The Lesbiana's Guide to Catholic School by Sonora Reyes

But if Yami wants to maintain her relationship with her mother, getting to know another lesbian, let alone dating one, isn’t an option. Slayton’s only bright spot is outspoken Chinese American lesbian Bo Taylor, the only openly queer person at school. But Slayton Catholic presents new problems: her mother expects Yami to watch over her younger brother Cesar, who is navigating depression the student body is overwhelmingly white and it’s difficult to keep her re-closeted mouth shut around the homophobia that’s seemingly baked into the curriculum. Luckily, her mother didn’t find out, and since no one at her new school knows she’s queer, Yami plans to keep it that way. Difficult topics, such as suicide, are explored.Transferring to a new school should mean a fresh start for 16-year-old Mexican American lesbian Yamilet Flores, one that she desperately needs after being outed at her old school by her crush and ex-best-friend. Yami glows with pride for her Mexican and Indigenous ancestry, and although she stands out in Slayton, where most of the student body is white, she finds support from many kind and considerate classmates. Yami and Cesar, who both struggle with a sense of shame, deal with their feelings differently while also providing each other with love and support.

Yamilet is refreshing and genuine, starting off as someone who does not always stand up for herself and evolving into someone fiercely protective of her family, her friends, and herself. Working hard to make money in case she is kicked out of home when her truth is revealed, Yami doesn’t always pay attention to what’s happening with Cesar.

Soon she falls in with a good group of friends that includes Bo, a Chinese American girl who is kind, intelligent, confident, and out. Hoping to avoid a similar situation at Slayton, Yamilet pretends to be straight as she navigates the school. Cesar has a habit of getting into fights at school for reasons Yamilet can’t figure out, and Yamilet is struggling with a betrayal by ex-best friend Bianca, who revealed to others Yamilet is gay. Gr 8 Up–Yamilet Flores and her brother, Cesar, are set to start the school year at Slayton Catholic, both leaving behind unhappy pasts at Rover High.

The Lesbiana's Guide to Catholic School by Sonora Reyes