Looking for Group

Dylan doesn't have much going for him - he's dealing with cancer treatments and feels disconnected from his family. His main escape is playing an online role-playing game where he can be someone else entirely. Through the game, Dylan meets Arden, another teen player who suggests they meet up in real life. The two embark on an impromptu road trip across the country, each carrying their own secrets and struggles. As Dylan and Arden travel together, they navigate friendship, identity, and what it means to truly know someone both online and offline. Their journey forces them to confront realities they've been trying to avoid. The novel explores themes of self-discovery, connection in the digital age, and how people choose to present themselves to the world. It raises questions about authenticity and the different versions of ourselves we show to others.

Readers note authentic LGBTQ+ representation and gaming culture references that feel natural rather than forced. Many appreciate the balance between serious themes and lighter moments. Readers liked: - Realistic portrayal of chronic illness and medical experiences - Development of the central romance - Accurate depiction of MMORPGs and online friendships - Strong character voices and dialogue Common criticisms: - Pacing issues in the second half - Some plot threads left unresolved - Parents/adults written as one-dimensional - Gaming terminology can be confusing for non-gamers Ratings: Goodreads: 3.8/5 (1,200+ ratings) Amazon: 4.2/5 (50+ ratings) Several reviewers mentioned the book helped them process their own experiences with illness or coming out. One reader noted: "Finally a YA book that gets gaming culture right without stereotypes." Multiple reviews criticized the rushed ending and wished for more closure with secondary characters.

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🎮 The book explores the world of MMORPGs (Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games) and features World of Warcraft as a significant part of the story, reflecting the author's own gaming experience. 🌈 Looking for Group is one of the few YA novels featuring a transgender main character where the story focuses on his gaming life and romance rather than primarily on his transition. 🎯 The title "Looking for Group" refers to a common MMO gaming term (LFG) used when players are seeking others to join them for in-game activities. 🏥 The protagonist's cancer treatment and medical experiences were informed by the author's personal battle with chronic illness. 💕 The book combines multiple genres - gaming culture, road trip narrative, romance, and coming-of-age story - while breaking away from traditional LGBTQ+ YA tropes.