I Have Something to Tell You—For Young Adults: A Memoir

Gr 6 Up–In this YA adaptation of advocate and teacher Buttigieg’s memoir, he recounts growing up in rural, conservative northern Michigan where he was simply different. From a quick stint on the basketball team to studying abroad in Germany, he relays stories of how he grew confident in himself and came out as gay, sprinkling tips for navigating the cruel world of adolescents along the way. Buttigieg, husband of former presidential candidate and current U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg, discusses his foray into politics and how it helped him realize his voice might be helpful to young people. His advice spans topics of being bullied and teased to how to use one’s voice for good, woven seamlessly into each story and never preachy. While nothing new, the vignettes from his youth that accompany these tidbits are entertaining with his flair for humor, while simultaneously touching and can help any reader feel not alone. Each chapter is brief, keeping the pace quick and conversational. Back matter includes a collection of photos spanning Buttigieg’s childhood and career.