Mason Deaver

Mason Deaver is an American author of young adult fiction, known particularly for writing stories featuring non-binary and transgender characters. Their debut novel "I Wish You All the Best" (2019) received significant attention for its portrayal of a non-binary teen protagonist. Deaver, who identifies as non-binary and uses they/them pronouns, has become a notable voice in LGBTQ+ young adult literature. Their work frequently explores themes of gender identity, family relationships, and coming-of-age experiences. Their second novel, "The Ghosts We Keep" (2021), continued to address themes of identity while focusing on grief and loss. Deaver's writing style has been recognized for its emotional depth and authentic representation of queer experiences. Deaver has been vocal about the importance of diverse representation in young adult literature and regularly engages in discussions about LGBTQ+ issues in publishing. Their work has been featured in various literary publications and has been translated into multiple languages.

Readers connect strongly with Deaver's authentic portrayal of non-binary and LGBTQ+ teen experiences. Reviews highlight the relatable emotional struggles and realistic family dynamics. What readers liked: - Natural, honest depiction of coming out and gender identity - Complex family relationships - Mental health representation - Clear, accessible writing style for teen readers What readers disliked: - Some found the pacing slow, particularly in "I Wish You All the Best" - Character development described as uneven - Romance plotlines called predictable by several reviewers Ratings across platforms: - "I Wish You All the Best": 4.2/5 on Goodreads (50,000+ ratings), 4.6/5 on Amazon - "The Ghosts We Keep": 3.9/5 on Goodreads (3,000+ ratings), 4.4/5 on Amazon Common reader feedback notes the books fill an important gap in YA literature by centering non-binary protagonists. Multiple reviewers mention crying while reading, with one calling "I Wish You All the Best" "the book I needed as a teen."

I Wish You All the Best (2019) When Ben comes out as non-binary to their parents and is thrown out of their home, they move in with their sister and navigate life, anxiety, and a growing relationship with a classmate named Nathan.

The Ghosts We Keep (2021) After Liam's twin brother dies in a car accident, they struggle with grief while examining their complicated relationship with their sibling and discovering unexpected connections with their brother's best friend.

Tell Me How to Be (2023) Three teens experience a challenging summer as they explore their identities, relationships, and personal growth while working at a museum's pride exhibit.

Before We Disappear (2023) In 1909 Seattle, two rival magicians' assistants - one an orphaned thief and the other escaping an abusive mentor - form an unexpected alliance while competing at the Alaska-Yukon-Pacific Exposition.

Alice Oseman writes young adult fiction focused on LGBTQ+ characters navigating identity and relationships. Her works feature non-binary and asexual representation similar to Deaver's approach to gender identity themes.

Becky Albertalli creates contemporary YA stories about queer teens coming out and finding acceptance. Her characters deal with similar internal struggles and self-discovery journeys as those in Deaver's books.

Adam Silvera writes emotional contemporary YA focusing on LGBTQ+ characters and mental health topics. His works explore themes of identity and self-acceptance that parallel Deaver's storytelling.

Ashley Herring Blake produces YA fiction centered on queer characters discovering themselves. Her writing addresses similar topics of gender identity and coming out experiences that Deaver tackles.

Kacen Callender creates stories featuring trans and non-binary protagonists in contemporary settings. Their work contains comparable themes of gender exploration and self-discovery that readers of Deaver will recognize.