The Thing I Didn’t Know I Didn’t Know is a novel written by Brent Hartinger. The story revolves around Russel Middlebrook, a gay teenager who is trying to navigate through the complexities of love, relationships, and self-discovery.

The book begins with Russel starting his freshman year at college. He is excited about the new experiences and opportunities that await him. However, he soon realizes that college life is not as glamorous as he had imagined. Russel finds himself struggling with classes, making friends, and dealing with the pressures of being openly gay in a new environment.

As Russel tries to find his place in college, he meets a diverse group of characters who become his friends and confidants. Among them are Gunnar, a handsome jock who seems to have it all together but hides a secret; Min, a quirky and outspoken girl who challenges Russel’s preconceived notions; and Kevin, an older student who becomes Russel’s mentor and guide.

Throughout the book, Russel grapples with his own insecurities and fears. He questions his ability to be in a committed relationship and wonders if he will ever find true love. As he navigates through various romantic encounters and heartbreaks, Russel learns valuable lessons about trust, communication, and self-acceptance.

One of the central themes of the book is the exploration of identity. Russel struggles with understanding who he truly is and what he wants out of life. He confronts societal expectations and stereotypes associated with being gay, ultimately learning to embrace his own unique identity.

The Thing I Didn’t Know I Didn’t Know also delves into deeper issues such as homophobia, discrimination, and the importance of LGBTQ+ representation. The novel sheds light on the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in society and highlights the need for acceptance and understanding.

Overall, The Thing I Didn’t Know I Didn’t Know is a coming-of-age story that explores the complexities of love, relationships, and self-discovery. Through Russel’s journey, readers are reminded of the importance of embracing one’s true identity and finding happiness in the face of adversity.

• The Thing I Didn’t Know I Didn’t Know

• By: Brent Hartinger
• Narrated by: Josh Hurley

Russell Middlebrook is 23 years old, gay and lives in trendy Seattle, but life doesn’t keep up with the hype. Most of his friends have direction in life – either ruthlessly pursuing their careers or passionately embracing their own indeterminacy. But Russell was stuck in place. All he knows is that bad jobs, horrible dates, and pointless relationships are no longer appealing.

What is the secret? What does everyone else know that he doesn’t?

Enter Kevin, Russell’s perfect high school boyfriend. Could rekindling the old flame be what Russell needed to get his life back on track? Or maybe the answer lies in a new friend, an eccentric screenwriter named Vernie Rose, who seems very wise. Or what the hell is that? Perhaps Russell will find some answers by joining his best friend Gunnar’s frantic quest for the legendary bigfoot!

One way or another, Russell is determined to learn life’s most important secret, even if it’s something he doesn’t even know he doesn’t know.

I love this book and the series. it’s so romantic and can’t wait to read other books. I also hope that Kevin and Russell get married and have children of their own. This story is so refreshing, sweet and raw. The nervous and necrotic young man and his bad weird friends draw you in.

The writer has done an excellent job – capturing the anger of the early to mid-20s. The protagonist is believable and nuanced. It was the first romance that made me feel happy but not sad and never made me sad enough to cry.

Great! I read this author for the first time and I am hooked! Love the richly developed characters. A sincere, deep, satisfying listening that left me feeling cozy and looking forward to the sequel. Josh Hurley was also new to me and he nailed the story. He captures each character. Love this audio book so much!!! I highly recommend.

This is a lovely story and well told. I enjoyed the description of the area, including the natural resources and the City. The characters are also realistic and interesting.

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