This is How it Always Is - Opinion and Review

I can't even begin to put into words how special I found this book to be. So bear with me as I struggle through my thoughts. This is How it Always Is by Laurie Frankel has been on my TBR for a while now. I've been intrigued by the storyline, but didn't want to be disappointed in how it was told. The fact that I was scared that could happen is laughable now, having finally devoured this fantastic book.

The way Laurie Frankel dives into the world of a young child who was struggling with their gender identity was beautiful. Claude was born a boy, the youngest brother of 5, but learned at a very young age that being a boy wasn't quite right. Claude loved wearing dresses and wanted nothing more than to be a princess. With the love and support of his family, he was embraced as Poppy. Others didn't take so kindly to this though, and the family moved across country to start fresh when Poppy was still in grade school. Becoming fast friends with a girl next door, Poppy finally felt like she could be who she wanted to be.

All this changed one day, causing Poppy to no longer want to be herself anymore, and Claude was back. But Claude was not a happy kid, and had so much trouble finding their true voice. After a trip to Thailand with their mother, Claude was able to finally embrace Poppy and all she could be.

I do not want to give any more information, as this is a book that should be added to your MUST READ pile immediately. It's incredibly important in today's culture for sure. I gave this book a VERY WELL DESERVED 5 out of 5 stars!

Dates read: March 8, 2021 - March 14, 2021