In Case You Read This: A Tender Exploration of Love and Identity
I must admit, when I picked up In Case You Read This by Edward Underhill, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect. Having enjoyed his previous novels Always the Almost and This Day Changes Everything, I was curious to see how he would navigate the intersecting journeys of two transgender teens in this latest young adult romance. Yet, what I found was so much more than a meet-cute; it was a profound exploration of connection, identity, and the challenges of growing up.
At the heart of the story are Arden and Gabe, two beautifully crafted characters whose paths cross unexpectedly in a Nebraska motel lobby. Arden’s reluctant departure from the supportive atmosphere of Los Angeles to the uncertain terrain of Winifred, Michigan, contrasts perfectly with Gabe’s eager anticipation of the opportunities awaiting him in Pasadena. Their initial conversation, sparked by a shared love for the fictional band Damaged Pixie Dream Boi, feels serendipitous and deep, setting the groundwork for a narrative that strikes a perfect balance between hope and the bittersweet reality of teenage life.
Underhill’s capacity to create authentic voices for his characters is one of the book’s standout features. Arden, with his dry humor and sardonic exterior, is all at once relatable and complex. His artistic inclinations shine through his sketches and vivid observations, making him feel vividly real to any reader who has ever grappled with self-doubt. Meanwhile, Gabe embodies a different facet of the trans experience—his hopeful aspirations intertwine seamlessly with his struggles, particularly with voice dysphoria. Each character’s arc feels carefully woven into a rich tapestry of both internal and external conflict.
The dynamics of family play a profound role in the narrative, especially through Arden’s interactions with his mother and grandmother. Underhill tackles the complexities of generational trauma with maturity, showcasing how dreams and expectations can create rifts in familial relationships. The emotional weight of these interactions resonates throughout the story and adds significant depth, making the journey feel relatable to all readers, regardless of their background.
I particularly loved Underhill’s dual-perspective narrative. The alternating chapters provided a fresh rhythm, offering insights into both Arden’s and Gabe’s thoughts and emotions. I enjoyed the text message interludes that captured the authenticity of modern teenage communication—no forced slang here, just real conversations that felt true to life.
One of the most striking elements is Gabe’s songwriting. His creative journey of writing “Nebraska Dimension” became not just a way to express his feelings about his connection with Arden, but also a compelling motif that mirrored his emotional growth in a beautifully nuanced way. As a music lover myself, I found these moments particularly endearing and reflective of the power of art in our lives.
While the book does have its minor pacing issues and a few plot points that veered into coincidence territory, these elements hardly overshadow the emotional core of the story. Rather, they serve to enhance the adventure of Arden and Gabe’s journey toward self-acceptance and love.
In closing, In Case You Read This is a remarkable addition to LGBTQ+ young adult literature, perfect for readers who appreciate authentic relationships and heartfelt narratives. It captures the authentic complexities of teenage life and love while reminding us of the importance of acceptance—both from others and ourselves. Whether you’re someone who has navigated the tumultuous waters of identity or simply enjoy a well-told story, there’s a little something for everyone in Underhill’s latest work. This book left me feeling both uplifted and introspective, a testament to the tender unraveling of human connection that we all seek.