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Cemetery Boys by Aiden Thomas: A Hauntingly Beautiful Exploration of Identity, Family, and the Afterlife

Donald Ward

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Aiden Thomas's debut novel, Cemetery Boys, is a groundbreaking and heartwarming story that explores themes of identity, family, and the afterlife through the eyes of Yadriel, a trans boy who becomes a brujo. With its rich world-building, complex characters, and important messages, Cemetery Boys is a must-read for anyone looking for a story that will stay with them long after they finish reading it.

Cemetery Boys

by Aiden Thomas

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4885 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Print length	:	350 pages

The Story

Yadriel is a trans boy who has always felt like an outsider in his family and community. When his cousin, Maritza, is murdered, Yadriel is determined to find her killer and bring her justice. But in order to do that, he must become a brujo, a powerful sorcerer who can communicate with the dead.

With the help of his best friend, Julian, Yadriel sets out on a dangerous journey to find Maritza's killer. Along the way, he must confront his own prejudices and fears, and learn to accept himself for who he is.

The Characters

Yadriel is a complex and relatable protagonist. He is a strong and determined boy who is not afraid to stand up for what he believes in. But he is also struggling with his own identity and his place in the world.

Julian is Yadriel's best friend and confidante. He is a loyal and supportive friend who always has Yadriel's back. He is also a talented artist who helps Yadriel to express himself.

Maritza is Yadriel's cousin who is murdered at the beginning of the novel. She is a kind and loving girl who was always there for Yadriel. Her death is a major catalyst for Yadriel's journey of self-discovery.

The Themes

Cemetery Boys explores a number of important themes, including identity, family, and the afterlife. Yadriel's journey of self-discovery is a powerful reminder that everyone deserves to be accepted for who they are, regardless of their gender, race, or sexual orientation.

The novel also explores the complex relationships between family members. Yadriel's relationship with his family is strained, but he eventually learns to accept them for who they are. The novel also shows that family can be found in unexpected places.

Finally, Cemetery Boys explores the afterlife and the possibility of reincarnation. Yadriel's journey to find Maritza's killer leads him to a deeper understanding of death and the afterlife. The novel suggests that there is more to life than what we can see, and that death is not the end.

The Writing

Aiden Thomas's writing is lyrical and evocative. He has a gift for creating vivid imagery and capturing the emotions of his characters. The novel is also full of humor and heart. Thomas's writing style is sure to leave a lasting impression on readers.

The Impact

Cemetery Boys has been praised by critics and readers alike. The novel has been nominated for several awards, including the National Book Award for Young People's Literature. It has also been featured on several "best of" lists, including the American Library Association's Rainbow List and the New York Public Library's Best Books for Teens.

Cemetery Boys is a groundbreaking and important novel that is sure to stay with readers long after they finish reading it. The novel's themes of identity, family, and the afterlife are explored with sensitivity and compassion. Thomas's writing is lyrical and evocative, and his characters are complex and relatable. Cemetery Boys is a must-read for anyone looking for a story that will challenge their assumptions and open their hearts.

### Image Alt Attributes

* **Yadriel, a trans boy, stands in a graveyard with a skull in his hand.** * **Yadriel and Julian are sitting on a bench in a park, talking and laughing.** * **Maritza, a young girl, is smiling and laughing.** * **A group of brujos are performing a ritual in a graveyard.** * **Yadriel is standing in front of a mirror, looking at his reflection.** * **Yadriel and Julian are standing on a hilltop, looking out at the stars.**

Cemetery Boys

by Aiden Thomas

4.7 out of 5