Book Review: “Olivia Gray Will Not Fade Away” by Ciera Burch

“Olivia Gray Will Not Fade Away” by Ciera Burch (2026)

Genre: Middle Grade, LGBT, Fantasy, Fiction

Page Length: 272 pages (hardcover edition)

Synopsis:

Seventh grade has just started, but Olivia Gray already knows this year is different. Her brother ignores her for his crush, and all her friends talk about is who likes who, something Olivia has never cared about—even when Robbie, the most popular boy in school, asks her to the fall formal. After unknowingly rejecting him, Olivia goes viral on the social app KruShh. As the chatter about Robbie and dating grows, Olivia starts to feel left out to the point of feeling invisible—literally.

Seen only by her new librarian and a friendly kid named Jules, Olivia flickers in and out of sight whenever the topic of romance comes up. As she begins to realize she might be asexual, Olivia struggles to actually use the label because of the negative perception behind it. All she wants is to be normal, but can she really fit in without disappearing completely?

Review:

Olivia Gray Will Not Fade Away is a story of coming-of-age story about self-discovery, sexuality, and identity. I’ve read Burch’s work before and I love she how tackles the themes of growing up and how challenging it can be. I think this novel will be inspiring and helpful to young readers who may be dealing with the same issues Olivia faces in this novel. It’s very important to have stories such as this to not only educate readers but to give them support in their own lives.

I appreciated how this novel encapsulates the feeling invisible—literally and figuratively through fantasy/magical realism elements. The way the invisibility aspects were done fit well with in the story and gave the narrative added depth as well. I could relate to Olivia’s feelings about junior high because of the shifting friendship dynamics at that age and struggling to find a place where you fit in. Readers will find solace in her journey and be reminded that they are not alone.

This story packs a great punch and an overall uplifting feeling after the ending. Olivia shows immense growth throughout the novel by not only navigating through her issues, but coming to a realization that she doesn’t need to change for anyone (a reminder we can all use every now and then). Definitely a recommended read.

Final Verdict: