I came across this book off a library online pride book club reading list. It was the selection for the previous month, which meant I wasn’t able to discuss the book (BOO) but there were available copies at my library (YAY).
I knew of Ryan O’Connell from his show Special on Netflix, which is semi autobiographical, he’s a queer creative with Cerebral Palsy. If you haven’t checked out his show, both seasons are fantastic. Ryan’s perspective, + Kim, played by Punam Patel, the cherry on top of that sundae.
Just by Looking at Him, features Elliott, a TV writer who has Cerebral Palsy. Elliott goes on a self discovery journey, accompanied by the good old four L’s, Love – Life – Loss & Learning.
The plot is a bit predictable. But 20 pages in I knew where it was going and I said yep, I’m all in.
It’s a hangout book, and you get to hang with Ryan O’Connell. How cool is that? You get witty asides, well placed TV references, and become a member of his cheer squad. From the read you gain insight, perspective, and information on Cerebral Palsy, and it never felt forced.
I haven’t read a book in SUCH a long time, say mid 2023, but this book had the right frequency, and it kept me engaged throughout. The only downside was it got a bit preachy at the end, BUT I totally agree with the character’s position – so it was welcomed. I could see the preachiness getting to someone based on their personal preferences.
It’s a 4/5, I really enjoyed it. It was a fun and relaxing read, I learnt a few things along the way, what’s not to love? Oh and I just learnt that Ryan is in the newish Queer as Folk, anyone got a Peacock Password they can lend me??