About this book
Sixteen-year-old Bart Lively desperately wants to feel comfortable in his own skin. The macho culture of his swim club is wearing him down and being a jock doesn't mean he isn't the target of gay jokes. Drawn to the art and athleticism of sychronised swimming, he jumps at the chance to become the first boy on the team, even if it means others start questioning his masculinity even more. All the while he starts falling for his teammate Erika, and falling in lust with her synchro rival Chelsea ... not to mention a cute boy in the diving club, leading him to question what it means to be a boy.
Censorship history
In 2024, "Synchro Boy" by Shannon McFerran faced bans at the school level across various districts in the United States, primarily due to concerns over its themes related to gender identity and sexuality. Specific complaints were lodged by parents and community members who argued that the book was inappropriate for young readers, leading to school board votes that resulted in its removal from library shelves. The book's challenges reflect ongoing debates about LGBTQ+ representation in literature and the perceived impact on students' understanding of masculinity and gender roles. As of now, the ban remains upheld in several districts, with ongoing discussions about its potential reinstatement.
Bans
| Country | Year | Reasons |
|---|---|---|
| United States | 2024 | LGBTQ+Moral |
