Hello, my lovelies! Today, I’m diving into Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda by Becky Albertalli—a book that came highly recommended and absolutely lived up to the hype. This modern, heartfelt take on a classic coming-out story is one I couldn’t put down, and I’m excited to share why it’s a must-have for your classroom library!
The Story of Simon and Blue
This contemporary YA novel follows Simon Spier, a high school junior who exchanges anonymous emails with a boy named BlueGreen (nicknamed Blue by Simon). The two bond over their shared experiences and growing feelings, but their connection is threatened when a classmate discovers Simon’s secret.
Simon is blackmailed into helping this classmate woo one of his female friends in exchange for keeping his sexuality—and his budding online relationship with Blue—private. As you can imagine, things don’t go smoothly.
The story takes readers through Simon’s journey of self-discovery, coming out to his family and friends, and grappling with being forcibly outed to his entire school. It also explores his growing confidence in embracing who he is, his hilarious and heartfelt interactions with friends and family, and, of course, the sweet romance as he discovers Blue’s true identity.
Why This Book Stands Out
What makes Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda truly special is its modern approach. The inclusion of platforms like Facebook and Tumblr, as well as its witty and relatable dialogue, makes the story feel incredibly relevant to today’s students. It’s refreshing to see a coming-out narrative that balances the struggles of acceptance with humor, warmth, and a focus on love and friendship.
Becky Albertalli’s writing captures the essence of adolescence beautifully, from Simon’s internal monologue to his awkward yet endearing attempts to navigate romance and identity. The mystery of Blue’s identity kept me guessing right up until the big reveal, making this a page-turner for both me and, I’m sure, the students who pick it up.
Sensitive Themes to Consider
While the book is a fantastic read, there are a few sensitive themes that educators should be aware of. When Simon is outed to the school, derogatory terms and bullying are used against him, which could be triggering for some students. Additionally, the book includes Simon’s exploration of his budding sexuality and a scene where he gets drunk at a gay bar.
These elements make the book a better fit for grades 8 and up or for mature grade 7 students with appropriate guidance. It’s an excellent choice for literature circles or a classroom read-aloud, where these themes can be discussed thoughtfully in a safe and supportive environment.
Final Thoughts
Overall, Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda is a solid 5/5 for me. It’s funny, heartfelt, and deeply relatable, making it a perfect addition to any classroom bookshelf. Whether used for independent reading, literature circles, or as a read-aloud, this book is a wonderful way to foster empathy, inclusivity, and understanding among students.