Wow, what a ground breaking middle grade novel. I really enjoyed Sarah Hagger-Holt’s “Nothing Ever Happens Here” and I was excited to read this.

A family comprising of two mums and two donor-conceived kids who are now at an age when they are also questioning their feelings and their families. Each chapter is written alternatively form the viewpoints of Becky and Josh who at aged 13 and nearly-twins who used to share everything, suddenly find the need to keep secrets form each other and their mums. ‘

So many themes are covered in the story which centres around the new Pride Group that is formed at school which is a safe LGBTQ+ place but those in the group are not exclusively LGBTQ+ which addresses the inclusive-ness of Pride. A very supportive teacher, Ms Bryant, oversees the group and stands up to narrow minded parent. Everyone needs a Ms Bryant at school.

As Josh tries to find out who he was donor-conceived from, and Becky discovers new feelings, the story unfolds to cover many elements including friendship, religion, LGBTQ+, internet safety, coming out, donor-conceived, love, family, negative views and honesty.

A wonderfully written book!

Wow!

As a fan of Sarah Hagger-Holt's previous book (Nothing Ever Happens Here) I knew I wanted to read Proud of Me as soon as possible. Thanks to Netgalley for allowing me to read an e-arc for review.

I don't know where to start! So many positive things to say about this story and the characters within it.

The story is based around a family with two mums and two kids that were conceived using a sperm donor. The plot revolves around secrets, Josh and Becky having one each and then a family 'secret' ... although the family secret isn't exactly a 'secret', more something that just isn't talked about.

The book moves between Becky and Josh's points of view chapter by chapter, which works so well to show how their lives fit together, it reflects on their similarities and differences, the things they share and the things they don't.

Many elements are addressed in the story, from LGBTQ+ rights, religion, friendships, coming out, relationships, being donor-conceived, internet safety, opposition, and hateful views. But, they are all done so, so well!

Through the ups and downs it all comes together to leave you with a full-heart and a lovely rounded ending (my biggest peeve is a poorly finished or rushed ending).

I look forward to purchasing this book for my school library and recommending it to the students, as I have with 'Nothing Ever Happens Here'.

I hope Sarah Hagger-Holt continues to write more books like these for young people!

Proud of Me is a beautifully written contemporary story about discovering yourself. Becky is struggling to understand her identity when she develops feelings for a girl at school, Josh is struggling to understand where he came from and who his donor father is. Both stories are heartbreaking and heartwarming, set against the backdrop of family, love and pride.