Pitched as Heartstopper meets Friday Night Lights, Time Out is a heartfelt YA novel that follows a local high school basketball star's journey from being the most celebrated player in Georgia to being most hated after coming out as gay during their pep rally.

I enjoyed reading about Barclay Elliot's journey from being a basketball prodigy to Chitwood's disgrace after his coming out because the portrayal of how the community reacted is realistic. Yes, many cities and countries are slowly moving towards the progressive route but there are still places like Chitwood where people refuse to accept the truth and remain close-minded.

It was a horrific experience for Barclay given how his status nosedived after one event and it's understandable how Barclay reacted to the people he loved. But another thing this story highlighted is how the color of one's skin plays a role to a queer's coming out story. Barclay is white and used-to-be Chitwood's basketball hero, and after him coming out publicly he was still given a societal status that one won't be receiving if the MC is a POC.

The romance aspect was only secondary to Barclay's journey but I find it enjoyable to read. Though Barclopher's (Barclay and Christopher's ship name) chemistry was not instantaneous, it was still a joyous experience to read how they went from heated schoolmates to allies to friends to lovers. Such a cute development.

And yes, this book is packed with commentary on homophobia, a bit about racism, and how classism and corruption works together.

Overall, a quick read that is recommended if you're looking for a heartfelt novel dedicated for queer teens who are navigating the messy world after coming out.
RATING: 4stars