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“Khorram impresses with this searing, deeply felt dual-POV novel. . . . Urgent second-person narration expertly nails both teens’ insecurities and self-perception. The result is a powerfully relevant and affirming story about trying to connect with oneself while navigating homophobia, misogyny, and toxic masculinity.”

—Publishers Weekly, Starred Review

“Thoughtfully weaving their stories together, Khorram adeptly explores the nuances of personal character amid the complex context of public shaming. A formidable tale highlighting the repercussions of homophobia in high school.”

—Kirkus Reviews

“The alternating perspectives and second-person point of view immerse the reader in the action. . . . [An] honest and ultimately hopeful story of deciding between what is easy and what is right.”

—Booklist

“Khorram’s sensitive exploration of contemporary boyhood offers adolescent readers a positive alternative to currently prevailing homophobic and misogynistic narratives. His skillful use of the second person for both characters immerses readers in Dayton’s and Farshid’s mindsets, creating a nuanced portrayal of a complex situation with no easy answers but with a hopeful outcome.”

—Horn Book

One Word, Six Letters

Written by Adib Khorram
Published by Henry Holt and Co. (BYR)

Freshmen Dayton and Farshid couldn’t be more different—or so it seems.

When Dayton takes a dare and shouts the f-slur at a visiting author during a school event, it sets off a chain reaction that forces both boys to face parts of themselves they’d rather ignore.

Dayton, grappling with the fallout of his actions, faces rejection from his friends, disappointment from his parents, and a growing awareness of the harm he’s caused. Meanwhile, Farshid is left to untangle his own feelings—about himself and about the quiet struggle of coming to terms with his queerness in a world steeped in heteronormativity.

As their lives unexpectedly intersect, Dayton and Farshid must reckon with what kind of men they want to become and whether they have the courage to defy toxic masculinity and societal expectations.

Primary ISBN: 9781250405555
Publication Date: March 2026
Available As: Hardcover, Audiobook, eBook
Young Adult, Age 12 or older

Community Represented:

Themes: , , , , , , , , , ,

Setting: United States (Missouri)

Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: Immigrant

Book Creator(s) Connection to the Community Represented: Own Voices/Lived Experience

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Engagement Materials:

An Introduction with Author; Adib Khorram

Source: Henry Holt and Co. (BYR)