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336
Novel • Fiction
Campbell, Indiana • 2010s
2020
YA
12-18 years
880L
In You Should See Me in a Crown by Leah Johnson, Liz Lighty, one of the only Black students in her predominantly white high school, fails to get a music scholarship to her dream college and decides to run for prom queen to win the accompanying cash award. With the help of her friends, Liz navigates challenges, mends and breaks friendships, and finds romance while facing down prejudice to achieve her goals.
Heartwarming
Inspirational
Romantic
Humorous
Hopeful
43,689 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
You Should See Me in a Crown by Leah Johnson has been widely praised for its heartwarming, authentic representation of Black LGBTQ+ youth. Critics commend its engaging and relatable protagonist, Liz, and the charming, inclusive story. Some felt the plot was somewhat predictable, but overall, it's seen as an empowering, refreshing read that celebrates diversity and resilience.
Readers who enjoy YA novels with themes of identity, belonging, and romance will appreciate Leah Johnson's You Should See Me in a Crown. Fans of Becky Albertalli's Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda and Jenny Han's To All the Boys I've Loved Before will find this heartwarming and empowering story especially delightful.
43,689 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Gabi Marino
Liz's fashion-savvy best friend who is attending the Fashion Institute of Technology and is deeply involved in designing outfits for Liz’s prom queen campaign.
Rachel Collins
The primary antagonist who competes with Liz academically and socially while frequently making disparaging remarks about her.
Jordan Jennings
Liz's former best friend and one of the few Black students in their school, who eventually rekindles his friendship with Liz during the prom events.
Brittany “Britt” Luca
A friend from Liz's circle, known for her tough demeanor and full of piercings, who supports Liz and voices concerns about systemic bias.
Stone
A spiritual friend interested in astrology and healing, who helps Liz by crafting an algorithm for the prom queen competition.
Mr. K
The supportive young band teacher who encourages Liz's musical pursuits and provides emotional support.
Emme Chandler
Jordan’s girlfriend and a kind figure in Liz's life who was once the favorite to win prom queen before stepping aside.
Granny
Liz's caring grandmother who becomes her guardian after her mother's passing and stays invested in their family’s well-being.
Grandad
Liz's humorous and accepting grandfather who provides a stable, loving environment for her and her brother.
Robbie
Liz's younger brother who motivates her to enter the prom competition and faces health challenges due to sickle cell disease.
Amanda “Mack” McCarthy
A unique and confident new friend and potential love interest for Liz, known for her distinctive style and bold personality.
Dr. Lamont
A former hematologist running a community center in Indianapolis, encouraging Liz in her goal to become a doctor.
Quinn Bukowski
A popular friend of Rachel's who evolves from silent complicity to actively defending Liz against bullying.
Madame Simoné
The French teacher and prom coordinator who initially seems to uphold the status quo but later stands up for fairness in the prom proceedings.
Dr. Fredrickson
Robbie's current hematologist, known for being one of the few Black female hematologists in the state, admired by Liz.
Principal Wilson
The school principal who generally upholds the conservative norms of the school unless persuaded by other faculty members.
336
Novel • Fiction
Campbell, Indiana • 2010s
2020
YA
12-18 years
880L
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