Just Like Everyone Else

Aidan Taylor is a thirteen-year-old boy who is one of five children. He is questioning his sexuality although he is not acknowledging that to himself at the beginning of the novel. Aidan’s Mum then decides to become a surrogate for two gay men, Justin and Atif. How will Aidan and the rest of his family cope with this change? And what decision will Aidan make about his sexuality?

Talking about a surrogate journey in YA literature is rare and increasingly necessary. Hagger-Holt has undertaken meticulous research and deals with all the stages and emotions experienced by everyone, with great sensitivity. Interestingly, initially, Aidan is not in favour of his mother’s choice to be a surrogate. It is refreshing that a character was allowed to take this view and then change their mind.

Aidan finds relief in running and the details of competitive running will be of interest to many whether they are runners or not.

Hagger-Holt’s key achievement in this book is to begin to normalise non-standard families. This will be of huge importance to all young readers.