Probably one of the most immersive autobiographies that I've read, mainly due to this being a graphic novel and its stunning soundtrack to James' coming of age in the California desert. I've been drawn to the punk scene for years: its culture, aesthetic, music, commitment to activism, ideologies, etc. Spooner goes into great detail on the scene, that it's more than just a style, more than the music, it's action, it's beliefs, it's a safe haven for those on the fringes of society. It's not always glamorous, but it's honest.

It's really a roller coaster of a story as young James navigates new friendships, new crushes, and his first steps into punk society while also dealing with the hate and bigotry that lives in a small, desolate area. I started to get genuinely nervous every time the skinheads would make an appearance just because you never know when something would devolve into violence and hate crimes. But the story has a natural rhythm to it so that it never feels like a tonal whiplash.

I also love how James reflected on his youth, how he believed one way as a teen but made a note to mention his perceptions and attitudes changed as he got older and how he grew more into self acceptance. It gives an idea of what came after the events of the graphic novel and how his journey progressed.