"I was a punk. He did ballet..." 🎵
What more can I say?Obviously inspired by some great emo anthems (even the chapter names play off song titles), this debut book about a closeted bad boy who falls for a ballet dancer is the story I didn't know I needed. 
Wes has a reputation. And for good reason. He and his squad steal lunches, tag the skatepark, ditch school... basically, Wes has given up on the world because he was labeled a screwup years ago when he and his mom first moved to town. 
But then Wes attends a local production of The Nutcracker, and he ends up crushing hard for the lead dancer, Tristan. Cue adorable grumpy/sunshine trope. 
But this story is so much deeper than its tropes. Wes struggles with real anger issues and has to come to terms with his past and take ownership of his choices before he can feel worthy of a happily ever after. He messes up. Alot. 
Wes, despite his mistakes and his anger, is a relatable and realistic teen who you root for every step of the way.
The audio book was expertly narrated by Michael Crouch, who brings a youthful and touching tone to the characters. I almost never listen to audios at their natural speed, but Crouch's pacing was rhythmic. 

I received this audioARC from @netgalley and publisher RB Media in exchange for an honest review.

Skater Boy will be released February 6, 2024.