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Dylan was terminally ill with cancer, then miraculously went into remission. During years spent indoors and in hospitals, Dylan’s life largely revolved around playing World of Warcraft, where he met and befriended a gamer named Arden, who was born David but now lives as a girl. Sixteen years old and facing a future he never expected to have, Dylan shows up at Arden’s house unannounced. Arden is happy to see Dylan, who’s gay, and the two embark on a road trip, finding more than a few hurdles while en route to California. Dylan narrates in a clipped, introspective voice as he and Arden swap stories, get their car stolen, and sell Dylan’s leftover cancer drugs in order to keep the road trip going. Debut author Harrison takes on several substantial topics, including the aftermath of disease, prescription pill abuse, gender identity, and sexuality. The characters’ conflicts gracefully counterbalance their growing intimacy as they move toward a destination that is less significant than the journey itself. Ages 13–up. Agent: Jim McCarthy, Dystel, Goderich & Bourret. (Apr.)