67 pages 2 hours read

Jeff Garvin

Symptoms of Being Human

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2016

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

In Jeff Garvin's Symptoms of Being Human, gender-fluid teenager Riley Cavanaugh navigates the challenges of high school and the public eye as the child of a congressman while blogging anonymously about their experiences. Medical crisis, bullying, and assault are depicted. Through new friendships and family support, Riley finds courage to embrace their identity and advocate for the LGBTQ+ community.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Symptoms of Being Human by Jeff Garvin offers a compelling exploration of gender identity through the eyes of its gender-fluid protagonist. Reviewers praise its empathetic portrayal and relatable characters, though some criticize its pacing and perceived predictability. Overall, the book is lauded for addressing a crucial and underrepresented topic in YA literature.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Symptoms of Being Human?

A reader who would enjoy Symptoms of Being Human by Jeff Garvin is likely interested in contemporary YA fiction with strong themes of gender identity and personal growth. This book will resonate with fans of If I Was Your Girl by Meredith Russo and Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda by Becky Albertalli.

Recommended

Reading Age

13-18years

Lexile Level

HL760L

Book Details

Genre

Realistic Fiction

American Literature

Modern Classic Fiction

Topics

Bullying

LGBTQ

Depression / Suicide

Themes

Identity: Gender

Life/Time: Coming of Age

Values/Ideas: Safety & Danger