A heated debate erupted during the Citrus County Special Library District Advisory Board meeting on December 2, 2024, as members discussed the appropriateness of a young adult novel featuring LGBTQ+ themes. The book, which follows the romantic journey of two young men, Ben and Arthur, has sparked controversy over its placement in the young adult section, which caters to readers aged 15 to 18.

Critics voiced concerns that the novel's mature content—including discussions of past relationships, physical intimacy, and strong language—may not be suitable for younger readers. One board member expressed strong reservations, stating, "I could never see this appropriate for a 13-year-old to have in his hands." This sentiment reflects a broader anxiety among parents about exposing preteens to complex themes of love and identity, particularly in LGBTQ+ contexts.

The discussion highlighted specific elements of the book that some consider too mature for its intended audience. Critics pointed out that while the novel does not contain explicit descriptions, it includes suggestive dialogue and intimate moments that could be overwhelming for younger adolescents. Additionally, the use of profanity, including frequent references to strong language, raised alarms about normalizing such expressions in literature aimed at teenagers.

As the board deliberated, the question of whether to keep the book in the young adult section or move it to adult literature remained unresolved. Some members acknowledged the need for representation in literature but grappled with the implications of exposing younger readers to content they might not be ready to process. The ongoing debate underscores the challenges libraries face in balancing diverse literary offerings with the developmental readiness of their young patrons.

The board's decision on the book's placement will likely influence how similar titles are handled in the future, as they navigate the complexities of age-appropriate content in an increasingly diverse literary landscape.