Review: Almost Perfect by Brian Katcher

Almost Perfect by Brian Katcher - 4/5 stars

Logan is getting over a bad break-up. Still obsessed with his ex-girlfriend who he dated for three years, he isn't expecting to fall for another girl but that's what happens when Sage moves to town. She's completely unlike any girl he's ever known - bold, funny and vibrant but with super strict parents. Logan doesn't get why her parents keep her completely sheltered while her sister is able to date and go out until they kiss and Sage shares her secret with Logan - she wasn't born a woman.

Logan, still reeling from the shock, says some pretty hateful things that he immediately becomes to regret but will he ever see Sage the same way again? And if he does, does that make him gay?

It was really interesting reading Logan's reaction to Sage. Logan, who comes from a small town, who has never even met anyone gay, let alone transgendered, doesn't know how to handle it at all. His journey from being disgusted to realizing that Sage deserves his understanding and compassion feels completely realistic. Katcher doesn't shy away from Logan's honesty, even when he's thinking pretty awful things that are painful to read and it makes his final acceptance that much more meaningful.

Sage herself is really well written too and her experience is unfortunately not the exception. I completely ached for her the entire time. I wish we got more of her story.

Overall, Almost Perfect felt like an honest, raw potrayal of the transgender experience. Definitely recommended.

(reviewed from an e-book borrowed from my library)