An important this book for the world right now. Heartfelt, honest, and an example of why novels are essential to developing empathy. The author writes out of direct experience with serious mental illness and captures its contradictions, fears, ecstasies, and more. The same holds true for their queer characters. Reyes doen’st write one-dimensional characters - they know we are all full of contradictions, that someone deported can be both a victim and a jerk to their kid. Exactly the kind of book that maga is banning and exactly the kind of book that needs to be read widely. I am not the target audience as an older straight cis woman, and I'm not usually interested in coming-of-age books, but this one might save lives and deserves to be widely read. Thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins for the e-ARC.

A bisexual teen has to navigate life, love, mental health and religion while making and dealing with the mistakes that come with adolescence and growing pains.

Book Stats:
📖: 385 pages
Genre: YA Fiction
Publisher: Harper Collins
Format: eARC via NetGalley
Series: Standalone

Themes:
💫: Loving yourself
💫: Allowing yourself to be loved

Representation:
🪽: Bipolar main character
🪽: Queer characters
🪽: Honest talks about meds

Tropes:
💗:

🥵: Spice: light
Potential Triggers: **check authors page/socials for full list.

Short Synopsis:
Cesar is trying his best. Trying to figure out his sexuality, family struggles and dealing with a new bipolar diagnosis. While he makes many mistakes along the way.

General Thoughts:
This novel is extremely emotional and left me feeling a whole range of things for the main character. I felt so much pain and sadness for Cesar as he tried to navigate some difficult circumstances. But there was the underlying thread of hope that was his friends and family to keep his feet on the ground. And while I don't feel like his Family handled everything perfectly, I do feel like they were doing their best just like Cesar was.

I personally have no experience with bipolar disorder, so I cannot speak on whether or not the representation was done well. But it felt realistic and relatable to me regardless due to my own mental health issues. I could relate to being young and confused and scared. While I do have an ADHD diagnosis as well as other disability diagnosis, all of those experiences do share a common theme of having a learning curve. And I felt very endeared and close to Cesar. His character was easy to love and easy to root for.

The side characters were really well done and so important to the reading experience. They were diverse, nuanced and relatable. There wasn't a bad one in the bunch. Well, except Nick. 😒 If you know, you know.

I feel like this book was written with the utmost care and consideration. The author did an amazing job of having a honest and realistic experience with the characters while making it digestible for a younger audience. I think this book will save lives to be completely honest.

I hope this author writes more books for me to read!! It was excellent.

Disclaimer: I read this book as a ebook I purchased myself. All opinions are my own. This is my honest and voluntary review.

A really interesting and well developed book that did an excellent job of portraying a complex character. I did find the pacing to be off and it lost my attention occasionally, but overall was a really good read.

The Golden Boy’s Guide to Bipolar is a compassionate, thorough exploration of severe mental illness at a crossroads of being a queer, young adult. The characters are layered, distinguished, and easy to love. You truly feel like a member of the family, riding the highs and lows with Cesar. You can feel how intentional the author’s choices were and how much care went into writing this beautiful story. It was absolutely breathtaking.

This was a heavy read but it was supposed to be. Reyes gathered so much emotions into the main protagonist for a reason. I admit I put down the book a couple of times with second hand embarrassment but also the reassurance that someone feels the things I do as a queer trans latine person. Without much more to say about this book, because I’ll probably dump a lot of emotions, I want to say this book definitely deserves a read

Sonora Reyes has done it again. This highly anticipated sequel to THE LESBIANA’S GUIDE TO CATHOLIC SCHOOL did not disappoint!

Cesar’s story and journey to his diagnosis with bipolar disorder was so raw and emotional. We still get the Cesar we loved in the first book but seeing his life up close from his point of view is priceless. We learn there is so much more to the “golden child” who get good grades and seems to be breezing through school with no issues and is so charming adults think there is nothing to worry about. There are so many stigmatized topics that Reyes addresses head on such as dealing with a new diagnosis, the role of medication when dealing with mental illnesses, how to maintain relationships while battling internal issues, and what suicidal ideations can be like in a young person. The subject matter in this book is not to be taken lightly and I am so glad this book exists.

This was a deeply emotional journey that gives readers a raw and honest glimpse into living with bipolar. I think it did an excellent job of portraying an often misunderstood diagnosis, while also providing hope. Sonora Reyes is an incredible writer and makes you feel like you know these characters intimately. Can't wait to read more of hers!

4 stars, maybe 4.24/4.5. My second book by the brilliant Sonora Reyes. SOOO much heart, so much heartbreak, so much moving forward. Awesome cast of characters, especially our MC, who was believable, flawed, struggling, often stupid in his choices, but always someone I was rooting for, along with his family and friends. Highly recommend.

Many thanks to NetGalley, the author, and the publishers for a digital ARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinions.

How many times did this book make me tear up? I lost count, but at least half a dozen? Cesar's story, just as Yamilet's was in the previous book, is by turns heartfelt, heart-wrenching, and heartwarming. In addition to the typical struggles of any teenage at the end of their time in high school, Cesar much wrestle with coming out as bi, dealing with mental health issues, feeling the pressure of the being the gifted and golden child, being shunned by his father, and fearing for his immortal soul. This book is not one to be read lightly, because it does deal with such heavy, yet important, topics.

With respect to Cesar's mental health, I appreciate that Reyes makes it clear in the author's note that Cesar is an unreliable narrator in this book, not by any true fault of his, but due to him being bipolar. While I think many readers would be able to figure this out, I think it is worth stating from the beginning because Cesar internal dialogue is very persuasive, which is where his troubles ultimately stem from. I also appreciate that Reyes shows over and over again that there is no shame in dealing with mental illness, case in point with the line, "Some people's brains make mental stability for free, and I just so happen to have to get mine at the pharmacy {...}".

When the rest of the world isn't in the way of it, I love Cesar and Jamal's romance. Jamal is the cutest of cute as a boyfriend, and I love how caring and considerate he is. Things are far from easy for love, but I love how they make their way back to each other. In regards to the romance, I also appreciate the quote, "'Working toward self-love is a great goal, but I don't think it's fair to say that those who aren't there yet don't deserve love in their lives.'" I think all too often the idea of "no one can love you until you love yourself" is harmful to those who struggle with self-image and mental health, and so think that this book shows you can work on your own personal journey of self-acceptance at the same time you work on a romantic relationship.

Finally, this book shows just how ugly this world can be towards people in the LGBTQ+ community and just how damaging that can be. Cesar's father's dismissal upon learning that his son is bi is horrible to consider, but unfortunately the reality for many young members of the community. On top of these feelings of parental abandonment, Cesar also has to contend with the religious trauma inflicted by his priest telling him that he is committing a sin by loving someone. Mix all of this in with Cesar's brain literally telling him that he's worthless and he would be better off if he pushed all his loved ones away so that they wouldn't care if he died, and you get a scarily dangerous combination. Cesar is just lucky that he has an incredibly dedicated and full support system to help pull him through, from his family, to his friends, to his therapist, to his therapy group. Without them, there is no doubt that Cesar would have followed through with his plans to end his life, which, again, is the unfortunate reality for many queer youth. In response to all the negative voices that Cesar hears, I appreciate the words we get from Jamal: "'Maybe God exists, and maybe he doesn't, and no one will ever know with absolute certainty. But What I do know is that you exist, Cesar. I thought we were going to lose you, but you're still here. And I need you to know that your life is just as holy and precious as any god.'" Because of what Jamal says, Cesar is able to give a little in his own considerations as he thinks to himself, "Maybe there is something holy about being completely intertwined with everything and everyone surrounding you. Maybe there is something holy about loving every part of someone else, even, and especially, the parts made just like you."

I'll leave off with one of the more poignant exchanges towards the end of the book in which Cesar tells Jamal, "'I would die for you,'" to which Jamal responds, "'I'd rather you live for me.'" And while this alone is great, there a little extra added bit a little further on that makes it even better, which you'll just have to read for yourself to find out.

Many thanks to NetGalley for the advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.

Thanks HarperCollins and Netgalley for this eARC, these opinions are my own. Simply fantastic! Months ago Cesar Flores broke up with his boyfriend Jamal as a way to repent for the sin of being queer, bisexual to be exact. Now it’s New Year’s Eve, the two have stayed friends, and really Cesar still loves him. What starts as a midnight kiss leads to discussions of getting back together. But is Cesar ready for that? Especially when he doesn’t love himself. Don’t they always say that in order to love someone else you must first love yourself? But Cesar still struggles with being Bipolar and the fact that he was in inpatient treatment. He still feels guilty for that and the fact that his mami and sister worry about him. Plus there’s the crushing weight of sin. All of these make up The Thoughts and the louder they are the more he thinks he doesn’t deserve to love anyone. Can he work on himself long enough to win Jamal back? Or will the weight of The Thoughts come crushing in on him? A beautiful depiction of identity and mental health! I enjoyed Cesar’s ups and downs so much, while he makes a lot of mistakes, as a reader I really understood where he was coming from and how difficult it can be! Sonora Reyes tells as heartbreaking and heartwarming story about finding yourself and loving yourself! Relatable, deep, and will have you in all the feels!

As some one who also struggles with a mental health disorder it was refreshing to see a males prospective especially since they aren’t acknowledged as much in mainstream society.

DNF @66%

This got too much for me at some points. I understand that this is accurate representation of how some people with bipolar disorder act, but the way that he was sometimes acting and thinking with the girl that outed his sister was ridiculous to me. If you want good representation for bipolar disorder, then I'd recommend this.

4.75 stars

Thank you to HarperCollins and NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Absolutely loved this one. Sonora Reyes does it again!

After reading The Lesbiana’s Guide to Catholic School 2 years ago (excellent, 5 stars, no notes), I was elated that Cesar would get his story next! I loved the sibling relationship between Yami and Cesar, and I loved continuing to know more about them + get to see Yami and Bo be together more.

The author’s note at the very beginning tugged on my heart strings immensely. As someone who has suffered from major depressive disorder my entire life, I love books where characters are trying to figure out and come to terms with their mental health and diagnoses. It feels so relatable and real, and I believe Reyes wrote this book in a very authentic and sensitive way to display Cesar and his bipolar diagnosis.

Cesar is also struggling with his sexuality against his religious beliefs. He has already come out to those closest to him, but he cannot fathom going to hell for loving his friend Jamal. His father and priest tell him that he needs to resist temptation so he won’t go to hell, and this does not help when Cesar begins to rapid cycle between mania and depressive episodes.

Cesar makes a lot of mistakes throughout the book. It’s messy and complicated and self-destructive, but those who love him stick by him to the very end. I love this representation—not only is his family there for him, but his old and new friends continue to show up for him. Sometimes external factors are needed to literally get to through the next day, especially when we are in crisis.

I love his new friends he makes in group therapy. It can make all of the difference to hear what other people are going through and what is helping them with their symptoms, such as medications, therapy, and coping skills. I love how supportive they are to each other.

Jamal and Cesar, I love that while Cesar is going through so much that Jamal stays this consistent person in his life. Mental illness can make you feel unlovable or worthless, and it truly creates a reminder that there are people in the universe who will love you and show up for you even in your darkest moments.

Cannot wait for everyone to read this. It publishes September 16th! Put it on your TBR asap.

CW: mental illness, homophobia, biphobia, suicidal thoughts, injury/injury details, violence, alcohol, religious bigotry, discussions of conversion therapy, cursing, grief, vomit

In full transparency, when I first started “The Golden Boy’s Guide to Bipolar” I didn’t expect it to be 100% as good as its predecessor. I LOVED “The Lesbiana’s Guide to Catholic School.” How could you possibly top one of my favorite books, and one of my favorite protagonists in Yamo (the lesbiana herself)?

Well…Sonora Reyes did just that! This book was such a beautiful and heartbreaking depiction of identity and mental illness that I found myself tearing up at multiple points. I was reading out paragraphs to my girlfriend. I will be thinking about this book for SO long.

I loved Cesar’s story, even in the parts that were a bit more upsetting and difficult to read. We see him grapple with his sexuality and how it is impacted by his religious views, particularly when he starts to go off of his medication and experiences both manic and depressive symptoms. There are a few trigger warnings I would highlight for potential readers (especially for mental health and illness) though I never felt overwhelmed myself while reading. Overall, a without-a-doubt 5 star book for me!

Huge thanks to the publishers for an ARC of one of my most anticipated reads of the year (in exchange for my honest and unfiltered review). “The Golden Boy’s Guide to Bipolar” releases on September 16, and I will absolutely be buying a physical copy for my bookshelves!

as a *big* fan of the lesbiana's guide to catholic school, i was super excited for this companion novel, following cesar after the events of that book as he struggles with his mental health, catholic guilt, his sexuality & being out, family relationships, school, therapy, meds, and a bipolar diagnosis. so, a LOT, really.

this one is quite a hard read, so be sure to check the trigger & content warnings and take care. i found myself tearing up at times, and i also have to admit that it was a bit triggering for me and made me feel very existential for a few days.

i can't speak on the bipolar representation, but in my opinion, issues with mental health in general were represented SO well. it was like cesar was in my brain, because most of the thoughts™️ are so very familiar and things i think about often. even so, you as the reader can't help but get mad at cesar for all the self-sabotage and not-so-great decisions he makes, but you also completely understand where he's coming from and why he's doing all of that, and your heart is also breaking in the meantime but also you know that you would do (or maybe have done) similar things so you can't really judge him... the ending gave me so much hope. (also can we get a jamal book too please)

in short; sonora reyes has written yet another masterpiece and we love them for that. although i think i'll always prefer the lesbiana's guide to catholic school over this one, both will continue to hold a special place in my heart for a long time, i imagine. also obviously loved the little glimpses of yami and bo that we got to see :)

thank you to the author & publisher for a free e-arc in exchange for an honest review.

This book is a difficult read. It’s important and I’m thankful for the courage it took to write it. It will absolutely save lives. But it is not at all the emotional but slightly light hearted read the first book was.

Cesar’s pain and devolving are very real, and I’d caution anyone with a history of severe mental illness to be in a good headspace before reading.

That being said, it’s an absolute masterpiece of the isolation and self destruction that can follow a difficult diagnosis, and the power of family and community to help pick you back up the next time you stumble.

It doesn’t end in a ‘fix’, there is nothing to be fixed. It ends in a new normal that still struggles, but with the support to cope, and that’s the real hope.

Set after The Lesbiana's Guide to Catholic School, this story follows Ceaser as he navigates being the "perfect" kid.
Straight A's, full ride to a private school, the societal pressures to push down his own desires... The usual for a high school student.
This book is so raw and relatable and really showcases Reyes' writing abilities once again. As someone who was not expecting to live to 21, this book hit a little close to home in the best way.
Please check your trigger warnings, but such an amazing story.

I loved The Lesbiana’s Guide to Catholic School, so I was thrilled to get the next book in the duo, The Golden Boy’s Guide to Bipolar. It did not disappoint. I felt all the emotions - all the ups and downs and everything in between. If you’re anything like me, you’ll fall in love with Cesar’s story and won’t want to put it down.

Sonora Reyes writes thoughtful characters with genuine care and love. I love how Cesar came to life on the page - he was a complex protagonist that is struggling with mental illness, religion, sexuality, and family. As I read, I found myself both frustrated by and rooting for Cesar throughout, which resonates for anyone who is or has a friend or loved one who struggles with mental illness. I definitely felt all the emotions throughout the entire book. Also, absolutely adored Jamal - how could you not after this book?! Finally, loved Abuela’s story arc so much - rooting for another book that shows her story more, because I was dying to learn more by the end. Really enjoyed this one and cannot wait to read everything Sonora Reyes writes ever!

Thanks NetGalley and HarperCollins for the ARC!

e-arc provided by Netgalley

This book is difficult to rate - a lot of this was tough to read in that its hard to see a character going though these tough situations and self sabotage, it was also tough since the main charter kept pissing me off but I know that was kind of the point. Overall I liked The Lesbiana's Guide to Catholic School better but this was a good companion novel.

5 stars

Few things could've made me happier than the opportunity to return to these characters. I've taught _The Lesbiana's Guide to Catholic School_ for a couple of years, and it is always a hit. It's also one of those books that makes me feel lucky to teach. I get to enjoy myself AND bring a bunch of important issues and identities to my students' attention. As we all know, that is more important than ever these days.

Speaking of representation, Reyes always delivers on this front, and this book is no exception. For those who are familiar with the aforementioned novel, this time, we get to focus on Yami's little brother, Cesar, and as we all learned during the last round (this title will clue you in if you're trying to one-off this, which is doable but an incredible disservice to you!), Cesar comes with some troubles.

One of many things I appreciate about Reyes is how mindful they are with content warnings. This book begins with one that highlights not only the material but also reinforces that Cesar's responses are not indicative of healthy or recommended behavior. In fact, since his struggles are designed to be realistic, he pretty much exclusively makes choices that are harmful to himself and to others. The reality is that this book is not easy to read because it is so well written and articulated. That noted, it's IMPORTANT, and despite the challenging material, it is a joy to read in another way: a hopeful entry point into resilience and a return to characters we all know and love.

Sonora Reyes is creating some of the best YA content right now, and they are in extremely good company. We are lucky to be reading at a time when these authors are doing the challenging work and allowing those of us in the classroom do the same. It is my greatest hope that we get to return to these characters again. I love them and feel so attached to them, and I want to keep watching them grow.

I will *obviously* be recommending this to my students with wild enthusiasm and careful warnings about the content. Please go enjoy this gift from Reyes to readers. It'll go straight to your heart.