The Brightest Star
🏫👭💭🌈
by Meg Grehan
★★★
At a glance
Things I loved:
✍🏼 Author: Meg Grehan
📅 Release Date: 1st May 2025
📚 Book type: Verse novel, 184 pages
🌟 Reader level: Growing
⚠️ Content: 10+
❤️ Heartwarming friendship story
🌈 Celebrates LGBTQIA+ identities
✨ Beautiful message of belonging
📖 Accessible verse format
💭 Insight into different perspectives
💗 Encourages kindness and patience
Dive Deeper
My Thoughts...
I picked up The Brightest Star as another book shortlisted for the Verse Novel Awards, and lots of pupils in my class were drawn in by the lovely front cover! Even more were intrigued after reading the blurb, and I can definitely see why.
In this book, Stevie is about to start secondary school, and although she struggles with anxiety and maths lessons, she feels much more confident with her two best friends, Chloe and Andrew by her side. However, when Andrew suddenly becomes distant, Stevie begins to question their friendship. As they navigate the challenges of a new school, both Stevie and Andrew are given the space to explore who they really are and what it means to feel comfortable in their own skin.
I absolutely loved how this book explores identity, friendship and belonging in such a sweet and heartwarming way. It celebrates the LGBTQIA+ community while highlighting the importance of being patient, kind and true to yourself.
Another highlight is the verse format, with super-short chapters and a unique page layout that allows us to explore both Stevie and Andrew’s thoughts and feelings. It makes the story accessible and easy to follow, while giving readers a real insight into what both characters are experiencing.
🌟I would absolutely recommend this to lovers of real-life fiction and friendship stories, particularly children who are exploring their own identities or want to develop a better understanding of the people around them. It’s a lovely reminder that everyone deserves the time and space to work out who they are! 🌟
Blurb
Stevie is about to start secondary school. She often feels anxious, but feels much better having her two best friends, Chloe and Andrew, by her side. Their new school is filled with excitement, like the LGBTQIA+ club, but also challenges, such as math class. The biggest challenge of all though comes when Andrew suddenly becomes distant.
SAndrew isn't quite sure who he is yet. This didn't matter much before, especially when he was hanging out with Stevie and Chloe. Now it seems to matter very much indeed, but he doesn't know how to begin talking about it with his friends, who seem to be much clearer about who they are.
Should I read this book?
You should read this book if you...
🌈fancy a short read🌈
🌈love stories about identity and belonging🌈
🌈will be starting secondary school soon!🌈
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