12 must-read YA book releases to spring into this April
By Lacy Baugher
April 2021 release: Kate in Waiting – Becky Albertelli
The latest book from Becky Albertelli, author of Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda, follows the story of a pair of best friends who do everything together – even crush on the same guys. Kat Garfield and Anderson Walker are two theater kids from an Atlanta suburb who live for musicals and their mutual crushes on the boys at their summer theater camp. After all, what brings two besties closer than unrequited love?
But when the handsome Matt transfers to their school, the duo finds their friendship tested like never before. Not only do they not know if the newcomer likes boys or girls, but they’re also not sure how to navigate a summer crush who suddenly shows up in their real world. And though they try to set some ground rules to protect each other, things always have a tendency to get messy when romantic feelings are involved.
The official synopsis describes the story in more detail.
"Contrary to popular belief, best friends Kate Garfield and Anderson Walker are not codependent. Carpooling to and from theater rehearsals? Environmentally sound and efficient. Consulting each other on every single life decision? Basic good judgment. Pining for the same guys from afar? Shared crushes are more fun anyway. But when Kate and Andy’s latest long-distance crush shows up at their school, everything goes off script. Matt Olsson is talented and sweet, and Kate likes him. She really likes him. The only problem? So does Anderson. Turns out, communal crushes aren’t so fun when real feelings are involved. This one might even bring the curtains down on Kate and Anderson’s friendship."
Kate in Waiting is available on April 20.