10 must-read YA releases that will reignite your reading life this March

We Are Totally Normal by Rahul Kanakia

Rahul Kanakia’s We Are Totally Normal arrives this month, and it’s a coming-of-age story that will appeal to readers looking for a narrative rooted in sexuality and identity. The story opens with Nandan entering his junior year of high school, a year that’s going to be a perfect addition to his high school career — at least, if everything goes according to his plans.

Of course, Nandan’s expectations quickly get tossed out the window after he winds up hooking up with his best friend, Dave. Nandan’s never thought of himself as being attracted to other guys, but he’s willing to give a relationship with Dave a try. Unfortunately, his best friend handles the new development a bit better than he does. According to the book’s description:

"“And the more his anxiety grows about what his sexuality means for himself, his friends, and his social life, the more he wonders whether he can just take it all back. But is breaking up with the only person who’s ever really gotten him worth feeling ‘normal’ again?”"

It sounds as though Nandan will need to make some difficult decisions as the story continues, and that could make We Are Totally Normal an emotional ride for readers as well. But even if Nandan’s relationship with Dave doesn’t end happily (and who knows, perhaps it will), this book feels like an important narrative for anyone who has ever struggled with their sexuality. It hits shelves on March 31 and will be available in print, ebook, and audiobook formats.