Not So Pure and Simple

Hysterical. I couldnt put it down. (Nic Stone) I laughed, I gasped, I church grunted through every chapter. (Tiffany D. Jackson) Heartfelt and hilarious on every page! (Justin A. Reynolds)

4 starred reviews! * An Indie Next List Pick! * Named one of Bank Street College of Education's Best Childrens Books of the Year!

Two-time Edgar Award finalist Lamar Giles spotlights the consequences of societal pressure, confronts toxic masculinity, and explores the complexity of what it means to be a real man.

Del has had a crush on Kiera Westing since kindergarten. And now, during their junior year, shes finally available. So when Kiera volunteers for an opportunity at their church, Dels right behind her. Though he quickly realizes hes inadvertently signed up for a Purity Pledge.

His dad thinks his wires are crossed, and his best friend, Qwan, doesnt believe any girl is worth the long game. But Dels not about to lose his dream girl, and thats where fellow pledger Jameer comes in. He can put in the good word. In exchange, Del just has to get answers to the Pledgers questionsabout sex ed.

With other boys circling Kiera like sharks, Del needs to make his move fast. But as he plots and plans, he neglects to ask the most important question: What does Kiera want? He cant think about that too much, though, because once he gets the girl, itll all sort itself out. Right?

With true-to-life characters and a straightforward handling of sex, including often ignored aspects of male sexuality, Giless thoughtful, hilarious read offers a timely viewpoint on religion, toxic masculinity, and teen sexuality. (Publishers Weekly, An Anti-Racist Children's and YA Reading List)