Commercials for the new Love, Simon movie have been making their way through the internet and onto the television screens of families across America. What some people don’t know is that before it became a movie, it was a book with a different name, Simon Vs. The Homosapien Agenda by Becky Albertalli.

Simon Vs. The Homosapien Agenda is a winner of the William C. Morris Debut Award, an award given to a work of young adult literature by a “first-time author writing for teens.”

The movie comes out (of the closet) on March 16, but before you rush to the theater to see it, learn a little bit about the book.

The main character is Simon Spier, a struggling homosexual trying to keep his identity as secret as he can while being blackmailed. A modern love story with a few twists. Simon isn’t a perfect character either, he has his flaws just like everyone else, which makes him an even more believable character.

Simon Vs. The Homosapien Agenda is a break from the typical, heterosexual love story. A relatable story that LGBT people have been asking for.

“The story was really sweet. I went through so many emotions while I was reading, “ raved Grace Wilkerson ‘20. Simon struggles with his identity around his family, his friends,

“I think it’s a good start for diversity,” commented Margaret Smith ‘19. “It’s another white boy love story, but where are my POC lesbians, or gender neutral characters.”

Before you see the movie give the book a quick read. You won’t be disappointed.