Proud of Me is one of those wonderfully progressive middle grade books that introduces lots of important themes in a gentle way. There are so many aspects to this story, Becky and Josh both dealing with the complexities of everyday life and both facing their own individual dilemmas. Perhaps most interestingly, as its not something I've ever encountered in a middle grade book, was the exploration of how it might feel to have an unknown donor parent.

There is plenty of exploration of issues that face the LGBTQ+ community here, and it's truly a wonderful introduction to younger readers that love is love and society should be inclusive to all. Becky and Josh have two mums, and I liked that the book didn't put rose tinted glasses on their relationship, showing that there are still plenty of narrow minded opinions in society and that not everyone will be as accepting as they should be. Becky's own exploration of her own sexuality was also handled very well, although my heart did ache for her as first love can indeed be so cruel.

Josh's journey was what really stood out to me though. As someone who has gone through fertility treatment myself, it always irritates me how people will toss suggestions around of donation etc as if it's really straightforward and simple. I can definitely think of more than a few adults who could do with reading this book, as just a basic introduction to some of the complexities that can arise. Unfortunately our biology is something that we're seemingly drawn to need to know about, and I could totally understand Josh's desperation.

Friendship, religion, internet safety and the importance of communication, there is just so much more to this book than the journey the two siblings go on to discover themselves. I thought it was a lovely read, although I did want to wrap both of them into a big warm hug throughout. I'd will definitely be recommending this one.

Wow, what a ground breaking middle grade novel. I really enjoyed Sarah Hagger-Holt’s “Nothing Ever Happens Here” and I was excited to read this.

A family comprising of two mums and two donor-conceived kids who are now at an age when they are also questioning their feelings and their families. Each chapter is written alternatively form the viewpoints of Becky and Josh who at aged 13 and nearly-twins who used to share everything, suddenly find the need to keep secrets form each other and their mums. ‘

So many themes are covered in the story which centres around the new Pride Group that is formed at school which is a safe LGBTQ+ place but those in the group are not exclusively LGBTQ+ which addresses the inclusive-ness of Pride. A very supportive teacher, Ms Bryant, oversees the group and stands up to narrow minded parent. Everyone needs a Ms Bryant at school.

As Josh tries to find out who he was donor-conceived from, and Becky discovers new feelings, the story unfolds to cover many elements including friendship, religion, LGBTQ+, internet safety, coming out, donor-conceived, love, family, negative views and honesty.

A wonderfully written book!

Wow!

As a fan of Sarah Hagger-Holt's previous book (Nothing Ever Happens Here) I knew I wanted to read Proud of Me as soon as possible. Thanks to Netgalley for allowing me to read an e-arc for review.

I don't know where to start! So many positive things to say about this story and the characters within it.

The story is based around a family with two mums and two kids that were conceived using a sperm donor. The plot revolves around secrets, Josh and Becky having one each and then a family 'secret' ... although the family secret isn't exactly a 'secret', more something that just isn't talked about.

The book moves between Becky and Josh's points of view chapter by chapter, which works so well to show how their lives fit together, it reflects on their similarities and differences, the things they share and the things they don't.

Many elements are addressed in the story, from LGBTQ+ rights, religion, friendships, coming out, relationships, being donor-conceived, internet safety, opposition, and hateful views. But, they are all done so, so well!

Through the ups and downs it all comes together to leave you with a full-heart and a lovely rounded ending (my biggest peeve is a poorly finished or rushed ending).

I look forward to purchasing this book for my school library and recommending it to the students, as I have with 'Nothing Ever Happens Here'.

I hope Sarah Hagger-Holt continues to write more books like these for young people!

Proud of Me is a beautifully written contemporary story about discovering yourself. Becky is struggling to understand her identity when she develops feelings for a girl at school, Josh is struggling to understand where he came from and who his donor father is. Both stories are heartbreaking and heartwarming, set against the backdrop of family, love and pride.