“Anybody who’s heard me talk at length about Navigating With You knows that when I was writing the first book, I had more I wanted to say about Gabby and Neesha,” said author Jeremy Whitley. “I think this story is important because as fun as falling in love is, it’s way easier than being in a relationship – even one as deep and important to them as Neesha and Gabby’s. I think we do queer folks a disservice when we pretend that finding your first love means all the hard work is over. Navigating With You Vol. 2 is about the very real and very hard task of keeping a long distance relationship going even as your life is going through massive changes. It also introduces a whole new expanded cast of characters in both Neesha and Gabby’s lives for readers to fall in love with. I know readers who loved the first book will love this one and even a few readers who thought the first book wrapped things up too neatly might find something in here that appeals to them.”
“When Maverick first approached me with this book, I fell in love with the premise at first sight,” added artistFelia Hanakata. “Anime? Manga? Bookclub? Long distance relationship? Sign me in! As someone who had a long distance relationship for over a decade, it is such hard work and a huge commitment and I’m so happy to be able to draw Gabby and Neesha’s! The art and editorial teams were great and understanding, letting me do what I do best: drawing the subtle nuances of relationships. The anime part was such a treat too–I got to flex my flashy shounen muscles. Readers who love cozy romance with deep characters, nuanced friendships/relationships, and anime will definitely love this one!”
With glowing reviews from readers and critics alike including a Stonewall Honor from the American Library Association and nominations for the Harvey and Ringo Awards, Navigating With You has cemented itself as one of Maverick’s most celebrated titles.
“Whitley’s life-like characters with authentic teen voices shine under Hanakata’s stunning manga art style and Cahill’s incredible coloring,” expressed New York Teen Librarian Sam Erin Scala. “Navigating With You Vol. 2 is a must-read for anime-loving and/or queer teens looking for relatable, heartfelt stories, such as preparing for their next steps after high school and the trials and tribulations of being a teen in love.”
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