Book Information

Series: Lorimer Real Love
Imprint: James Lorimer & Company Ltd., Publishers
Publication Date: 1 August 2018
Copyright Year: 2018
ISBN: 9781459412941
Page Count: 168
Dimensions: 5.3" x 7.5"
Interest ages: 13-18
Reading level: Grade 4

Purchasing Information

Paperback

9781459412927

$8.99 USD

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Hardcover

9781459412941

$27.99 USD

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Just Julian

Name: Just Julian
SKU: 2202
Availability: InStock

by Markus Harwood-Jones

A young gay man finds the courage to stand up for himself in an LGBTQ twist on Romeo and Juliet. Romeo gives Julian the strength to face his depression and take a stand against homophobia.

After years of bullying at school, 19-year-old Julian is depressed. He sees a glimmer of hope after meeting the similarly out-of-place Romeo at a party and sharing a kiss with him. The only problem: Romeo has always identified as straight and he hangs out with a group of intolerant guys. But as the two begin to fall in love, Julian finds strength he never knew he had. When Romeo's old friends come after the couple, a vicious fight puts both Julian and Romeo in the hospital. The two boys decide to take a stand for their right for respect.

Just Julian provides insight into the struggle against homophobia, reminding LGBTQ readers that they are not alone.

About the Author

MARKUS HARWOOD-JONES is a writer, visual artist and documentary filmmaker. He is the author of the short story collections Confessions of a Teenage Transsexual Whore and Everything & All at Once. His feature film, Mosaic, tells the story of his journey across Canada and the United States to learn more about the trans community. He lives in Toronto.

Reviews

"Overall, an easy, quick read. I think it would work for upper middle (8th) grade students as well as high school readers. The content is approachable, and dramatic enough to keep their interest."

Michelle Motyczka, NetGalley

"This modern retelling of Romeo and Juliet is just as heart-wrenching as the original — but with a happy ending."

Sarah Atkinson, Resource Links

"The novel boasts empathetic characters and enough dramatic action to hold readers' attention to its happy ending."

Michael Cart, Booklist

"A unique way of telling a story in a new way to make it relatable to younger audiences. Would definitely be a good compare and contrast in a classroom and just a fun read."

Nicole Kriener, Librarian, NetGalley

"...these novels [Just Julian and Romeo for Real] provide much-needed representation for those whom society marginalizes."

Kirkus Reviews

"The romance stories in Lorimer's Real Love series reflect the diverse world that teens live in — at a reading level for emerging readers."

VOYA