Every Star That Falls by Michael Thomas Ford

Every Star That Falls by Michael Thomas Ford. Harper, 2023. 9780063256354
Rating: 1-5 (5 is an excellent or a Starred review) 4
Format: Hardcover
Genre: Realistic fiction
What did you like about the book? Fifteen-year-old Jeff spent 45 days in a psychiatric hospital after having attempted suicide.  Jeff had left his sexuality in the closet until that time but he has come out of the hospital strengthened and so much more aware of who he is.  He finds he still has his best friend, Allie, as his friend and, though his mother wants him to attend a different school where no one knows his history, Jeff does not wish to.  He finds that returning to school is actually quite okay, that most kids have no idea as to why he was missing. He joins a support group made up of a variety of kids who are similar to himself. He also joins the drama group putting on Grease, discovering his talent for acting and singing.  His life has become very full.  The story is filled with interesting characters and realistic situations.
Anything you did not like about the book?  No, but one needs to be aware, I think, of somewhat graphic sex.
To whom would you recommend this book? Those who read its predecessor, Suicide Notes , will welcome this continuation even with fifteen years in-between which the author explains why the absence in his afterword.  This book stands on its own without having read the previous but some might wish to go back and read Suicide Notes after reading this one.
Who should buy this book? Public and high school libraries
Where would you shelve it? YA fiction
Should we (librarians) put this on the top of our “to read” piles? Near.
Reviewer’s Name, Library (or school), City: Katrina Yurenka, Retired Librarian, Contributor, Youth Services Book Review
Date of Review: November 7, 2023