About this book
MAX WALKER - BLUE-EYED BOY OR GIRL NEXT DOOR? 'Terrific. A poignant, brave and important book. - S J WATSON 'A gripping read. Tarttelin is a natural storyteller' MATT HAIG 'Tarttelin broaches the topic of intersexuality bravely, describes the crimes committed against Max intensely, and evokes his ensuing emotions poignantly. A highly praised new author' WE LOVE THIS BOOK To the outside world, Max Walker is a golden boy: a loving son and brother, the perfect student, captain of the football team and every girl's dream boyfriend. But Max was born intersex - neither fully boy nor fully girl. Now something terrible has happened to him, the consequences of which have left him questioning his gender identity. Can the people around him - his girlfriend, his classmates, his ambitious parents - accept him for who he is? Or will Max's secret tear his world apart?
Censorship history
Golden Boy: Blue-Eyed Boy or Girl Next Door was banned or restricted in United States in 2025 for its LGBTQ+ themes and positive depiction of queer identity, as well as sexual content. This case is part of a global pattern in which LGBTQ+ representation in literature faces disproportionate legal and institutional pressure.
Bans
| Country | Year | Reasons |
|---|---|---|
| United States | 2025 | LGBTQ+Sexual |
