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I Have Something to Tell You―For Young Adults: A Memoir
An instant New York Times bestseller!
“A perfect juxtaposition of ordinary and extraordinary, told with humor, compassion, and unshakeable hope.” —Becky Albertalli, New York Times bestselling author of Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda
The young adult adaptation of the “hopeful” ( Kirkus Reviews ) and refreshingly candid bestselling memoir by the husband of a former Democratic presidential candidate about growing up gay in his small Midwestern town. Completely rewritten with new stories, including resources for readers, parents, and teachers.
Growing up, Chasten Glezman Buttigieg didn’t always fit in. He felt different from his father and brothers, who loved to hunt and go camping, and out of place in the rural, conservative small town where he lived. Back then, blending in was more important than feeling seen.
So, when Chasten realized he was gay, he kept that part of himself hidden away for a long, painful time. With incredible bravery, and the support of his loved ones, Chasten eventually came out—and when he did, he learned that being true to himself was the most rewarding journey of all.
Finding acceptance and self-love can seem like a tremendous challenge, but it’s never impossible. With honesty, courage, and warmth, Chasten relays his experience of growing up in America and embracing his identity, while inspiring young people across the country to do the same.
“A perfect juxtaposition of ordinary and extraordinary, told with humor, compassion, and unshakeable hope.” —Becky Albertalli, New York Times bestselling author of Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda
The young adult adaptation of the “hopeful” ( Kirkus Reviews ) and refreshingly candid bestselling memoir by the husband of a former Democratic presidential candidate about growing up gay in his small Midwestern town. Completely rewritten with new stories, including resources for readers, parents, and teachers.
Growing up, Chasten Glezman Buttigieg didn’t always fit in. He felt different from his father and brothers, who loved to hunt and go camping, and out of place in the rural, conservative small town where he lived. Back then, blending in was more important than feeling seen.
So, when Chasten realized he was gay, he kept that part of himself hidden away for a long, painful time. With incredible bravery, and the support of his loved ones, Chasten eventually came out—and when he did, he learned that being true to himself was the most rewarding journey of all.
Finding acceptance and self-love can seem like a tremendous challenge, but it’s never impossible. With honesty, courage, and warmth, Chasten relays his experience of growing up in America and embracing his identity, while inspiring young people across the country to do the same.
- GenresYoung AdultLGBTQueer
224 pages, Hardcover
Published May 16, 2023
About the author
Chasten Glezman Buttigieg
2 books462 followersChasten Glezman Buttigieg grew up in Traverse City, Michigan. He is a teacher, advocate, and husband of former presidential candidate Pete Buttigieg. Chasten currently lives with Pete; their two children, Gus and Penelope; and their two rescue dogs, Buddy and Truman, in Northern Michigan. I Have Something to Tell You—For Young Adults is his second book.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
May 20, 2023
This is a memoir by the husband of a former Democratic presidential candidate (Pete Buttigieg) about growing up gay in his small Midwestern town. He talks about his experience and how he learned after years of hiding who he was. This book comes at a time in our political landscape to teach young people across the country to stand up for their beliefs and accept everyone for who they are.
Even though his story is heartbreaking, the author did an excellent job weaving in humor and lighthearted moments. One amazing passage that stood out was when the author wrote, "It might seem impossible right now, but there will come a day when you will stop caring about what all these kids think about you, and that secret you're doing your very best to hide will one day be the thing that helps you make a tremendous impact in the world. In fact, once you embrace that secret, you're going to fall in love both with yourself and with someone else. 'Oh, gross,' younger me says. I know. I laugh. A few times, actually. And you're going to get your heart broken into a million little pieces, and that's just fine because you'll pick yourself up, glue your heart back together, and be better for it. And then you'll go do impressive things that mean so much to so many people. And you really do meet a prince. 'Okay, now I know you're not real.' Well, he's technically a mayor, but stick with me."
To listen to my interview with the author, go to my podcast at:
https://www.momsdonthavetimetoreadboo...
Even though his story is heartbreaking, the author did an excellent job weaving in humor and lighthearted moments. One amazing passage that stood out was when the author wrote, "It might seem impossible right now, but there will come a day when you will stop caring about what all these kids think about you, and that secret you're doing your very best to hide will one day be the thing that helps you make a tremendous impact in the world. In fact, once you embrace that secret, you're going to fall in love both with yourself and with someone else. 'Oh, gross,' younger me says. I know. I laugh. A few times, actually. And you're going to get your heart broken into a million little pieces, and that's just fine because you'll pick yourself up, glue your heart back together, and be better for it. And then you'll go do impressive things that mean so much to so many people. And you really do meet a prince. 'Okay, now I know you're not real.' Well, he's technically a mayor, but stick with me."
To listen to my interview with the author, go to my podcast at:
https://www.momsdonthavetimetoreadboo...
June 29, 2023
Okay, this is going in my 7th & 9th grade classroom library because it is exactly the kind of message adolescents and teens need to hear as they navigate through an awkward & difficult time in their development. My main take-aways:
1. It’s more than okay to be YOU! Embrace all the aspects of your character & being as unique, important, and human. While junior high and high school has a tendency to create clicks and hierarchies, learn to be authentically yourself and search for people who have the grace & maturity to accept you for you.
2. Everyone is walking a unique path. This story is not just about Chasten feeling different than the cultural archetypes his childhood community valued because he was gay. This is a story where every teen who has felt out of step with the “mainstream,” every child who has been teased because of their appearance, their disability, their social awkwardness, every adolescent trying to make sense of who they are can see themselves. And know that they are not alone. It will get better.
3. Words matter. Actions matter more. Everyone has a responsibility to create a society that is tolerant, respectful, inclusive, and productive. Name calling, bullying, actively creating barriers against folks we disagree with makes for a small table and a hostile environment. It also diminishes people into two dimensional stereotypes instead of the complex human beings they are.
I could not find anything in this book that made it controversial. It is positive messaging that throws a lifeline to kids who are struggling and a recourse for reflection to those who see others struggling. It is not “encouraging” homosexuality (as one critic said) but simply acknowledging that some people are gay and that can be very difficult for a young person. Chasten writes in an informal, conversational way that, I think, kids will resonate with. He does not “preach”; he simply tells his own story. Also he is very respectful and complimentary of his parents and their love & support.
So, it’s going in my classroom library in West Lafayette. 😊 Thank you, Mr. Buttigieg, for writing this important story for young people.
1. It’s more than okay to be YOU! Embrace all the aspects of your character & being as unique, important, and human. While junior high and high school has a tendency to create clicks and hierarchies, learn to be authentically yourself and search for people who have the grace & maturity to accept you for you.
2. Everyone is walking a unique path. This story is not just about Chasten feeling different than the cultural archetypes his childhood community valued because he was gay. This is a story where every teen who has felt out of step with the “mainstream,” every child who has been teased because of their appearance, their disability, their social awkwardness, every adolescent trying to make sense of who they are can see themselves. And know that they are not alone. It will get better.
3. Words matter. Actions matter more. Everyone has a responsibility to create a society that is tolerant, respectful, inclusive, and productive. Name calling, bullying, actively creating barriers against folks we disagree with makes for a small table and a hostile environment. It also diminishes people into two dimensional stereotypes instead of the complex human beings they are.
I could not find anything in this book that made it controversial. It is positive messaging that throws a lifeline to kids who are struggling and a recourse for reflection to those who see others struggling. It is not “encouraging” homosexuality (as one critic said) but simply acknowledging that some people are gay and that can be very difficult for a young person. Chasten writes in an informal, conversational way that, I think, kids will resonate with. He does not “preach”; he simply tells his own story. Also he is very respectful and complimentary of his parents and their love & support.
So, it’s going in my classroom library in West Lafayette. 😊 Thank you, Mr. Buttigieg, for writing this important story for young people.
April 18, 2023
*As is the nature of a memoir, many topics are discussed and could be considered trigger warnings for many people.*
Trigger Warnings: coming out, guns, politics, homophobia, internalized homophobia, misogyny, bullying, sexual assault, domestic violence, break-up, alcohol, classism, depression, suicidal thoughts, death of a parent, cancer, injury, Pulse night club shooting, Parkland school shooting
Representation: Gay, mental health
I Have Something to Tell You is the young adult adaptation of the hopeful and refreshingly candid bestselling memoir by the husband of a former Democratic presidential candidate about growing up gay in his small Midwestern town.
Growing up, Chasten Glezman Buttigieg didn’t always fit in. He felt different from his father and brothers, who loved to hunt and go camping, and out of place in the rural, conservative small town where he lived. Back then, blending in was more important than feeling seen. When Chasten realized he was gay, he kept that part of himself hidden away for a long, painful time. With incredible bravery, and the support of his loved ones, Chasten eventually came out—and when he did, he learned that being true to himself was the most rewarding journey of all.
Finding acceptance and self-love can seem like a tremendous challenge, but it’s never impossible. With honesty, courage, and warmth, Chasten relays his experience of growing up in America and embracing his identity, while inspiring young people across the country to do the same.
This ARC was provided by the publisher as part of the pride book tours review tour in exchange for an honest review.
This book is such a cool glimpse into the side of politics we don’t get to see! I loved Chasten’s wholesome coming out story and thoroughly enjoyed this young adult adaptation. This is a beautiful and raw memoir that provides hope for teens struggling with their sexuality and shows that they deserve to be loved for who they are. The writing is perfect for young adults and I look forward to more from this debut author.
Trigger Warnings: coming out, guns, politics, homophobia, internalized homophobia, misogyny, bullying, sexual assault, domestic violence, break-up, alcohol, classism, depression, suicidal thoughts, death of a parent, cancer, injury, Pulse night club shooting, Parkland school shooting
Representation: Gay, mental health
I Have Something to Tell You is the young adult adaptation of the hopeful and refreshingly candid bestselling memoir by the husband of a former Democratic presidential candidate about growing up gay in his small Midwestern town.
Growing up, Chasten Glezman Buttigieg didn’t always fit in. He felt different from his father and brothers, who loved to hunt and go camping, and out of place in the rural, conservative small town where he lived. Back then, blending in was more important than feeling seen. When Chasten realized he was gay, he kept that part of himself hidden away for a long, painful time. With incredible bravery, and the support of his loved ones, Chasten eventually came out—and when he did, he learned that being true to himself was the most rewarding journey of all.
Finding acceptance and self-love can seem like a tremendous challenge, but it’s never impossible. With honesty, courage, and warmth, Chasten relays his experience of growing up in America and embracing his identity, while inspiring young people across the country to do the same.
This ARC was provided by the publisher as part of the pride book tours review tour in exchange for an honest review.
This book is such a cool glimpse into the side of politics we don’t get to see! I loved Chasten’s wholesome coming out story and thoroughly enjoyed this young adult adaptation. This is a beautiful and raw memoir that provides hope for teens struggling with their sexuality and shows that they deserve to be loved for who they are. The writing is perfect for young adults and I look forward to more from this debut author.
March 9, 2023
Grateful to have received an advanced reader’s copy of this forthcoming memoir! It’s absolutely lovely. Fascinating and captivating look into Chasten Buttigieg’s life. More or less apolitical, this book is for everyone, but especially, importantly, critically, for our young LGBTQIA+ family. There is no right or wrong way to come out. There is no right or wrong time to come out. Many many thanks to the author for emphasizing this in his important effort for young people. It will save lives.
March 31, 2024
I Have Something to Tell You is a memoir written by Chasten Buttigieg, the husband of former presidential candidate Pete Buttigieg. He details his early childhood life living in Traverse City and how 4-H, Fishing Camp, and hanging outdoors gave him a new love for the natural world. It also shows how as he got older, he realized that as much as he loved his country boy lifestyle, he began to feel like an outsider. This isolation led him to break out of the mold, move to Germany, and then go away to college. His journey of coming out made every other part of his life more difficult, but the end of the book shows the importance of living your authentic feelings fully.
As a high school teacher, this is a book that deserves to be in every classroom library. Whether in the LGBTQIA+ population or not, students should have access to a variety of stories about young adulthood and all the difficult trials that can come with it. It will teach hard work, resilience, honesty, and compassion!
As a high school teacher, this is a book that deserves to be in every classroom library. Whether in the LGBTQIA+ population or not, students should have access to a variety of stories about young adulthood and all the difficult trials that can come with it. It will teach hard work, resilience, honesty, and compassion!
March 30, 2023
Bravo! What a joy to read this honest, well-written, beautiful memoir from Chasten. As a Michigander, I loved the descriptions of life in our state and appreciated the complexity of being yourself in this quite-conservative state. I’m buying this for my young nieces. It’s important to have our leaders represented as a whole person with real stories about challenges and triumphs. I’m an ally and a mom of a queer teen and I Loved it. Heartfelt thanks to Simon & Schuster’s Children’s Publishing. .
June 14, 2023
Reading this book was very inspiring and very deep. I could relate to a lot of this book, with what Chasten was going through with being closeted and dealing with many mental issues. Like I do myself.
I didn't know much about Chasten until I went to his book talk a month ago, which was a wonderful experience, and it made me want to know more about him through his book. As I read this book, I understood how his words can change your look at things.
I highly recommend reading this book, not only because I believe it will help the LGBTQ+ Community. Because I think that it can help anyone to know that they are not alone in this, and this book can broaden their horizons and help them learn something new.
I didn't know much about Chasten until I went to his book talk a month ago, which was a wonderful experience, and it made me want to know more about him through his book. As I read this book, I understood how his words can change your look at things.
I highly recommend reading this book, not only because I believe it will help the LGBTQ+ Community. Because I think that it can help anyone to know that they are not alone in this, and this book can broaden their horizons and help them learn something new.
April 23, 2023
Thank you NetGalley, Simon and Schuster Children's Publishing and Chasten Buttigieg for providing me with an advanced copy of the Young Adult adaptation of 'I Have Something to Tell You'.
Available 16 May 2023 - will post to socials closer to the release date.
This is great storytelling of Chasten's childhood, coming out and growth into a young adult in rural, Midwest USA. I assume it is rural, I am not great with American geography! I hope that the aim for this is to have two copies in every library across the States, one with the fun yellow and rainbow cover and one as a plain cover for our young Queers that are not living in supportive and safe environments.
I really enjoyed the exploration into the exploitation of young people by the college debt schemes and the pressure that is placed on teenagers to have their entire life planned out! And that is for all the kids, let alone for that Queer teens! It is the Queer teens/Young Adults that need to place time, energy and mental resources into dealing with their sexuality or gender identity on top of dealing with normal teenage life!
This is a very easy read and has been pitched at the YA/Teen cohort of readers. I found Chasten to be very funny, I don't know if the 'kids these days' will be vibing it but I assume that is what editors are for. Is the content groundbreaking? No. But will it help Queer youth across the globe? Absolutely.
As an adult that is only about 5 years younger then Chasten I am very jealous of my partner not having run for Prime Minister yet!!! On this timeline he only has three years to get to the Prime Ministerial campaign trail but I can't even convince him to run for Local Government! LAMKIN for MAYOR 2024!!! (I would do it myself but I don't like talking to people)
But in all truth, I appreciate the ability for Chasten to speak opening about his and Peter's journey into politics, if only very briefly! As I am sure there is more to come for these two :)
Available 16 May 2023 - will post to socials closer to the release date.
This is great storytelling of Chasten's childhood, coming out and growth into a young adult in rural, Midwest USA. I assume it is rural, I am not great with American geography! I hope that the aim for this is to have two copies in every library across the States, one with the fun yellow and rainbow cover and one as a plain cover for our young Queers that are not living in supportive and safe environments.
I really enjoyed the exploration into the exploitation of young people by the college debt schemes and the pressure that is placed on teenagers to have their entire life planned out! And that is for all the kids, let alone for that Queer teens! It is the Queer teens/Young Adults that need to place time, energy and mental resources into dealing with their sexuality or gender identity on top of dealing with normal teenage life!
This is a very easy read and has been pitched at the YA/Teen cohort of readers. I found Chasten to be very funny, I don't know if the 'kids these days' will be vibing it but I assume that is what editors are for. Is the content groundbreaking? No. But will it help Queer youth across the globe? Absolutely.
As an adult that is only about 5 years younger then Chasten I am very jealous of my partner not having run for Prime Minister yet!!! On this timeline he only has three years to get to the Prime Ministerial campaign trail but I can't even convince him to run for Local Government! LAMKIN for MAYOR 2024!!! (I would do it myself but I don't like talking to people)
But in all truth, I appreciate the ability for Chasten to speak opening about his and Peter's journey into politics, if only very briefly! As I am sure there is more to come for these two :)
June 5, 2023
I have followed the Buttigieg family for a while and was ecstatic to read Chasten’s YA memoir.
Chasten talks of growing up gay in a small religious midwestern town, among his loving, but not always understanding, parents and two older brothers. Things were far from easy, having to keep a big part of himself a secret, and it reflects a lot of the experiences queer teens still face today.
Many people will relate to feeling like the odd one out within family, school, and society, and I love how it's communicated in language a younger audience will be able to read. The book is written in a lighthearted and easy-to-digest tone, and there is a lot of good advice and assurance sprinkled in it.
I can relate to his experience of joining the 5th-grade basketball team and being no good at it (my personal unfortunate anecdote was making the team in 7th grade and being the world’s best benchwarmer), and studying abroad in Europe, learning about yourself, meeting people who are more open, then coming back to the conservative place you live in with a whole new perspective.
I have asked “Where was this when I was younger?” far too much while reading recently released YA literature. This book was no different! As a teen, I read books like “Chicken Soup for the Teenage Soul” and “Perks of Being a Wallflower”, and while I could relate to the teenagers in these books on some level, there was always a thought in the back of my head like “I’m not exactly like that”, and I can only imagine what a queer teenager must feel like because these books had little to no queer representation. This book sends the message that there are people out there going through the same struggles you are, and everything will be okay.
I’m happy that queer social figures like Chasten are creating a world with more love, acceptance, and inclusivity.
Thank you @pridebooktours and @simonteen for sending me an ARC. A special thanks to @chasten.buttigieg for sharing this amazing memoir with us!
Chasten talks of growing up gay in a small religious midwestern town, among his loving, but not always understanding, parents and two older brothers. Things were far from easy, having to keep a big part of himself a secret, and it reflects a lot of the experiences queer teens still face today.
Many people will relate to feeling like the odd one out within family, school, and society, and I love how it's communicated in language a younger audience will be able to read. The book is written in a lighthearted and easy-to-digest tone, and there is a lot of good advice and assurance sprinkled in it.
I can relate to his experience of joining the 5th-grade basketball team and being no good at it (my personal unfortunate anecdote was making the team in 7th grade and being the world’s best benchwarmer), and studying abroad in Europe, learning about yourself, meeting people who are more open, then coming back to the conservative place you live in with a whole new perspective.
I have asked “Where was this when I was younger?” far too much while reading recently released YA literature. This book was no different! As a teen, I read books like “Chicken Soup for the Teenage Soul” and “Perks of Being a Wallflower”, and while I could relate to the teenagers in these books on some level, there was always a thought in the back of my head like “I’m not exactly like that”, and I can only imagine what a queer teenager must feel like because these books had little to no queer representation. This book sends the message that there are people out there going through the same struggles you are, and everything will be okay.
I’m happy that queer social figures like Chasten are creating a world with more love, acceptance, and inclusivity.
Thank you @pridebooktours and @simonteen for sending me an ARC. A special thanks to @chasten.buttigieg for sharing this amazing memoir with us!
August 28, 2023
I bought this book after listening to Chasten Buttigieg’s talk at the National Book Festival a few weeks ago. There were only a few copies left and I didn’t realize I was buying the young adult version (even though it’s written very obviously on the cover). The book was great but I’m not sure if listening to him speak and having him sign my copy made me enjoy it even more. Either way, this is a good read for adults or young adults.
June 11, 2023
Full disclosure, I had no idea who Chasten was besides Mayor Pete's husband when I saw the offer for this ARC, but the synopsis and the reviews were so positive.
This is a fantastic book, and you need to get it for the teens in your life, especially if they're in a small town, or unfortunately anywhere in some of the most populated states. I did find the start to be a little slow, but I was also reading the memoir of someone I wasn't actually invested in at that point, so YMMV.
Thank you very much to Simon and Schuster Children's Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC!
This is a fantastic book, and you need to get it for the teens in your life, especially if they're in a small town, or unfortunately anywhere in some of the most populated states. I did find the start to be a little slow, but I was also reading the memoir of someone I wasn't actually invested in at that point, so YMMV.
Thank you very much to Simon and Schuster Children's Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC!
June 3, 2023
This new release is Chasten Buttigieg's memoir adapted for young audiences. In the book, he talks about his experiences growing up in a small, conservative town in Michigan. And he describes his journey coming out, being a first generation college student, and eventually falling for and marrying Peter Buttigieg.
I thought this had a great conversational tone. It was clearly rewritten for children and explicitly talked about what he would have wanted to hear in eighth grade. That included topics ranging from politics and the impact they can have on our lives to student loans and financial aid.
But of course, much of the content focused on his experiences as a gay man. And he tried to provide hope for the future while being upfront about both the positive and negative reactions he experienced. I found it quite powerful, though I would have liked a bit clearer organizational structure.
I especially appreciated that Chasten Buttigieg read the audiobook himself. That's always my preference for memoirs. And he made me want to listen to his original memoir in addition to this YA adapation.
Thank you to Simon Audio for the complimentary audiobook. These opinions are my own.
I thought this had a great conversational tone. It was clearly rewritten for children and explicitly talked about what he would have wanted to hear in eighth grade. That included topics ranging from politics and the impact they can have on our lives to student loans and financial aid.
But of course, much of the content focused on his experiences as a gay man. And he tried to provide hope for the future while being upfront about both the positive and negative reactions he experienced. I found it quite powerful, though I would have liked a bit clearer organizational structure.
I especially appreciated that Chasten Buttigieg read the audiobook himself. That's always my preference for memoirs. And he made me want to listen to his original memoir in addition to this YA adapation.
Thank you to Simon Audio for the complimentary audiobook. These opinions are my own.
November 12, 2023
Several moments of 4&5 star content with vulnerability and perspective but overall felt lacking as far as memoirs go
February 12, 2024
I wanted a lot more from this but I probably should’ve read the adult version instead…
April 14, 2024
Painful, but still moving and hopeful.
May 30, 2023
I loved it. I wish all high school students could read it. Now I need to listen to the version for adults.
April 14, 2023
As the husband of former presidential candidate Pete Buttigieg, Chasten Buttigieg has seen his share of the spotlight. But his most recent moments of fame have primarily been in a supporting role, reinforcing the efforts of his husband. In this book, Chasten takes center stage, introducing readers to his history while encouraging them to embrace their own identities, even when the world around them feels scary. Originally written as an autobiography for adults, this edition has been modified to focus on young adults, instead. Using a conversational tone, Chasten sounds as though he is speaking directly to the reader, sharing moments of triumph and moments of hardship in raw and accessible ways. Regardless of the reader's background or preferences, this book invites everyone into Chasten's experiences in a way that serves as both a mirror and a window. Humor and cringe-worthy admissions endear Chasten to the reader, which allows for increased empathy when times get tough for him. Approachable and relatable, Chasten is fortunate to come from a loving household that gave him the skills and tenacity to become a success in his own right. As readers learn Chasten's story, they become more aware of the challenges he faced as a youth and how others' behavior and actions impacted him as he grew up. At the end of the book, a list of reflection questions and resources help guide young people and teachers in productive and transformative conversations pertaining to the material in this book. While some moments in Chasten’s life may be triggering to some readers, everything is presented in a way that reflects Chasten’s authentic experience, even when those moments were not very pretty. Immersive and engaging, this is an essential addition to nonfiction library collections for young adult readers.
August 11, 2023
This book is a gift, one I wish I had had as a teenager. It is honest, heartfelt, and ultimately hopeful. This is the kind of book the next generation needs when trying to maneuver this insane world.
May 26, 2023
I'd never had any interest in reading the memoirs of a political spouse till after I picked up this book. It's an adaptation of Chasten Glezman Buttigieg's 2021 autobiography, originally written for adults, but with a message that's so, so necessary for younger readers, too.
I mean, even for a grown person like myself who is older than both Mr Buttigieg and his more famous husband, this was a much needed look at how much better life has gotten for queer people in the United States in the last fifteen to twenty years alone. The author candidly discusses how he went from being a closeted, unhappy teen in a Traverse City, Michigan high school that had no out queer students, to returning as an adult to speak to their LGBTQ+ Club. Mr Buttigieg's honest recounting of his own experiences and feelings underscores just how awful things used to be only a very short time ago.
But the memoir isn't just a stark, if necessary reminder of how things were (and, obviously, what any person with an ounce of empathy and human feeling should seek to avoid going back to.) It's also a great example of how much we can change things for the better in only a decade or so. While the book doesn't go into the kind of activism necessary for such change, it does set a mostly good example in being true to yourself and following your dreams, as young Chasten figures out who he is and what he truly wants to do with his life. It's a tough road and he inevitably stumbles along the way, but he navigates it with heart and a hell of a lot more forgiveness than I'm personally capable of.
The only time that he actually fails himself is also a valuable object lesson for people still battling internal homophobia, or self-hatred of any kind. When he's finally ready to come out to his parents, he automatically assumes that they're going to kick him out of the house, so makes plans to leave immediately after telling them. Even tho his mom pleads with him to come home, he's so frozen in flight mode that he feels compelled to stay away, despite being stuck in circumstances that are bad for both his emotional and physical well-being. I breathed a sigh of relief when he finally let his mom persuade him to move back in, when he accepted that his parents weren't mad or looking to punish him for being honest about who he is.
Of course, not all kids are this lucky: some families are terrible and cruel. But there's a lot to be said for not locking yourself into your own imaginary worst case scenario such that you punish yourself worse than others are willing to, just because you fear their scorn so much that it causes you to do the very thing -- in this case, estrange yourself from your loved ones -- that you don't want them to do to you. The world is going to be hard enough on you without you beating yourself up, too. I Have Something To Tell You reminds every reader to be a good friend to yourself first and foremost.
Readable and compelling, this book also includes resources for mental health and LGBTQ+ support. The political stuff, tho relatively sparse, serves to underscore the more important lessons of self-esteem and self-acceptance. It does genuinely feel like Mr Buttigieg is using his platform not for any personal or political gain but to offer a message of hope for vulnerable kids. It's really great to read.
I Have Something To Tell You ― For Young Adults: A Memoir by Chasten Glezman Buttigieg was published May 16 2023 by Atheneum Books For Young Readers and is available from all good booksellers, including Bookshop!
This review originally appeared at TheFrumiousConsortium.net.
I mean, even for a grown person like myself who is older than both Mr Buttigieg and his more famous husband, this was a much needed look at how much better life has gotten for queer people in the United States in the last fifteen to twenty years alone. The author candidly discusses how he went from being a closeted, unhappy teen in a Traverse City, Michigan high school that had no out queer students, to returning as an adult to speak to their LGBTQ+ Club. Mr Buttigieg's honest recounting of his own experiences and feelings underscores just how awful things used to be only a very short time ago.
But the memoir isn't just a stark, if necessary reminder of how things were (and, obviously, what any person with an ounce of empathy and human feeling should seek to avoid going back to.) It's also a great example of how much we can change things for the better in only a decade or so. While the book doesn't go into the kind of activism necessary for such change, it does set a mostly good example in being true to yourself and following your dreams, as young Chasten figures out who he is and what he truly wants to do with his life. It's a tough road and he inevitably stumbles along the way, but he navigates it with heart and a hell of a lot more forgiveness than I'm personally capable of.
The only time that he actually fails himself is also a valuable object lesson for people still battling internal homophobia, or self-hatred of any kind. When he's finally ready to come out to his parents, he automatically assumes that they're going to kick him out of the house, so makes plans to leave immediately after telling them. Even tho his mom pleads with him to come home, he's so frozen in flight mode that he feels compelled to stay away, despite being stuck in circumstances that are bad for both his emotional and physical well-being. I breathed a sigh of relief when he finally let his mom persuade him to move back in, when he accepted that his parents weren't mad or looking to punish him for being honest about who he is.
Of course, not all kids are this lucky: some families are terrible and cruel. But there's a lot to be said for not locking yourself into your own imaginary worst case scenario such that you punish yourself worse than others are willing to, just because you fear their scorn so much that it causes you to do the very thing -- in this case, estrange yourself from your loved ones -- that you don't want them to do to you. The world is going to be hard enough on you without you beating yourself up, too. I Have Something To Tell You reminds every reader to be a good friend to yourself first and foremost.
Readable and compelling, this book also includes resources for mental health and LGBTQ+ support. The political stuff, tho relatively sparse, serves to underscore the more important lessons of self-esteem and self-acceptance. It does genuinely feel like Mr Buttigieg is using his platform not for any personal or political gain but to offer a message of hope for vulnerable kids. It's really great to read.
I Have Something To Tell You ― For Young Adults: A Memoir by Chasten Glezman Buttigieg was published May 16 2023 by Atheneum Books For Young Readers and is available from all good booksellers, including Bookshop!
This review originally appeared at TheFrumiousConsortium.net.
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May 29, 2023After writing his memoir for adults, Chasten Buttigieg has also written a version for young adults. Using his experience as a middle school teacher in this kid friendly edition, Buttigieg captures what it was like growing up in Traverse City, Michigan.
Chasten tells about his family and what it was like to be different than his siblings. His loving parents had high expectations for their children and were proud of what they accomplished. More imaginative and creative than a lot of the other kids Chasten grew up with, he channeled his energy into drama and art endeavors. Knowing that his drama teacher offered a safe space in the school theater, he sought out this space as often as possible.
His energetic work ethic kept him busy as he worked multiple jobs with the goal to buy a car that promised his freedom to get beyond Traverse City. His senior year in high school was spent as an exchange student in Germany. This experience convinced him that he needed to go to college to broaden his worldview even more.
College wasn't exactly the escape Chasten hoped it would be. He still didn't fit in and switched his field of study numerous times. Finally ending up majoring in drama, he found his people. Also by then, he knew he was gay, but opening up about it especially with his parents was a challenge.
I HAVE SOMETHING TO TELL YOU details the difficulties of growing up as gay in a conservative part of the country. His honest, straight-forward approach as he explains the challenges will surely be just the thing many young LGBTQ+ readers will find helpful.
Chasten tells about his family and what it was like to be different than his siblings. His loving parents had high expectations for their children and were proud of what they accomplished. More imaginative and creative than a lot of the other kids Chasten grew up with, he channeled his energy into drama and art endeavors. Knowing that his drama teacher offered a safe space in the school theater, he sought out this space as often as possible.
His energetic work ethic kept him busy as he worked multiple jobs with the goal to buy a car that promised his freedom to get beyond Traverse City. His senior year in high school was spent as an exchange student in Germany. This experience convinced him that he needed to go to college to broaden his worldview even more.
College wasn't exactly the escape Chasten hoped it would be. He still didn't fit in and switched his field of study numerous times. Finally ending up majoring in drama, he found his people. Also by then, he knew he was gay, but opening up about it especially with his parents was a challenge.
I HAVE SOMETHING TO TELL YOU details the difficulties of growing up as gay in a conservative part of the country. His honest, straight-forward approach as he explains the challenges will surely be just the thing many young LGBTQ+ readers will find helpful.
April 23, 2023
“And, it turns out, love-whether it comes from someone else or from inside yourself-can make all the difference.”
I'd like to thank Simon & Schuster for sending me an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review!
I've also posted this review on Instagram and my blog.
Instagram Post
Blog Post
Content Warnings: homophobia, bullying, mention of suicidal thoughts and depression
This memoir was heartwarming and inspiring! I thought that this young adult adaptation did a great job of being engaging and informative. One of my favourite aspects was the writing style. It felt as if you were having a chat with Chasten as he told the story of his childhood. The tone was very conversational and open, which made my reading experience even more enjoyable. As he recounts his past experiences, Chasten touches on several topics pertaining to LGBTQ+ youth. He also imparts general life advice, about everything from school to future life plans. I Have Something to Tell You is a great resource for LGTQ+ youth, allies, and adults, it even has some discussion questions at the back of the book. Chasten's childhood photos were also fun to see and added another personal touch to the book as a whole.
A beautiful story that will inspire many young adults.
I'd like to thank Simon & Schuster for sending me an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review!
I've also posted this review on Instagram and my blog.
Instagram Post
Blog Post
Content Warnings: homophobia, bullying, mention of suicidal thoughts and depression
This memoir was heartwarming and inspiring! I thought that this young adult adaptation did a great job of being engaging and informative. One of my favourite aspects was the writing style. It felt as if you were having a chat with Chasten as he told the story of his childhood. The tone was very conversational and open, which made my reading experience even more enjoyable. As he recounts his past experiences, Chasten touches on several topics pertaining to LGBTQ+ youth. He also imparts general life advice, about everything from school to future life plans. I Have Something to Tell You is a great resource for LGTQ+ youth, allies, and adults, it even has some discussion questions at the back of the book. Chasten's childhood photos were also fun to see and added another personal touch to the book as a whole.
A beautiful story that will inspire many young adults.
June 13, 2023
Add me on BookTok here: https://www.tiktok.com/@blissandbooks
Book provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review
"I Have Something to Tell You" by Chasten Buttigieg is an absolutely delightful and hilarious memoir that tells his story of self-acceptance and coming out of the closet. This gem of a book follows Chasten's personal journey of self-discovery and the funny (and sometimes challenging) moments he experienced along the way. It's like having a heartfelt conversation with a good friend over a cup of coffee.
This heartwarming memoir is suitable for young adult readers, but it particularly resonates with those who identify as queer. Chasten's witty and relatable storytelling style is easily digestible for young readers and he discusses opportunities like living abroad in detailed ways that made me want to visit Europe again. He also goes into some tough details about the challenges of campaigning and the bigotry his family faced when his husband Pete Buttigieg was running for President.
"I Have Something to Tell You" is an enjoyable read for Pride month and reminds young adults to embrace their authentic selves.
Book provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review
"I Have Something to Tell You" by Chasten Buttigieg is an absolutely delightful and hilarious memoir that tells his story of self-acceptance and coming out of the closet. This gem of a book follows Chasten's personal journey of self-discovery and the funny (and sometimes challenging) moments he experienced along the way. It's like having a heartfelt conversation with a good friend over a cup of coffee.
This heartwarming memoir is suitable for young adult readers, but it particularly resonates with those who identify as queer. Chasten's witty and relatable storytelling style is easily digestible for young readers and he discusses opportunities like living abroad in detailed ways that made me want to visit Europe again. He also goes into some tough details about the challenges of campaigning and the bigotry his family faced when his husband Pete Buttigieg was running for President.
"I Have Something to Tell You" is an enjoyable read for Pride month and reminds young adults to embrace their authentic selves.
May 2, 2023
"This is why it is so important to go out of your way to make sure that everyone feels welcome and accepted for who they are. You never know everything that your peers are going through and sometimes all someone needs is a safe and welcoming place to each lunch"
This story is so perfect for young adults. Chasten tells his story about finding his way through the years as a gay teen from a conservative area of Michigan with humor, thoughtfulness and a call to action.
He implores everyone... "If you have a seat at the table, it's important to uplift those who have yet to be heard."
He has such an interesting path that landed him where he is. He's experienced so many things. His overarching message of telling people that it's okay to be different and how important it is to love yourself is a message that all youth can benefit from hearing.
I enjoyed this so much and recommend it for everyone.
This story is so perfect for young adults. Chasten tells his story about finding his way through the years as a gay teen from a conservative area of Michigan with humor, thoughtfulness and a call to action.
He implores everyone... "If you have a seat at the table, it's important to uplift those who have yet to be heard."
He has such an interesting path that landed him where he is. He's experienced so many things. His overarching message of telling people that it's okay to be different and how important it is to love yourself is a message that all youth can benefit from hearing.
I enjoyed this so much and recommend it for everyone.
July 25, 2023
Hey, guess what? You make it.
Before reading I Have Something to Tell You, I simply knew Chasten Buttigieg as Pete's husband--basically, a well-known stranger. Reading about his upbringing and childhood journey made me realize that he is far more than just being someone's partner. He is a complex, layered individual, who like many others, has a powerful story to share.
Oddly, I found that Chasten and I have many overlapping experiences. We are both gay, middle school teachers who took a year-long journey to Germany. Our upbringings were set in conservative areas that warranted masking and (safely) navigating our teen years. For this reason, this book landed for me. However, thinking of my middle school students, it is rather niche. Despite that, this book definitely deserves a place on my classroom shelf. Recommended for GR 7 and up.
Before reading I Have Something to Tell You, I simply knew Chasten Buttigieg as Pete's husband--basically, a well-known stranger. Reading about his upbringing and childhood journey made me realize that he is far more than just being someone's partner. He is a complex, layered individual, who like many others, has a powerful story to share.
Oddly, I found that Chasten and I have many overlapping experiences. We are both gay, middle school teachers who took a year-long journey to Germany. Our upbringings were set in conservative areas that warranted masking and (safely) navigating our teen years. For this reason, this book landed for me. However, thinking of my middle school students, it is rather niche. Despite that, this book definitely deserves a place on my classroom shelf. Recommended for GR 7 and up.
November 20, 2023
Good book! My favorite quotes from it:
"Being a Christian was expected. Being into girls and asking them on dates or to dances was the norm. If something was preapproved, then it was safe, even if it wasn't perfect. It was more important for me to protect myself than to live authentically."
"I had attempted to date a girl and failed. I had come out to a friend and succeeded. The former made me feel guilty and horrible, and the latter gave me hope that maybe there could be love in my future, something I had assumed from a young age was never going to happen."
I do think the book could go into more detail on how he's navigated being an openly gay man as a young adult/adult, and how he came to terms with being gay and Christian. Not sure if he discusses that in any more detail in the adult version of this book, so I may need to read that one as well.
"Being a Christian was expected. Being into girls and asking them on dates or to dances was the norm. If something was preapproved, then it was safe, even if it wasn't perfect. It was more important for me to protect myself than to live authentically."
"I had attempted to date a girl and failed. I had come out to a friend and succeeded. The former made me feel guilty and horrible, and the latter gave me hope that maybe there could be love in my future, something I had assumed from a young age was never going to happen."
I do think the book could go into more detail on how he's navigated being an openly gay man as a young adult/adult, and how he came to terms with being gay and Christian. Not sure if he discusses that in any more detail in the adult version of this book, so I may need to read that one as well.
July 23, 2023
i read this because i was curious about what would be different in the young adult version compared to the original version. basically it focused a lot more on his school years and told more stories from that time and a lot less (not at all) on the years in between graduating college and ending up unexpectedly having a life where millions of people know who you are. because that part was cut out the book was shorter. i was personally kind of bummed about that because in the first book i liked reading his stories from his life at the age that i am now, but i understand that this book had a different focus. it also had a lot of advice (? i think that’s the best word for it) which i’m sure teenage me would have appreciated had this existed at the time but was nice to read now.
March 12, 2024
This is the (adapted for young readers version) memoir of Chasten Buttigieg, who grew up in northern Michigan and was a closeted gay kid. He went on to marry Pete Buttegieg who ran for president as an openly gay candidate. By then Chasten had come into his own with his sexuality and he was able to speak in front to huge crowds about that and other topics. His memoir is primarily for queer students to see themselves on the page, to see a message of love, hope, and acceptance, to see that there is a bright future in store for them as well. While at times sad and painful to read about how Chasten had to hide who he was from everyone around him, it still carries humor, love, and hope. CW for homophobia
May 12, 2023
This young adult adaptation of Chasten Glezman Buttigieg’s memoir was such a sweet and wholesome coming of age story. Through his own words, we learn about Chasten’s teenage years growing up in a small conservative Midwestern town, his experience as an exchange student in Germany and his dawning realization that him always being seen as “special” and “unique” might have something to do with his sexual orientation and his struggle to come to terms with that.
Even though Chasten is the husband of the former Democratic presidential candidate (Peter Buttegieg) this book was not a political one, but a personal story meant to give courage and inspiration to teenagers today by sharing the good and the bad, the hardship, fear and pain, as well as the joy and the relief, on the journey of being true to yourself. And it certainly succeeded in that! I Have Something to Tell You was a truly hopeful and earnest story. I enjoyed the direct conversational writing style and how Chasten used a lot of his humor when telling it, and how he wasn’t afraid of showing his own shortcomings nor shy away from awkward situations. It was also really heartwarming to see the love for and from his family even though they all went through a bit of a rough path after he came out.
A minor thing though is that I, personally, would have liked to read more about how Chasten and his husband Peter met and fell in love, not just being told about it in such a matter-of-fact kind of way that felt different from the other parts of the story. It would have added a lot to the story if it had included more of their first meetings, letting us readers feel the attraction and butterflies, and seeing it evolve into their current HEA. I would also have liked to know more about Chasten’s experiences after coming out and learning to be comfortable as a gay man before meeting Peter. But I’m guessing that those parts were included in the full memoir for adults and had been edited away to keep this story shorter and more focused on the early ages. Which makes complete sense, and also makes me want to read the full memoir to find out!
All in all, this was a beautiful, raw and honest memoir focusing on Chasten Buttigieg’s early years, giving hope for teens struggling with the same questions, showing that they are not alone and that they deserve to be loved for exactly who they are. It’s also a wonderful resource to use for parents, teachers and others, to reflect on the way to support the LGBTQ+ community, to make this world a safe and inclusive place for everyone. I’m really glad that Chasten decided to share his experience in such a candid way, and I’m sure that this book will give courage and support to so many. Not only by the message in the book itself, but also by learning about Chasten and his husband’s groundbreaking presidential campaign and seeing in practice that there are no limits but that you can reach any goal you have while still being true to who you are.
4.5 stars rounding up to 5.
Thank you to Pride Book Tours and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC. I can’t wait for the upcoming book tour to talk about it more!
Even though Chasten is the husband of the former Democratic presidential candidate (Peter Buttegieg) this book was not a political one, but a personal story meant to give courage and inspiration to teenagers today by sharing the good and the bad, the hardship, fear and pain, as well as the joy and the relief, on the journey of being true to yourself. And it certainly succeeded in that! I Have Something to Tell You was a truly hopeful and earnest story. I enjoyed the direct conversational writing style and how Chasten used a lot of his humor when telling it, and how he wasn’t afraid of showing his own shortcomings nor shy away from awkward situations. It was also really heartwarming to see the love for and from his family even though they all went through a bit of a rough path after he came out.
A minor thing though is that I, personally, would have liked to read more about how Chasten and his husband Peter met and fell in love, not just being told about it in such a matter-of-fact kind of way that felt different from the other parts of the story. It would have added a lot to the story if it had included more of their first meetings, letting us readers feel the attraction and butterflies, and seeing it evolve into their current HEA. I would also have liked to know more about Chasten’s experiences after coming out and learning to be comfortable as a gay man before meeting Peter. But I’m guessing that those parts were included in the full memoir for adults and had been edited away to keep this story shorter and more focused on the early ages. Which makes complete sense, and also makes me want to read the full memoir to find out!
All in all, this was a beautiful, raw and honest memoir focusing on Chasten Buttigieg’s early years, giving hope for teens struggling with the same questions, showing that they are not alone and that they deserve to be loved for exactly who they are. It’s also a wonderful resource to use for parents, teachers and others, to reflect on the way to support the LGBTQ+ community, to make this world a safe and inclusive place for everyone. I’m really glad that Chasten decided to share his experience in such a candid way, and I’m sure that this book will give courage and support to so many. Not only by the message in the book itself, but also by learning about Chasten and his husband’s groundbreaking presidential campaign and seeing in practice that there are no limits but that you can reach any goal you have while still being true to who you are.
4.5 stars rounding up to 5.
Thank you to Pride Book Tours and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC. I can’t wait for the upcoming book tour to talk about it more!
November 8, 2023
This is the YA memoir of Chasten Buttigieg, who is married to former presidential candidate and current US Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg. I enjoyed reading about his childhood in rural Michigan, cringed at the brutality of othering high school students, and learned a lot about he navigated coming out. One of the anecdotes that stands out are the words from pastor at his wedding about love:
"Love lives in that space between the sublime and the ridiculous. Love lives in that space between poetry and prose.; between art and science; between the divide and the mundane. Love lives in theat space between claiming our high calling and doing the dishes."
"Love lives in that space between the sublime and the ridiculous. Love lives in that space between poetry and prose.; between art and science; between the divide and the mundane. Love lives in theat space between claiming our high calling and doing the dishes."
May 16, 2023
WOW! I loved this memoir. I am a hetrosexual woman but I found Chasten's memoir engaging and highly interesting to read about. How he felt different as a kid and how he is more of who he is now. He also gives great advice in this book for those YA who feel that they need guidance or help in the right direction to become who they are. I loved hearing about his story about politics and his husband and a little bit about their story too.
I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves memoirs and also someone looking for inspiration in becoming themselves no matter what;)
I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves memoirs and also someone looking for inspiration in becoming themselves no matter what;)
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