And Other Mistakes

A queer Black girl has something to prove—not to others, but to herself—in this “standout novel” (Publishers Weekly, starred review) about navigating messy friendships and even messier family life, perfect for getting ready for back-to-school.

Aaliyah’s home life has never been great, but she thought she’d survive her last years of high school with at least her friendships and cross-country stardom intact. That is, until junior year struck: she was outed by a church elder and everything came undone—including Aaliyah.

Now senior year is here, and she’s determined to come back faster and wiser. No more letting other people define her. No more losing herself to their expectations. Except with new friends, old flames, and teammates who don’t trust her yet, the route already feels rough. And there’s the new girl, Tessa, who gives Aaliyah butterflies every time she looks at her.

It won’t be easy, but Aaliyah is more than her mistakes. She just has to prove it to herself.

This is a work of fiction and includes themes such as depression, homophobia, self-harm, alcoholism, parental abuse, suicidal ideation, and non-consensual outing.