Cemetery Boys is a young adult urban fantasy novel by Aiden Thomas, published on September 1, 2020. The story follows Yadriel, a transgender boy from a traditional Latinx family who struggles for acceptance. To prove his identity as a brujo (a male witch), he attempts to summon the ghost of his murdered cousin but accidentally calls forth Julian Diaz, a rebellious classmate who is not ready to move on from life. Together, they embark on a journey to uncover the truth behind Julian’s death and Yadriel’s missing cousin while navigating themes of identity, acceptance, and love.

Plot Overview

• Main Character: Yadriel, a queer and trans Latino boy.
• Conflict: Yadriel’s family does not accept his gender identity, leading him to perform a ritual to summon a ghost and prove himself.
• Ghost Encounter: Instead of summoning his cousin, he brings back Julian, who has unresolved issues from his life.
• Themes: The novel explores LGBTQ+ acceptance, cultural identity, and the complexities of familial relationships within the Latinx community.

Reception and Impact

Cemetery Boys has received critical acclaim and multiple accolades:

• Bestseller Status: It became a New York Times bestseller and was recognized as the first book by an openly transgender author featuring a transgender character on that list
• Awards: The book was longlisted for the National Book Award and won the 2021 Pacific Northwest Book Award
• Cultural Significance: It has been praised for its representation of queer Latinx identities and its handling of sensitive topics like transphobia within cultural contexts

Critical Acclaim

The novel has been highlighted for its engaging storytelling and emotional depth:

• Reviews: Critics have noted its balance of romance and mystery, along with its rich portrayal of Latinx culture
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• Community Representation: It showcases various Latinx identities and emphasizes the importance of community support for LGBTQ+ individuals
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Cemetery Boys is not only a captivating tale but also serves as a vital piece of literature for young readers seeking representation in stories about identity and belonging.