Most Valuable Player

Gr 10 Up–Cam Morelli, star quarterback, is cocky, obnoxious, and unflappable–or at least, that’s what he wants everyone to think. But after Cam is romantically rejected by Mason Gray, the football team’s handsome water boy, he begins to question if his shallow facade is serving him, especially after Mason–who has secrets of his own–becomes his tutor. As Mason and Cam’s relationship deepens, they both reckon with past experiences that make it difficult to connect with other people, including Mason’s abusive ex-boyfriend who is still trying to get back into his life. Mason and Cam are vivid and distinct characters with thoughtfully-rendered traumatic histories that impact their growing relationship in realistic ways. However, the school-and-sports plot is underdeveloped, as are the secondary characters, and the tonal shift between lighthearted banter and more serious plotlines involves some jarring transitions. Mason and Cam are both cued white. This book deals deeply with the long-term effects of bullying, intimate partner violence, and parental abuse, as well as the restorative power of affirming love from a partner. While not a light and fluffy romance, Cam and Mason’s story is often sweet and satisfying despite some unevenness.