The Fights That Make Us - Sarah Hagger-Holt

Having recently come out as non-binary, Jesse is struggling in school to feel accepted.  When their history teacher announces that they will be doing a project of their own choosing, Jesse and their friend Simran struggle to know what theme to choose; however, when accompanying their mum to their cousin Lisa's funeral, Jesse stumbles upon a box which includes Lisa's diary, something that may just provide the inspiration they are looking for. The diary takes Jesse back to the 80s where Lisa is falling for her best friend at a time when laws were being passed that restricted LGBTQ+ rights.  What unfolds is a story of two family members, decades apart, and their fight for their rights. 

As well as Jesse's story, The Fights That Make Us tells Lisa's story, one of growing up in the 80s where life was very different than it is today for the LGBTQ+ community.  As a teenager of the 80s, I am probably about the same age as Lisa but I have to admit (I'm embarrassed to say) to being naïve at the time to Section 28 and the implications it had.  Today, it horrifies me to think that a government could put such restrictions in place and make the lives of so many people so difficult.  It's so important for young people to be able to understand the world around them and to be able to be their true selves. 

In this book, I don't think Jesse realises how strong they are.  Their sense of self will be an inspiration to many who read the book.  Unfortunately, what they go through in school is awful, and whilst there are those who are there to support (Simran, Ms Grant, Leo...), there are too many who are ready to ridicule and ignore their rights to be themself.  Despite the forty year time gap, it is clear that those in the LGBTQ+ community still face prejudice and negativity today.  Although much progress has been made, there is clearly still a way to go.

The Fights That Make Us is an incredibly powerful and important read.  It's a story of heart-ache and bigotry, but also of hope and being able to be yourself, but most of all it's a story that reminds us all that everybody has a right to be accepted and loved for who they are.  It's truly shocking what students endured under Section 28 and I felt so proud of Jesse and Simran for not giving up and the impact their exhibition had - I have to admit that I cried.  

This is an unforgettable book and one that is an important read for students in upper KS2 and KS3, as well as adults. Publishing on the 1st February, The Fights That Make Us is a book that needs to be read.