What It Feels Like for a Girl

What It Feels Like for a Girl by Paris Lees is a raw and riveting coming-of-age tale that has been celebrated as a new literary classic. Set against the backdrop of the early 2000s, thirteen-year-old Byron yearns for an escape from a life weighed down by bullying and a dysfunctional family. Mocked for being different and tired of his father's macho ways and his mother's absenteeism, Byron longs to break free from his dreary existence in Hucknall, Nottinghamshire. As the new millennium dawns with Madonna's 'Music' resonating across the airwaves, Byron embarks on a thrilling journey of self-discovery. By hook or by crook, he dives headfirst into Nottingham's electrifying underworld, a realm pulsating with hedonism and risk. Here, he encounters Lady Die, the enigmatic and charismatic podium-dancer who becomes his guide through the wild rollercoaster of nightlife and rebellion. The narrative vividly captures the intensity of Byron's adventures—his euphoric highs and devastating lows—perfectly encapsulating the hedonistic spirit of youth seeking purpose and belonging. Yet, amid the chaos, a shocking revelation awaits Byron, one that will irrevocably alter the course of his life. Lees' debut is bold, poignant, and frequently uproarious, delivering a story that balances humour with heart-rending emotion. It captures the voice of a generation navigating the tumultuous journey to self-acceptance and identity. What It Feels Like for a Girl is a compelling, compulsively readable novel, heralding Paris Lees as one of Britain's most promising new literary talents. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking an authentic, fearless depiction of growing up and the search for individuality in an often unforgiving world.