Critical Praise

“In addition to being an enjoyable, engrossing story, Girl Mans Up makes the reader question things that we, as a society, take for granted. One such example is the idea that children owe their parents respect. While undoubtedly true, don’t parents owe their children the same? That the author effortlessly inspires such reflection is nothing short of remarkable.”
~ Quill & Quire

“…powerful debut…”
~ Publishers Weekly (starred review)

“This is a fresh title in the growing sea of LGBTQ YA literature. There is no sugarcoating in this very real portrayal of an aspect of teen life that many experience. Recommended for fans of YA urban fiction as well as those who prefer grittier LGBTQ lit.”
~ School Library Journal (starred review)

“A strong genderqueer lesbian character, imperfect, independent, and deserving of every cheer.”
~ Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

“Girard’s novel is compulsively readable, by turns wrenching and euphoric. Pen is an inspiration to anyone who’s struggled to be understood, and a vital addition to the growing world of genderqueer protagonists.”
~ The New York Times Book Review

“A powerful book about identity, belonging, and the collision between sexuality and cultural expectations.”
~ Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books

“GIRL MANS UP is mind blowing. Pen has stolen my heart always. Her voice is so honest and raw that it is enrapturing. It is such an incredible look at gender, race, and sexuality that I hope it becomes an instant classic.”
~ Grace Wright, Parnassus Books (Nashville, TN)

“Fierce. Tender. Unstoppable.”
~ Lauren Myracle, New York Times bestselling author of The Infinite Moment of Us and co-author of How to Be Bad

“Courageous. Vibrant. Original.”
~ Michael Cart, Columnist at ALA Booklist and Former President of Young Adult Library Services

“Heartfelt. Refreshing. True.”
~ Ariel Schrag, author of Potential and Adam

“I loved it. A brilliant new writer to watch.”
~ Malinda Lo, author of Ash, Adaptation, and Inheritance and co-founder of Diversity in YA

“Respeito for Pen.”
~ Sara Ryan, Award winning author of Empress of the World and Bad Houses

“Raw. Real. Irresistable.”
~ I.W. Gregorio, author of None of the Above