This Must Be the Place

Gr 10 Up–A heartwarming story of coming-of-age and coming out, and the joys and struggles that come with both. Louisa spent early childhood with her renowned family in a conservative southern town. She recently came out publicly, expecting to spend a year in college before returning. Her plan is thwarted when she has to return early for a ­family funeral. In the reading of the will, she is shocked to learn she has inherited a bar. Upon visiting the Frisky Cricket, she discovers the warm, vibrant, and queer heart of the town. Louisa is a likable and believable young adult, and her growth is satisfying to watch. Her first-person narration is endearing, snarky, and hilarious. She is kind but focused on herself and tends to see things in black and white. The events of the story make her realize how nuanced and complicated life is. Events unfold at the right pace for the protagonist and for ­readers. Louisa has a tender romance that follows an ­enemies-to-lovers path but doesn’t get bogged down in the trope. Much of the action takes place in the bar where Louisa mixes, serves, and enjoys drinks. There is also some flirting and swearing. All of this suits the story and the themes, which will appeal to older teens and new adults. Louisa and her family are white; there is a lot of diversity among the community and supporting characters.