Cemetery Boys

 

Hero image by Mars Lauderbaugh.

cemetery-boys.jpg
 

New York Times Bestseller

A trans boy determined to prove his gender to his traditional Latinx family summons a ghost who refuses to leave.

Yadriel has summoned a ghost, and now he can't get rid of him.

When his traditional Latinx family has problems accepting his true gender, Yadriel becomes determined to prove himself a real brujo. With the help of his cousin and best friend Maritza, he performs the ritual himself, and then sets out to find the ghost of his murdered cousin and set it free.

However, the ghost he summons is actually Julian Diaz, the school's resident bad boy, and Julian is not about to go quietly into death. He's determined to find out what happened and tie off some loose ends before he leaves. Left with no choice, Yadriel agrees to help Julian, so that they can both get what they want. But the longer Yadriel spends with Julian, the less he wants to let him leave.

 

 

graveyard goods

Merch inspired by Cemetery Boys available now!

 

Buzz for Cemetery Boys

 

Publishers Weekly, starred review ★

 

“Thomas marries concept and execution in a romantic mystery as poignant as it is spellbinding, weaved in a mosaic of culture, acceptance, and identity, where intricately crafted characters are the pieces, and love — platonic, romantic, familial, and communal — is the glue.”

 

Booklist,
Starred Review ★

 

“Aiden Thomas' debut novel can't help but charm and captivate readers of all ages, though teen readers will invariably identify with and appreciate the highjinks and emotional vulnerability that make each character and scenario deliciously enchanting.”

 

Kirkus

 

“Both the romance and mystery burn slow and hot until the climax. Stakes begin high, and the intensity only increases with a looming deadline and a constant risk that Julian might lose himself, turning maligno. The cast of characters represents a diversity of Latinx identities sharing a community in East Los Angeles. Julian is Colombian while Yadriel is Cuban and Mexican. Their romance provides joyful, ground-breaking representation for gay, transgender boys.“