Book Review: “This Is Why They Hate Us” A Bisexual Classic by Aaron H. Aceves

Rating: ★★★★★ (5 stars)

Aaron H. Aceves’s novel, “This Is Why They Hate Us,” is a vivid and unapologetic dive into the turbulence of teenage years, seen through the eyes of a charismatic and introspective protagonist, Enrique “Quique” Luna. A 17-year-old Mexican American bisexual boy from East Los Angeles named Quique navigates first crushes, the daunting challenge of coming out, and the universal tumult of teen angst with honesty and humor.

Aceves masterfully portrays Quique’s journey, making him relatable to anyone who has ever felt the pangs of first love and its uncertainty. The narrative thrives on Quique’s crushes, ranging from his female best friend, Fabiola, to boys and hot teachers. Quique’s sexuality is imaginative and raunchy, which allows readers to root for Quique in hopes he finds what he’s looking for. The authenticity is humorous and poignant, encapsulating the often chaotic pulse of teenage life with the added layer of being bisexual.

Moreover, the novel employs notable queer literature — such as “Giovanni’s Room,” “The Picture of Dorian Gray,” and “Call Me By Your Name” — as beacons through which Quique explores and understands his feelings. These literary references enrich the narrative and anchor Quique’s personal growth and self-discovery in…