30 books that you can totally judge by their covers

Leah on the Offbeat – Becky Albertalli

Becky Albertalli’s Leah on the Offbeat was on many readers’ “most ancitipated” list for 2018. The story follows Simon’s best friend, Leah, from Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda. And not only is Leah a bisexual protagonist, but she offers positive and unapologetic representation for women who are considered overweight.

In Leah on the Offbeat, Leah is still taking on the world with the drumming career she began in Albertalli’s previous novel. Unfortunately, her confidence on stage doesn’t always transfer to her social life. She’s less privileged than her friends, and she hasn’t found the courage to tell them about her sexuality — not even after Simon’s coming out story.

When Leah’s friend group begins to fracture during senior year, things only become worse. She’s forced to cope with her feelings, especially when unexpected ones begin cropping up for one of her closest friends.

Leah’s story is an important one, particularly given that she is so relatable to the average teenager. And to have Leah, a girl who doesn’t quite fit the societal ideal of “perfection,” on the cover of a book is a big step in the right direction — especially when the book is aimed at teenagers coming to terms with their identities.