Pride 2023: A Q+ celebration
June 4
Simon vs the Homo Sapiens Agenda by Becky Albertalli
Simon Vs The Homo Sapiens Agenda by Becky Albertalli is a heartfelt, light, and moving YA novel that revolves around the life of 16-year-old student Simon Spier.
Simon is gay and has yet to come out to his family and friends, but has found – through an anonymous email exchange with another gay student at his school that goes by the name Blue – a place where he can be himself without being judged.
However, everything becomes complicated for Simon when one of his classmates, Martin, accidentally discovers the email exchanges and threatens to expose his secret unless he helps him win over a girl named Abby.
Caught in a web of lies and the fear of being outed, Simon must navigate through his plight as he tries to uncover Blue’s true identity. Along the way, he learns important lessons about friendship, love, and acceptance, both for himself and others.
With the support of his family and friends, Simon finds the courage to embrace his true self and live authentically.
Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda is a heartwarming coming-of-age story that explores the challenges of adolescence, identity, and the power of being true to oneself, all wrapped up in a delightful blend of humor, romance, and self-discovery.
Love, Simon
Love, Simon is the 2018 film adaptation of Becky Albertalli’s Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda. As in the book, the film tells the story of Simon Spier, a teenager who has a big secret: he’s gay.
As he navigates the complexities of high school and life as a teenager, Simon finds solace in an anonymous online correspondence with another gay student, who goes by the name Blue.
Caught between the exhilaration of falling in love for the first time and the fear of being exposed, Simon must balance his relationships, friendships, and the search for his true self so as not to hurt the people he loves.
Mixing humor, tenderness, and genuine emotion, Love, Simon beautifully captures the universal experience of discovering who you are. It takes viewers on an emotional journey, highlighting the importance of authenticity and the power of love and understanding.
With relatable characters, heartfelt performances, and a story that resonates with audiences of all backgrounds, Love, Simon is a celebration of self-discovery and an uplifting reminder that love knows no bounds.
Where to watch? Hulu, Star+, Disney+ (depends on the region)
Love, Victor
Love, Victor is a TV show that serves as a spin-off and spiritual successor to the film Love, Simon. The series follows Victor Salazar, a new student at Creekwood High School, as he navigates the challenges of coming to terms with his sexual orientation.
Inspired by Simon’s story, Victor seeks guidance through anonymous email exchanges with Simon himself, who provides him with support and advice.
As Victor explores his own identity, he faces numerous obstacles and conflicts, both internal and external. He grapples with his conservative family’s expectations, the complexities of forming new friendships, and the ups and downs of first love. Along the way, Victor learns valuable lessons about acceptance, courage, and the power of being true to oneself.
Love, Victor is a candid and authentic portrayal of the LGBTQ+ experience, tackling themes of love, friendship, and personal growth. With relatable characters, compelling storytelling (at least in its first season 🫣), and a good exploration of relevant social issues, Love, Victor offers a fresh perspective on what it’s like to be young, queer, and Latino.
Where to watch? Hulu, Star+, Disney+ (depends on the region).
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