Ten years ago, I’d say this novel would not be on the shelves of my high school library.  Boyfriends with Girlfriends is the story of two sets of boy and girl friends: Sergio and Kimiko are best friends that will be juxtaposed with Allie and Lance.  Each has character flaws that make them real teenagers dealing with their sexual identity.  Even today, I’m a little hesitant to add it to the collection, but here is why I will.  Alex Sanchez created characters with such unique identities.  And I’m not talking just sexual identities.  Lance is proud of being gay but doesn’t believe someone could be bisexual.  Despite his confidence, he’s never been in a relationship…yet.  His best friend Allie is in a lengthy relationship with  her boyfriend Chip, but she is starting to feel like it doesn’t right.  Kimiko is sure she’s a lesbian, but hasn’t come out to her parents and also hasn’t been in a relationship…yet.  Finally Sergio knows he is bisexual, was tragically dumped by his previous girlfriend, and is afraid to get into a relationship again.  Yes, the sexual identity issues are a huge piece of the story, but the reality is they are for every teenager.  Should I get into a relationship?  How far am I willing to share myself both physically and emotionally?  These are questions on every teenagers mind, despite their sexuality.  Add in the pressures from parents and school and this is very much a mainstream young adult novel.  Still, librarians need to know there is tension as the teens do explore each other physically.  In particular a scene between Sergio and Lance with very heavy petting.  But Sanchez gives voice to a group of students in our schools who are not represented in literature.  American society is becoming more aware of LGBT issues of late.  If you have a LGBT group that meets in your school, then this book should be on your shelves.