More Happy Than Not (2018) Parents Guide: Is the book OK for kids?

The book contains teenage romance and questioning, including kissing and discussions of attraction. While there is a subplot involving an unplanned pregnancy off-page, the sexual content is mostly romantic rather than graphic. Aaron experiences significant inner turmoil regarding his physical attraction to Thomas, which includes scenes of intense longing and close proximity. There are also brief mentions of past physical intimacy during flashbacks with Collin. These moments are focused on emotional connection and…

The narrative includes realistic and distressing violence, specifically a brutal physical assault and a hate crime involving homophobic slurs and physical battery. There are also vivid descriptions of a father's suicide in a bathtub and the protagonist's own previous self-harm, including the resulting scars on his wrist. Aaron is subjected to bullying and physical intimidation by former friends like Baby Freddy. The climax involves a traumatic head injury that has lasting neurological consequences for the…

Strong language is used throughout to reflect the urban setting and teenage characters, including frequent use of 'f*ck,' 'sh*t,' and casual insults. Homophobic slurs are used by antagonists during scenes of harassment, adding to the realistic but distressing atmosphere of the Bronx projects. The dialogue is peppered with slang and aggressive verbal sparring typical of the characters' social circles. Characters often swear when expressing frustration, anger, or excitement during their daily interactions. While…

There is casual mention of teenage recreational activities, but substance use is not a primary focus of the story compared to the emotional and medical themes. Characters may reference social smoking or the presence of alcohol at parties, but these are background elements rather than plot drivers. The Bronx setting includes mentions of the drug-related dangers of the projects, though the main characters are not shown engaging in heavy use. The primary 'substance' focus is medical, dealing with the drugs and…

Major themes include memory erasure, the ethics of suppressing pain, coping with LGBTQ+ identity in a hostile environment, and the aftermath of family suicide and depression. The narrative explores the devastating impact of grief on a family unit, specifically between Aaron, his mother, and his brother Eric. The moral dilemma of the Leteo procedure is debated, questioning whether it is better to live with painful truths or a happy lie. The book also touches on social inequality and the limited options available to…