The Breakup Lists

January 15, 2024
Half-Iranian and half-white high school junior Jackson Ghasnavi, who is Deaf and queer, prefers life behind the scenes as a theater tech and stage manager. Ever since his actor boyfriend dumped him as a freshman, he’s avoided romance and finds comfort in making lists of faults of people who annoy him, particularly his older sister Jasmine’s myriad ex-boyfriends. When senior swimming star Liam Coquyt, who reads as white, lands the lead role in the fall musical, Jackson finds himself with a front-row seat to Liam and Jasmine’s budding relationship. And while his own developing friendship with Liam prompts Jackson to wonder if romance might be in his future after all, he balks at the idea of betraying Jasmine’s trust, and must decide what he really wants, even if it means claiming the spotlight for once.
In this emotionally complex rom-com, Khorram (Kiss & Tell) winningly captures Jackson’s struggle finding himself amid the chaos of high school theater. Jackson’s first-person POV recounting his growing crush and his frustration with those around him is both sharp and sincere, making this a wholesome and hilarious tale. Ages 14–up. Agent: Molly O’Neill, Root Literary.