Jack of Hearts (and Other Parts)

Being gay and out, given to wearing eye makeup, and having a pretty active sex life—although not nearly as active as the rumor mill insinuates—means that Jack is already pretty well-known at his New York high school. But when he starts writing a personal, detailed, and sex-positive advice column for his friend Jenna’s blog, his public profile rises, and attention from his secret admirer turns increasingly controlling and threatening. The principal refuses to take action, blaming the situation on Jack’s being provocative, so Jack, Jenna, and their friend Ben decide to find the stalker themselves. The forced stalker plot and its outcome disappoint, but Rosen (The Memory Wall) creates memorable protagonists and brings a fresh, frank voice to his YA debut. The ethnically diverse, authentic characters model multiple approaches to being gay and being sexually active (or not), and though the affluent private-school milieu seems a little made for TV, Jack’s efforts as a high school Dan Savage feel genuinely helpful and important. Ages 14–up. Agent: Joy Tutela, David Black Literary. (Oct.)