The Lesbiana’s Guide to Catholic School

The Lesbiana's Guide to Catholic School by Sonora Reyes is a fire debut novel about Yami, a queer Mexican American girl, trying to fit in at a mostly white Catholic school while staying true to herself. 

Raegan’s book review of The Lesbiana’s Guide to Catholic School

The Lesbiana’s Guide to Catholic School by Sonora Reyes is a fire debut novel about Yami, a queer Mexican American girl, trying to fit in at a mostly white Catholic school while staying true to herself. 

It’s all about finding the courage to be who you are, even when the world doesn’t always get you. 

Yami’s journey of self-discovery is super relatable, and her friendship-turned-romance with Bo is just the gay chaos we all need! 

If you want a book that’s all about love, identity, and being brave, this one’s a must-read!

“I don’t owe anyone the truth, and I’ll take my damn time with talking about it. Looking at her, I realize I’m not surviving anymore. I’m dancing, and laughing, and living. I feel like I’m always the elephant in the room no one wants to talk about.”

The Lesbiana’s Guide to Catholic School

Discussion Questions

☆ “The Lesbiana’s Guide to Catholic School” addresses the topic of coming out and the fear of rejection. How do the characters in the book handle the challenges of coming out and expressing their true selves? Discuss the various characters’ experiences and how they differ.

☆ Raegan mentions loving the “gay chaos” between Yami and Bo. How does their relationship contribute to the overall narrative? Discuss the importance of LGBTQ+ representation in literature and media, particularly for young adult readers.

☆ “The Lesbiana’s Guide to Catholic School” explores themes of acceptance and embracing one’s true self. How do these themes manifest in the characters’ experiences and interactions? Discuss moments in the book where characters show acceptance and support for one another.

☆ The society in the book sometimes makes it difficult for characters like Yami to fit in. How do societal expectations and prejudices impact the characters’ experiences and decisions? Are there any parallels to real-life challenges faced by individuals who identify as LGBTQ+?

☆ The book emphasizes the significance of friendship and relationships in one’s journey of self-discovery. How do Yami’s friendships with characters like Bo and her brother impact her growth and understanding of herself?

☆ Yami’s relationship with her brother plays a significant role in the book. How does their sibling dynamic shape Yami’s choices and actions? Explore the themes of family and responsibility in the novel.

☆ The book addresses the theme of being true to oneself while facing societal expectations and pressures. How does Yami grapple with the idea of hiding her true self to avoid potential consequences? Discuss the internal conflict she experiences throughout the story.

☆ The title suggests a guide for Yami to navigate Catholic school as a lesbian. How does the concept of guidance and self-discovery play out in the novel? Discuss Yami’s personal growth and the lessons she learns throughout the story.

☆ Yami tries to live by the question, “WWSGD: What would a straight girl do?” How does this question reflect the pressure to conform to societal norms? How does Yami’s perspective on this question evolve throughout the book?

☆ The novel ends with Yami learning important lessons about herself and her relationships. Did the resolution of the story leave you with a sense of hope and fulfillment?

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