The Sunflower Boys follows narrator Artem, a 12-year-old boy from Chernihiv, Ukraine. In the early part of the book, Artem wrestles with his feelings for his friend and classmate, Viktor, and how his family would respond if they ever found out. Artem’s world is torn apart when Russia invades Ukraine, and he and his younger brother, Yuri, undertake a harrowing journey in search of safety.
While this book was extremely sad, I couldn’t put it down until I found out what happened to Artem and his loved ones in the end. Wachman delicately weaves together a coming-of-age story about trauma, the horrors of war, queer desire, family, and love for one’s home. I would highly recommend The Sunflower Boys. Wachman doesn’t shy away from graphic descriptions, but if you are willing to take on the heavy subject matter, the story is absolutely worth it.
Place a hold on The Sunflower Boys today!