From the Publisher
"An elf-ing good time." — Kirkus Reviews (starred review)
"Via a breezy yet thoughtful approach, and with the boys’ gently blossoming romance inciting warmth and cheer, Valdes (Brighter Than the Moon) conceives a holly-jolly rom-com filled with enough humor, heart, and holiday spirit to deliver an upbeat stocking stuffer." — Publishers Weekly
Praise for Spin Me Right Round: "An absolute blast. I loved it, and I couldn't put it down." — Bill Konigsberg, award-winning author of The Music of What Happens
“This engaging read is full of honesty, vulnerability, and truly funny moments. . . . An immersive story offering a unique look at second chances, acceptance, and progress.” — School Library Journal
“The solid pacing and pleasant, fluid prose make this a page-turner. . . . A great read offering entertainment, encouragement, and plenty to reflect upon.” — Kirkus Reviews
“Prepare to laugh out loud as Cuban American high-school senior Luis takes a trip into the past that rivals Back to the Future. . . Readers will fall for Luis and Chaz, and—bonus!—Luis' clumsy, misunderstood roommate, Ernie. The ripple effects of their brave choices change everyone's future for the better. ” — Booklist
Kirkus Reviews
★ 2023-08-26
Sparks fly alongside holiday cheer at a seasonal mall gig.
Winter break marks 18-year-old Cam Ceballos’ first trip home to Massachusetts’ Pioneer Valley since leaving for NYU. Single, gay, and desperate for a little extra “fa-la-la,” the experimental-theater major takes on his newest role: Oopsy the Elf at Santaland. Management’s reality show–esque Elfmas competition pits the employees against each other for Top Elf recognition and $5,000. Cam’s biggest rival is Marco (aka Jingle the Elf), whose jolliness—and puppy-dog cuteness—is unparalleled. Then there’s Cam’s ex, Leroy, a beautiful, confusing distraction. Dating prospects aside, Cam has another dilemma: He’s failing his theater classes (and risking his scholarship). Worse, he hasn’t found a way to tell his dad yet—or decide if he’s even going back to NYU at all. While this romp has many delightful queer holiday rom-com tropes, its winning resolution balances a nostalgic homecoming with the promise of self-actualization. Though the narrative is fittingly “Cameron-focused,” it also makes some keen observations about how people aren’t always what they seem. Cam is Cuban American, and Marco is Filipino. The supporting cast features a few Black characters and someone who uses they/them pronouns. Cam’s cishet dad is a single parent through surrogacy, a rare and welcome depiction.
An elf-ing good time. (Romance. 13-adult)
