Relatable, Funny, and Endearing

You Should See Me in a Crown was on the top of almost every must-read list that I had seen. So I did. And I’m glad I did. This charming book follows the story of Liz Lighty, a young Black girl in Indiana. She competes to be the Prom Queen so she can win the scholarship that she needs to attend college. Her family life, her friends, and her feelings for the new girl in school complicate the process, her feelings, and her goals.  

The book is a beacon of representation, pushing forward a Black, queer, girl with anxiety as the main character. Liz Lighty is complex and portrayed with great care. Author Leah Jhonson has masterfully depicted anxiety, it’s mental and physical manifestations, as well as the internalized problems of not being white in a mostly white community. Johnson handles the intersectionality deftly through Liz Lighty’s inner conflicts, as well as her reaction to the world around her. She often feels misunderstood by her white friends, a feeling that any BIPOC in the U.S. will relate to.

It was also wonderful to see the complications of a Black family with a chronic illness portrayed so beautifully. Liz lives with her grandparents and her brother, since her mother died of sickle cell anemia. Her brother also has the condition, and a lot Liz’s anxiety surrounds his health. The moments when she chastises herself for being irresponsible and when she misses her mother are touching.

Johnson has also added depth and dimension to supporting characters in the book. Gaby, Liz’s friend and campaign manager contains multitudes. Her character goes beyond just being Liz’s best friend who makes a mistake. She’s deep in her own way. Similarly, Jordan, another one of Liz’s friends is more than just her friend and constant source of support. His own story arc was compelling to me. 

What was also refreshing about Liz and Jordan’s relationship was that the affection between them was so endearing to read. I’m a big fan of stories that have male and female character who are just great friends and are never romantically involved. Jordan and Liz are very much best friends who are nothing more than best friends.  

Overall, You Should See Me in a Crown was a breath of fresh air. Johnson’s clever writing, multiple story arcs, and magnificent representation make this book a must read. I look forward to passing this book on to everyone I know for a quick and refreshing read.