So, I missed writing a post for actual Asexual Awareness Week (which was October 21-27), so I’m just going to do a list now! Asexuality is the lack of, or low interest in, sexual attraction to other people, which can be often difficult to portray in young adult novels that often deal with teens and their growing feelings of sexuality. But, the inclusion of this population for those teens that might identify as asexual but have no positive portrayals in the media.
When asexuality is represented in the media, whether it’s movies, TV shows, or books, the individuals are most often presented as broken or as something that needs to be fixed. The following young adult books do their best to turn this idea on its head and present characters that anyone can relate to.
Tash Hearts Tolstoy by Kathryn Ormsbee
After getting a shout out from a famous blogger, Tash and her friends become internet famous for their YouTube series Unhappy Families, a modern adaptation of Anna Karenina. Her newfound fame leads to a flirty relationship with fellow YouTuber Thom Causer. When they get the chance to meet in person, Tash panics. How can she tell him that she’s a romantic asexual without scaring him away?
Before I Let Go by Marie Nijkamp
Growing up, Corey and Kyra were inseparable. When Corey moves away, Kyra waits patiently for her to come back. But Kyra dies before Corey can come back, leaving Corey to pick up the pieces. But there are secrets surrounding her friend’s death that the town is trying to keep secret. Now Corey must unravel them to figure out what exactly happened to her best friend.
How to Say Goodbye in Robot by Natalie Standiford
As the new kid in town, Beatrice is expecting to meet her new best friend on the first day of school. But instead, she gets seated next to Jonah, known by the rest of the students as Ghost Boy. He hasn’t made a new friend since third grade. The two form an unlikely friendship, something that verges on romance but doesn’t quite fit there.
Dare Mighty Things by Heather Kaczynski
Cassandra Gupta has been waiting her whole life for a chance to go to space. When the government announces a competition for people under twenty five to go to space, she jumps at the chance. But the true objective of the mission is being kept secret from them. Is Cassandra willing to risk everything to achieve her life long dream?
Beneath the Citadel by Destiny Soria
The city of Eldra is ruled by ancient prophecies, which eventually lead to rebellion and violence. Cassa is determined to fight against the high council who created all this death and violence. In order to rebel, they must uncover the final prophecy before it’s too late.