Jude Saves the World

Jude Winters, a white 12-year-old who’s nonbinary and bisexual, feels completely safe only with best friend Dallas Knight, who is gay and Black. Even so, when white-cued schoolmate Stevie Morgan, a former soccer star, is ousted from a popular clique, and rumors swirl that she’s queer, Jude and Dallas offer their friendship. Having a second pal, especially one as fun as Stevie, changes Jude’s life for the better and inspires Jude to create a safe space for marginalized people in their hometown. At the same time, Jude’s ADHD makes it difficult to concentrate in the classroom, and they’re frustrated with their worried mom’s request that they not come out to her parents, leading to misgendering and deadnaming by their grandparents. How can Jude make a difference when so many things are out of their control? Jude is an endearingly earnest narrator, and their supportive bond with Dallas—which debut author Riley contrasts against a toxic former friendship of Stevie’s—models healthy, consensual, enthusiastic camaraderie. Though the novel’s many elements never completely coalesce, the kids eventually find a broader LGBTQ support network, learning more about queer history and identities along the way. It’s a gently inclusive, relationally positive read that touches on symbiotic associations. An author’s note and queer glossary conclude. Ages 8–12. Agent: Andrea Walker and Jennifer Azantian, Azantian Literary Agency. (Apr.)