, I do think it has some good points.

My favorite thing was the book group, X-Libris, and their journey to find a new space. Mr. Jenkins was an awesome role model (love non-teacher adults who have hidden depths). Jordan's dad was also a nuanced character who we can see trying to be a good dad, but also dealing with his own grief. (Speaking of dads, I feel like Nathan's backstory was given short shrift, but it didn't bother me too much.)

The main thing that I think may stop younger readers from immersing themselves in this book is Jordan himself. Not because of his quirks or panic attacks, but because I just didn't get a good sense of why he was so anti-technology. Kids use phones and computers and I think having a character who is so young and deliberately avoids tech needs to be given more on page explanation. It stood out more than it had to, and I wondered if maybe the book should have been set in an earlier decade.

To end on a positive note (because I truly did enjoy the book overall), I liked that there was a sprinkle of romance between Jordan and Nathan, but to me, the friend group was the shining star of this book.

[Precociousp · Rating 4 out of 5]

Peter E. Fenton's Not Not Normal is a heartfelt coming-of-age story about two young boys, offering a touching and emotional exploration of love, identity, and self-acceptance. It’s always a pleasure to read young love stories, and Fenton does a remarkable job bringing both the characters and their journey to life.

Jordan’s behavioral struggles are portrayed with depth and sensitivity, highlighting an aspect of mental health that deserves more attention—especially in books aimed at younger audiences. The novel also addresses bullying with unflinching honesty, showing how the constant threat of harassment, belittlement, and isolation can be devastating, particularly for LGBTQIA+ youth. Fenton handles these themes with compassion, making it clear how deeply words and actions can wound, while also emphasizing resilience. I especially appreciated how Nathan became an advocate for himself and others, even as he struggled with the pain of being targeted.

Nathan and Jordan’s evolving friendship and romance are beautifully developed, full of sweet and angst-filled moments. Both boys are navigating trauma and change, yet their ability to support and uplift each other makes their connection all the more powerful. At its core, Not Not Normal challenges the idea of "normal," reminding us that if such a thing even exists, there’s no reason to hide what makes us unique. It’s a message that should resonate with everyone.

[Heather MMRomanceReviewed]

This book is part of a series aimed at young adults and is good for readers who may struggle with reading because it's both concise and written with the audience in mind, so very well word-smithed for it's audience.

As an adult reader, I enjoyed getting to know Jordan, his bestie Emma and Nathan, as well as their friends in the book club, Mr. Jenkins and of course Jordan's father. The book tackled several relatable issues including panic attacks, homophobic classmates, not fitting in, grieving and more. While I can't speak to the realistic nature of being a high schooler in today's world, I could easily picture my own kids going to school with Jordan and his friends and because I live in the same neighborhood as the author, I know exactly which path the boys went down one day (which as a life long East End Torontonian was lovely).

I've recommended this book to my almost 14 year old, since they fit both the demographic and the reading level this book is aimed at.. I'll update my review with their thoughts in a few weeks once the new school year has started to settle and I can get him to read fiction for pleasure again.

On a personal note, I hope Pete continues to write for this series as new ideas develop - it's such an underserviced sector and we definitely need more queer YA rep!

[Jerome · Rating 5 out of 5]

Peter Fenton’s new novel Not Not Normal centers around Jordan, a bright, quiet, and bookish teenager who likes order, loves to read, and limits his social interactions to three other people.

In addition to a deep aversion to change, Jo
rdan is troubled by grief, social anxiety, and the relentless torment from school bullies who consider him a “freak” and a “weirdo.”

Into Jordan’s bubble of control bursts a new kid at school named Nathan, who is everything Jordan isn’t: extroverted, spontaneous, outspoken, and fearless. Jordan initially views the newcomer as disruptive to his ordered world, but Nathan— through the sheer goodness of his soul and his irresistible personality — wins a place in Jordan’s heart. With Nathan’s help, Jordan learns to accept and defend the deepest parts of himself, embrace change, and face his fears and anxiety, while providing love, understanding and acceptance in return.

Not Not Normal is a sweet and uplifting tale that will resonate with anyone and everyone who has ever been mocked, ostracized, or bullied just for not conforming to what others consider “normal.” Fenton’s prose is effortless, his sense of setting is palpable, and his characters are completely endearing and relatable. As a life-long nerd and introvert, I identified with Jordan from the start and cheered for him all the way through!

[Bill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not Not Normal is a well-written, sweet, novella-length YA book that, while it does not break new ground in terms of high school tropes (bullied nerd with anxiety/open guy who helps him out of his shell), is so darned sweet and has characters you just root for. Another trope, loss of a parent through death or divorce also comes into play--but Jordan's father is sympathetically yet realistically drawn--and he saves a bird!

Jordan is dreading the start of another high school year where his main focus is as head of the book club (his mother, who has passed, was a big reader). He is terrified of having panic attacks, and his fears mean that he has to follow rules and all of his pens and pencils have to be lined up. And then he meets, Nathan, the new guy who upends his world. We watch Jordan slowly open up under Nathan's influence.

There are several interesting side characters, Mr. Jenkins, the school caretaker, and Jordan's bestie, Emma. Things get wrapped up very neatly at the end.

While for an adult, the messages are obvious and the ending a bit too pat, for LGBTQ+ youth in high school, this book could be a life saver. It is also a balm for any of us older folk who grew up feeling different. If only we had all had a Nathan and a friend like Emma!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[shar · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.25 stars

Relatable, comforting and inspiring. This book was written amazingly by a young neurodivergent boy experiencing grief, queer love and high school bullying. I could see myself in Jordan and the need for control, routines and order in life. The way panic attacks and meltdowns were described was real and raw. Describe how the body feels and the need to grasp things to regulate. Shows a great representation of OCD, social anxiety and possibly autism.

Nathan is a loveable character who shows you can act brave on the outside but struggle on the inside. He is funny, quick-witted and stands up for what he believes in. However, he hid his struggles with his family life behind a mask of bravery.

The writing style is simplistic, juvenile and young however, it is to be expected in a YA / Teen book. (Which is why I rated the book 3.25 stars.) However, it was quite descriptive around routines and places or things go wrong when Jordan feels like he isn't in control. This description replicates a neurodivergent mind of how autistic people may see little detail looking at the smaller picture and things to the exact minute.

[Sasha · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Not Not Normal" by Peter E. Fenton is a heartwarming and relatable novel that explores themes of self-acceptance, anxiety, and first love. The story follows Jordan, a introverted and anxious high school student who struggles to find his place in the world.

Jordan's journey is deeply personal and authentic, making it easy to connect with his character. His struggles with panic attacks, grief, and feelings of isolation will resonate with many readers. The author's portrayal of anxiety is particularly noteworthy, capturing the intense fear and helplessness that often accompanies it.

The arrival of Nathan, a charismatic and confident new student, sets Jordan's world spinning. Their romance is sweet and tender, and Nathan's unwavering acceptance of Jordan's quirks and flaws is a powerful reminder of the transformative power of love.

Through Jordan's story, Fenton shines a light on the importance of embracing our true selves, rather than trying to conform to societal norms. The book's message is clear: being different is not something to be ashamed of, but rather something to be celebrated.

Overall, "Not Not Normal" is a delightful and uplifting read that will resonate with anyone who has ever felt like they don't quite fit in. With its positive portrayal of LGBTQ+ characters, exploration of mental health, and sweet romance, this book is a must-read for teens and adults alike.

[Traci S · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5⭐️
Loved this! High school is tough, especially when you feel like an outcast. The author perfectly captures the unique challenges of High School- of learning where you fit in. I was so hoping Jordan would find a comfortable place to land. This was a beautiful and hopeful story about families dealing with grief, strong friendships, and the exhilaration of a first love. Gosh, Jordan and Nathan were crazy sweet together, I loved how Nathan is so accepting and kind with Jordan. I definitely wish every kid had a friend like Emma, Jordan’s amazing, sometimes bossy, and protective best friend. She was awesome! Another highlight for me was rooting for Jordan and his dad to find some healing. Their grief since losing Jordan’s mom to cancer, is a living breathing thing keeping them isolated despite living in the same apartment. This was wonderful!

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.

[Elizabeth D · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5/5 This was a beautiful love letter to being yourself and learning to value yourself as you are and not as society dictates you should be. Jordan is a bit of an anxious mess, and he’s constantly striving to fit in and be “normal” in the hopes of making life easier. He’s just started grade 11, and high school is a microcosm of how good and terrible the wild can be. Enter chaos storm Nathan, who helps him see that being exactly who he is—while also challenging himself—can be liberating and fulfilling.

There’s a little bit of teen drama, but mostly, this just really feels like people trying to navigate an imperfect world. I loved the X-Libris book club crew, Mr. Jenkins, Nathan’s stubbornness, Jordan’s love of his mother and her books, and taking a leap into the stage. There should definitely be more books like this in the world.

I received an ARC from BookSirens. This is my honest review.

[Heather Duff · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blog | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook

I don’t read a lot of YA, but if they were all like this, I totally would. Not Not Normal was a touching and uplifting story that anyone who wasn’t ‘normal’ in school could relate to. Finding the tribe of people, friends or lovers, that appreciate you just the way you are.

Jordan and Nathan are both pretty special guys and they make each other's lives so much bigger and more interesting, while also supporting each other, in the ways they can, through the big emotions and frustrations they are experiencing in their lives.

It was such a warm and rich read, and I love the ease in which you could connect with the characters.

[Alix · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a sweet novella that hits just right for late middle school/early high school YA audience. In fact, I will encourage my 7th grader to read it. I liked seeing Jordan growing by addressing his issues, especially since it is an ongoing process. I also enjoyed the light romance between Nathan and Jordan that developed after they had already become friends. One of my fave parts was when Jordan found a way to stand up for himself in order to deal with the bully - but not in a way that put him in danger (i.e. it was non-confrontational).

My fave part of the book was the friend group/book club. Emma in particular was such a non-judgy, supportive friend. Nathan himself was a breath of fresh air with all of his enthusiasm, especially when he was also struggling with home life issues.

Overall, this is a lovely story.

[Pat · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not Normal by Peter E Fenton is composed magnificently bringing Jordan and Nathan’s journey to life.
An adorable storytelling of their struggles.
Emma is a gem, absolutely no judgment from her at all hopefully everyone has had a friend like Emma in their life.
Did I feel for Jordan, did I ever? My heart was breaking for him he needed Nathan with his openness and his courage.
Nathan was so bold but so very tender at the same time.
Jordon‘s father who was so understanding of his son's feelings, I have tears while writing this as the honesty in this story is so real!
Mr Jenkins with his kind heart and thoughtfulness and his safe place stole my heart plus the security he gave the group was perfection...

[L H · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such an encouraging story to read because it is the story of two young men who for their own reasons benefit from the friendship that they develop with one another. The oddball and the new kid at school develop a friendship and then more but first and most important, a friendship. For Nathan whose parents are splitting and who is in a new school, Jordan is an anchor. Stability in a new place that he needs. And with Nathan in his life and in his corner Jordan starts to come into his own and develops more confidence. This was such a sweet and hopeful story. Something I needed to read in these sometimes too doomy days!
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[andshe.reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

This novel is relatable and covers topics of self-acceptance, first love, anxiety, bullying, and so much more in between. It would be an absolute perfect read for late primary and high school-aged young people. However, I'm 6 I still enjoyed it.

The author captured the high school scene to a tee, it's a tough world when you feel like you don't fit in, which is how Jordan feels. Alongside battling school, he is also struggling with grief and learning to love himself. So I loved that he found an ally in Nathan.

It is such a heartwarming book that I highly recommend.

Thank you to Pride Book tours & the author for a digital review copy.

[Bailey · Rating 3 out of 5]

I am not a novella fan. Generally, I find too many things are left unsaid in order to keep a book to that length, which makes for a nice afternoon's read, but not enough character nor plot development. I chose to read Not Not Normal because I am a fan of YA fiction and enjoyed Jordan and Nathan's story. That said, I was frustrated with the degree to which Jordan gets past/over his many issues with almost no on page (or even referenced off page) work. Likewise, there are issues for Nathan that are dropped. In the end, I liked their friendship and budding relationship but too many threads were resolved too easily, while others were left unresolved. 2.5 rounded up to 3.

[Derek · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a well-written, beautiful, and kind story. I wish books like this were around when I was teenager and so grateful that young people today can find themselves, or parts of themselves, in literature.

The main character is coping with one of life's greatest losses, and also living with some neurological issues that bring both gifts and challenges. Then along comes a person who sees, and loves, them with totality. Let the healing begin!

Special thanks to the author for providing an ARC for this voluntary review.

Grateful to have read this wonderful book. Hope it makes it way to libraries everywhere.

[Kitty · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a cute little book that sometimes read more like a play than a book, fittingly enough for the subject matter. The cast were strong and consistent characters, and I liked the message. It felt at one remove for me, like I was watching the characters rather than inhabiting them, and I think it would be great on stage. It was very sweet, and I liked the delicate portrayal of a developing romance between Jordan and Nathan.

[Saskia Veldhuis · Rating 4 out of 5]

A lovely YA shortish story with two teenage MCs experiencing some big life changes at a pivotal time of growing up and self-discovery. Jordan struggled a lot with shyness and anxiety, but gradually, with support from his friends and especially Nathan, discovered that he could become capable of a lot more than he ever thought possible. The people in the book felt very realistic and I would have loved to have more of this type of story to read when I was that age.

[Deb Kel · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was such a beautiful journey between Jordan and Nathan who are complete opposites. The relationship development between them was brilliantly written and I loved how Nathan protected Jordan and brought him out of his shell and gives him the strength to stand up for himself. Definitely worth the read.
I received a free arc copy from GRR and this is my honest review