I Can't Even Think Straight cover art

I Can't Even Think Straight

A queer coming of age story

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I Can't Even Think Straight

By: Dean Atta
Narrated by: Dean Atta
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About this listen

 Big decisions and messy relationships. It's all part of life for Kai. A must-read queer coming of age story for fans of Sarah Crossan and Sex Education, written in verse by Stonewall-Award-winning, Carnegie-shortlisted author Dean Atta.

Kai is going into a new school year with some big decisions to make: when to come out as gay, what he wants to do in life and who he wants to date. Is it any wonder he can't think straight?

Best friends Matt and Kai made a promise to each other to stay in the closet. Matt isn't ready to come out, but Kai wants nothing more than to write his own story. He decides it's time to break his promise and show his true self to the world.

Now out and proud, Kai starts dating super-hot Obi, but it's far from smooth sailing. Is love closer to home than Kai realises?©2025 Dean Atta Coming of Age LGBTQ+ Literature & Fiction

Critic reviews

Eloquent, layered coming-of-age verse novel
A clever title, and a story written in verse, I Can't Even Think Straight can be read in one single sitting, but will sit with you for much longer
Dean Atta has once again delivered a powerful, emotional YA novel in verse that makes the reader feel they are peeking into someone's diary...this is a very sweet, sometimes raw YA
All stars
Most relevant
Combining raw authenticity with beautiful, lyrical prose, this novel delves into the lives of British Black boys as they come out to their families and friends. With secret crushes and family drama, it powerfully captures the challenges and joys of finding identity and love. Dean’s signature writing style shines, while sensitive handling of key themes and well-developed characters make this an emotionally engaging, meaningful read perfect for those interested in LGBTQ+ stories or personal growth journeys.

Its an important LGBT Story

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