Book Review: I Wish You All the Best

Author: Mason Deaver 

Published: 14 May 2019

Genres: Young Adult Fiction

It’s just three word: I am non-binary. But that’s all it takes to change everything. 

When Ben De Backer comes to their parents as non-binary, they’re thrown out their house and forced to move in with their estranged older sister, Hannah, and her husband, Thomas, who mxm Ben has never even met. Struggling with an anxiety disorder compounded by their parents’ rejection, they come out only to Hannah, Thomas, and their therapist and try to keep a low profile in a new school. 

But Ben’s attempts to survive the last half of senior year unnoticed are thwarted when Nathan Allan, a funny and charismatic student, decides to take Ben under his wing. 

As Ben and Nathan’s friendship grows, their feelings for each other begin to change, and what started as a disastrous turn of events looks like it make just be a chance to start a happier new life. 

“True to it’s optimist title, Mason Deaver’s first novel is deeply heartfelt tribute to the growing pains of first love and self-acceptance that people of all genders can find hope in. I Wish You All the Best offers a refreshing, nuanced coming-out narrative that celebrates the small victories in what is often a scary, stressful and traumatic experience for young LGBTQ people. Deaver, who also identifies as non-binary, breaks the convention of tragic outcomes for queer youth by filling the story with meaningful and positive moments that show the importance of authenticity and perseverance in the face of life’s most daunting obstacles. At times, however, the story suffers from inconsistent narration and lack of direction that can make lessons feel out of place. And while it’s uplifting to watch Ben open up to the possibility of romance, it distracts from the more compelling storyline that follows Ben and Hannah as they try to rebuild their sibling relationship and heal from the harm caused by their parents. That said, I Wish You All the Best is a charming and admirable exploration of gender and sexuality in the familiar setup of a sweet coming-of-age romance, and will surely appeal to teens looking for more genuine, diverse love stories.” - Samara Meyer. Common Sense Media.