Hey, guys! I am super excited to talk about Gaby Dunn and Allison Raskin’s debut novel, I Hate Everyone But You. This is a book that examines friendship, sexuality and mental illness. I really ended up enjoying it! I mostly read this via audiobook, which I highly recommend. This book is uniquely told through email and IM messages, which made the book pass by rather quickly. But let’s go ahead and jump right in!
Synopsis:
Dear Best Friend,
I can already tell that I will hate everyone but you.
Sincerely,
Ava Helmer
(that brunette who won’t leave you alone)
We’re still in the same room, you weirdo.
Stop crying.
G
So begins a series of texts and emails sent between two best friends, Ava and Gen, as they head off to their first semesters of college on opposite sides of the country. From first loves to weird roommates, heartbreak, self-discovery, coming out and mental health, the two of them document every wild and awkward moment to each other. But as each changes and grows into her new life, will their friendship be able to survive the distance?
My Thoughts:
This was a really good book; just seemed to drag in certain places, unfortunately. I loved the exploration of sexuality in this story and the trials and tribulations of the friendship between Ava and Gen. I feel like I need to warn you that there is some subtle and not so subtle homophobia and transphobia present in this book by certain characters (which isn’t immediately followed by a character, usually Gen, saying that shit isn’t okay).
This is a rare instance where I have actually included a book where one of the main characters was actually poly and monogamous. You don’t typically see that in fiction in general, so I loved seeing that kind of representation in the book! I also really identified with Gen and her exploration of her sexuality. Honestly, my sexuality is pretty fluid as well so I sometimes struggle with labeling myself, and I absolutely hate when other people label me.
I also really loved the representation of mental health in this book. It was never sugarcoated. This was the way I identified with Ava and her struggles with anxiety and depression. I have both struggled with and do struggle with anxiety and depression so I personally can speak to the accuracy of the representation. I just loved the realistic view of anxiety and depression coupled with the struggle of finding the right medication and also the positive outcome that therapy can provide. I just loved that entire storyline.
Overall, I did really enjoy this book, and I cannot wait to read the next one!
And there you have it! That was my review of I Hate Everyone But You by Gaby Dunn and Allison Raskin. What is your current favorite summer read? Comment down below! I would love to know. And that is going to be it for this review today. Thank you all so much for reading this, I hope you enjoyed it, and I will see you next time!
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