Body Grammar

March 1, 2022

DEBUT At the tipping point of her adolescence, Lou would rather be behind the camera than in front of it, despite the modeling agents persistently sinking their teeth into her. She's preoccupied with documenting those around her, not so much with modeling. Ohman's debut trails Lou as she makes her journey of self-discovery. Thrust into the hurricane that is the modeling industry, Lou takes on the weight of finding purpose. The evocative narrative that explores the relationship between movement and self-expression in this title is gripping, nearly transporting readers into the bodies and minds of the characters. At times, the story falls flat and becomes predictable. However, this coming-of-age tale is redeemed by tender moments of queer connection and raw vulnerability. VERDICT Lou's strut through the tribulations of youth and identity will be relatable for those in their late teens, making this title especially enticing for younger audiences. Libraries where queer fiction or coming-of-age stories are popular should consider adding Ohman's debut to their collections.--Grace Caternolo

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March 15, 2022
The women start appearing out of nowhere the year Lou turns 14. They are scouts looking for potential fashion models. Lou resolutely ignores them until a tragedy changes her mind and at 18 she becomes a successful model virtually--and implausibly--overnight. Nothing can stop her rise, not even falling off the ramp and spoiling a Chanel fashion show. Much less successful is her ongoing attempt to define her relationship with her musician friend Ivy. It's obvious to readers that she loves Ivy and Ivy loves her, but, frustratingly, the two can't seem to understand that. And so they go their separate ways, Lou to modeling and Ivy to touring with her band, only meeting, usually awkwardly, on rare occasions. Ohman does a commendable job of taking readers inside the world of fashion, including fashion photography, which fascinates amateur photographer Lou, who, increasingly disenchanted with modeling, begins to wonder if there might be a future for her in photography. Ohman's novel is inarguably well written and, though occasionally frustrating, will surely find a devoted readership.

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April 25, 2022
A young queer woman muddles through romantic relationships and grief while finding success as a model in this perceptive if flat debut. Lou, reeling from witnessing her friend Catherine’s sister drown, postpones enrolling in the University of Oregon and sets aside her photography hobby. Instead, she follows up with one of the many requests she’s had to work as a model, and leaves Portland for New York City. Ivy, her crush, decides to stay behind in Oregon to focus on her music. Unable to confess her feelings to Ivy, Lou cuts off contact despite encouragement from mutual friends to open up. As a model, Lou feels awkward and uncertain, but soon finds her footing and gets over her heartache over Ivy. Not even a tumble during a Chanel show in Paris slows her career ascent, though she’s overwhelmed by paparazzi attention after she starts dating another model. Lou reconsiders modeling, frets about Ivy and Catherine (who struggles with substance use), and begins assisting a photographer as she lurches toward maturity. Ohman captures the uncertainties of early adulthood and queer love with a clear eye, but the thin plot and constrained emotion hinder the impact. Ohman is a talented writer, but this one doesn’t quite work. Agent: Dan Conaway, Writers House.