The Honeys - Ryan La Sala

Audiobook Winner

I have been listening to most of the books as audiobooks thorough Spotify, and this one was amazing. The only other audiobook that has been as good as this one has been Frank Herbert's Dune. As for the plot of the book, I loved this one. With it being labeled as "queer horror," I think that it helps define a niche subgenre of horror that has been emerging lately where the horror itself comes from the idea of being different and being ostracized for being different or the threat of conforming to societal norms. I think this is a perfect theme/idea for horror targeted at teens because all teenagers want to do is fit in a be cool. I also love the absurdity of this book. While I've head that others my find it annoying or confusing,  It makes it a very fun read to me. One of the only points of contention that I've seen online about this book (I know I shouldn't read online reviews of stuff, but I can't help myself) is the nature of the protagonist being genderfluid and how the author handled it. Which leads directly into why I think this book can relate to teens. 

Overall, I think that book can be enjoyed by anyone. But, having popular media that is successful and having proper representation of diverse characters is important for teens because they see themselves in these characters. I don't think the author had any intention of incorrectly representing a gender/sexuality, especially since what defines them can change, but I think it was impart to develop the character by having them be unsure of themselves. I mean, one of the main issues of the book is whether or not Mars should conform to those around them. That's kind of the whole point. I think it's important for students that are struggling with identity issues to see characters also struggling with it. It makes them feel more normal and helps them establish the idea that they too belong. This book was great, and it has stuck with me for months now. 


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