The trends of 2021/2022: Olivia Rodrigo, Taylor Swift, baggy jeans, Squid Game, Kim and Kanye’s demise, the Met Gala and most metionably, social change. See, never more has social justice been a topic discussed, argued and defended than by our very own Gen-Z. Only as a generation, we struggle to prolong the spotlight of such radical societal issues for which reason they often fail to withstand the test of time. For one month wide reaching corporations dress their logos in rainbow and call it support. For a month, headlines were dedicated uniquely to the crisis in Ukraine and for a sole week, every instagram story bathed in prochoice and women’s rights posts after the abortian ban in the US. But what happens after that? Crickets. We care and in a blink we forget and the vicious cycle never ceases. This novel is not just the tale of transgender child named Poppy, it's the story of change. Change of heart, change of mind, change in community, but most importantly, change that stays. It’s the exact kind of motivational text Canada needs right now because in light of recent years, we have come to realise that we are not in fact the all inclusive and accepting country we pride ourselves on being. Like everywhere we have our struggles, but to solve them requires conversations we often choose to forgo because it risks tarnishing our model reputation. This issue is, if we don't change, as the title implies, this is how it always is and this is how it always will be. This novel speaks of vastly important topics concerning familial presence as well as violence and discrimation toward members of the LGBTQ+ community all the while debunking preconceived misconceptions we had surrounding said topics. The way the plot unfolds is indicative of Laurie Frankel's talent and artistry as author, because of the way she can craft a story that leaves readers like myself educated on a subject we may not have been beforehand while also satisfied when it comes time to turn that final page. Not only that, but knowing the author has the personal knowledge of being the mother to a transgender child herself, the story evokes an all the more powerful message that brings insight to every reader who’s bestowed its pages and leaves each and everyone with a compelling urge to take action. Which steers me to believe that if granted the chance, this novel has the power of collective good. It's a reminder of the battle we as a society must continue to fight as both members or allies of the LGBTQ+ community, and it is the very incentive we so require to do so. A beautifully written novel, a notion of change and a beacon of hope. This is How It Always Is deserves the winning title.