Lover Birds, by Leanne Egan - Ysias
I first picked up Lover Birds because of its vibrant cover, which shows a character that reminded me of the girl with brightly coloured hair I wished to be when I was in school. The book did not disappoint and delivered a multifaceted story that I loved from the start.
Lover Birds incorporates many beloved tropes—enemies to lovers, rivalry, and a slow-burn romance—without ever feeling cliché. It's more than just a love story; it's a coming-of-age story. We follow Lou and her tight-knit friend group at the start of sixth form, a moment of significant change. The book introduces us to these characters and delves into their strong friendships, portraying the intricacies of being a teenager, especially a queer teenager, navigating their identity.
I particularly enjoyed the portrayal of neurodivergence through Lou and other characters. The story offers a thoughtful exploration of being newly diagnosed, highlighting the internal struggles young people face when dealing with a diagnosis, the world of medication, and mental health issues. As we follow Lou and her inner thoughts, we’re provided with a deep and relatable understanding of her experiences.
Another important theme in the novel is the social class divide and the North-South divide in the UK, which is portrayed with nuance and depth. These themes add layers to the story, making it more than just a romance.
As for the love story, I do not want to spoil you, but it feels real and relatable to what first love is for a young queer girl. The characters feel whole, and they all have their own individual personalities. They are diverse and loveable, and as a reader you get invested in their subplots and stories.
As a fan of contemporary queer literature and Jane Austen, I found Lover Birds to be an uplifting modern retelling of Pride and Prejudice. It tackles complex and relevant topics that resonate with today's youth (and those who are young at heart). This book has earned a spot among my favourites, and I will eagerly recommend it to my pupils. I am definitely adding Leanne Egan to my list of authors to follow.
Ysias
