Dickens & Rumi
Cover of WHAT IF IT'S US

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WHAT IF IT'S US

Becky Albertalli and Adam Silvera

Arthur and Ben meet-cute at the post office, but what will become of them? (Ages 14 to 17)

Ages 15+Source checked

Why this age? Teen romance includes kissing, emotionally intense breakups, discussion of sex, and an on-page first sexual encounter. The themes and alternating teen perspectives suit mature mid-teens. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age15+

Strongest cautions

  • LGBTQIA characters5/5
  • Romance5/5
  • Sexual content & nudity3/5

Strongest positives

  • Courage & resilience3/5
  • Creativity & curiosity3/5
  • Diverse representation3/5

What’s in it?

Products & advertising2/5
Why this rating?

References to popular cultural products like Broadway musicals and coffee chains.

Strong language2/5
Why this rating?

Occasional mild profanity consistent with contemporary teen dialogue.

LGBTQIA characters5/5
Why this rating?

Features a central queer romance between two teenage boys.

Romance5/5
Why this rating?

Central theme involves dating, crushes, and romantic development between the two protagonists.

Frightening scenes1/5
Why this rating?

No frightening or supernatural content.

Sexual content & nudity3/5
Why this rating?

Contains depictions of physical intimacy, including sexual content described in a typical YA context.

Alcohol or drugs1/5
Why this rating?

Minimal or no drug/alcohol use portrayed as part of the teen experience.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience3/5
Why this rating?

Characters demonstrate the bravery required for emotional vulnerability.

Creativity & curiosity3/5
Why this rating?

Highlights creative expression through writing and appreciation of the arts.

Diverse representation3/5
Why this rating?

Includes representation of different ethnic backgrounds and LGBTQIA identities.

Educational value1/5
Why this rating?

Provides insight into diverse perspectives and the complexities of communication.

Kindness & empathy3/5
Why this rating?

Emphasizes empathy and support between friends and romantic partners.

Positive messages3/5
Why this rating?

Promotes themes of self-discovery, emotional honesty, and the value of human connection.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

Characters are relatable and grow through their experiences, though they make typical teen mistakes.

Family discussion

Talk about it

Conversation starters based on this title’s published content notes.

  1. What did courage look like in this story? Was being brave always the same as being fearless?
  2. How are identity and relationships presented, and how do they shape the characters’ experiences?
  3. Which choice in WHAT IF IT'S US would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in WHAT IF IT'S US, and what caused that change?
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Related by age fit, format, and catalogue context.

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Dark Lord of DerkholmDiana Wynne Jones · 1998Ages 14+The Secret AdversaryAgatha Christie · 1922Ages 13+A Forest DividedErin Hunter · 2015Ages 14+Drowned Ammet (Dalemark Quartet, Book 2)Diana Wynne Jones · 1977Ages 12+

These content notes are a starting point, not a guarantee. Review the evidence and use your own judgment before choosing a title.

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