Publisher: Simon and Schuster Canada, June 8, 2021

Format: paperback 

Pages: 224

Rating: 5/5 stars

Synopsis (from Goodreads):

The first time someone called John Paul (JP) Brammer “Papi” was on the popular gay hookup app Grindr. At first, it was flattering; JP took this as white-guy speak for “hey, handsome.” Who doesn’t want to be called handsome? But then it happened again and again…and again, leaving JP wondering: Who the hell is Papi?

What started as a racialized moniker given to him on a hookup app soon became the inspiration for his now wildly popular advice column “¡Hola Papi!,” launching his career as the Cheryl Strayed for young queer people everywhere—and some straight people too. JP had his doubts at first—what advice could he really offer while he himself stumbled through his early 20s? Sometimes the best advice to dole outcomes from looking within, which is what JP has done in his column and book—and readers have flocked to him for honest, heartfelt wisdom, and of course, a few laughs.

In ¡Hola Papi!, JP shares his story of growing up biracial and in the closet in America’s heartland, while attempting to answer some of life’s toughest questions: How do I let go of the past? How do I become the person I want to be? Is there such a thing as being too gay? Should I hook up with my grade school bully now that he’s out of the closet? Questions we’ve all asked ourselves, surely.

With wit and wisdom in equal measure, ¡Hola Papi! is for anyone—gay, straight, and everything in between—who has ever taken stock of their unique place in the world, offering considered advice, intelligent discourse, and fits of laughter along the way. “Readers are likely to become addicted to these stories; they’re that good…Brammer comes to know himself very well, and readers will be delighted to make his acquaintance, too,” says Booklist in a starred review. 

My Review:

Thank you Simon and Schuster Canada for the copy of this book.
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Read if you like: funny but reflective essays.
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Essays that are written in the style of advice columns, this book is based off of the column that Brammer used to write called “Hola Papi.” In these essays, Brammer explores his personal experiences in middle school, coming out as gay, unhealthy relationships, as well as his exploration of his own identity.
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This book made me laugh and cry, which is honestly what I want to get out of reading essays!
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CW: homophobia, racism, bullying, sexual harassment and assault.