This book has caught everyone’s attention (as Levithan’s books often do). The story centers around an attempt to break the Guinness Book of World Records longest kiss (over 32 hours) by ex-boyfriends Craig and Harry in protest of a hate crime. Add to that the love story of Ryan and transgendered Avery, Peter and Neil (a new couple ready to take the next step) and Cooper, a runaway obsessed with gay hook-up apps and the story is full of interesting and well rounded characters. To add to the complexity of the story it is narrated by a chorus of “shadow uncles” (gay men of the AIDS generation) offering up opinions and advice. It is a very unique read and one that is sure to have plenty of fans.
I liked the idea behind the story, and enjoyed a lot of the characters. I really liked that Harry and Craig have broken up and are doing this as friends. I had no idea that a kiss that long would be so harrowing (they are not allowed to sit, use the restroom or be aided by anyone else). But the greek chorus did become a bit preachy. And Levithan (it is read by the author) has a way of reading it that makes it seems as though every sentence is the most important thing in the world! I might have enjoyed a lighter reading more...but then it isn't light material really.