More recognition for Stars in Their Eyes in the USA

The American Library Association’s Rainbow Round Table and Young Adult Library Services Associations have announced more love for the US edition of Stars in Their Eyes by Jessica Walton and Aśka.

The book has been listed by YALSA on the Great Graphic Novels for Teens list of recommended graphic novels and illustrated novels for ages 12 to 18. The list represents books that have proven or potential appeal to the personal reading tastes of teens, and each is highlighted on the Association’s Teen Book Finder App.

The book has also been chosen to feature on the 2024 Rainbow Book List – a 100-strong selection of books for LGBTQIA+ youth. In their announcement, the American Library Association said it was critical that the Rainbow Book List, and other book lists like it, were made available to librarians, educators, caregivers, community members and allies. The statement said, ‘Our youth deserve to see themselves reflected in literature. Unfortunately, this list will undoubtedly be used by some to target, censor and ban LGBTQIA+ stories. It is therefore up to all of us to rally behind authors on this list and support, read, share and discuss their books.’

Published by Graphix/Scholastic in the USA and Fremantle Press in Australia and New Zealand, the book is about Maisie, a first-timer at Fancon. In a whirlwind day, Maisie meets Ollie and learns what it’s like to really like someone.

It has previously been a Stonewall Book Award Honour Book and made it onto the New York Public Library’s Best Books for Teens list.