So Hard To Say

So Hard To Say by Alex Sanchez is wonderful. It follows best friends Xio and Frederick and is written in a unique way. First the readers hears from Xio's point of view, then the next chapter is from Frederick's point of view and so on. Therefore, for many major parts of the story the reader can hear how Xio saw the event take place and how Frederick saw the event take place. This is pivotal seeing as Xio has developed a very big crush on Frederick and Frederick does not like her that way, in fact, he is wondering if he is gay. But, as most teen boys who are gay feel, he is afraid to admit it and is not sure why he feels different around his friend Victor. The story follows Xio and Frederick as their actions confuse themselves and each other. It put a smile on my face as everyone can remember instances from their adolescence when they are trying to find themselves and end up in awkward situations.

The novel also addresses how being called 'gay' is an insult. There is a point during lunch when one of the girls asks Frederick if he is gay, Frederick immiediately goes on the defensive and Xio stands up for him getting very angry with the girl who asked.

"I'd never really seen him mad before, but I couldn't blame him. Everyone knows calling somebody gay is just about the worst thing you can say to them. And asking someone if they're gay is like telling them you think they are gay" (Sanchez 84).

You will have to pick up So Hard To Say and read it yourself to hear what Frederick thought about the situation!