Step into the heartfelt world of Russel Middlebrook, where a gay teen’s journey through high school and beyond captures the joys and challenges of finding yourself with humor and heart! Brent Hartinger’s Russel Middlebrook series, a cornerstone of LGBTQ+ young adult literature, follows its lovable protagonist as he navigates friendship, love, and identity in a world that’s not always welcoming. With a devoted fanbase and critical acclaim, this series is a must-read for anyone craving authentic, uplifting stories.
How Russel Middlebrook Began
In 2003, Brent Hartinger, a Washington-born author with a knack for storytelling, introduced Russel Middlebrook in his debut novel, Geography Club. Inspired by his own experiences as a gay teen, Hartinger crafted a narrative that was both deeply personal and universally relatable. He wanted to create a space where young readers could see themselves—flaws, fears, and all—while laughing along the way. The book’s success sparked a series that grew to include multiple arcs, following Russel from adolescence to his twenties.
The Heart of Russel Middlebrook
The series kicks off with Geography Club, where Russel, convinced he’s the only gay kid at Goodkind High, discovers a secret ally in Kevin, a closeted jock. Together with friends like Min, a bisexual teen, they form the Geography Club—a cover for a safe space to connect. The second book, The Order of the Poison Oak, takes Russel to summer camp, blending romance and self-discovery with campy adventures. Double Feature (originally Split Screen) dives into Russel’s role as an extra in a zombie movie, exploring fame and relationships. Finally, The Elephant of Surprise wraps up the YA arc with Russel facing unexpected twists, like a mysterious activist named Wade. Themes of self-acceptance, chosen family, and resilience shine through, set against the backdrop of high school and early adulthood. Hartinger’s witty, conversational style makes every page feel like a chat with a close friend.
The series doesn’t shy away from real issues—bullying, coming out, and societal pressures—but it balances them with humor and hope. Russel’s journey resonates because it’s not just about being gay; it’s about being human, making mistakes, and growing through them. The inclusion of diverse characters, like Otto Digmore, a gay disabled friend who later stars in his own series, adds depth and authenticity.
Why Russel Middlebrook Resonates
The Russel Middlebrook series broke ground as part of a new wave of LGBTQ+ YA fiction, earning a Lambda Literary Award and a 2013 film adaptation of Geography Club. Its impact lies in its unapologetic honesty and its ability to make readers laugh and cry in the same breath. Fans praise Hartinger for creating characters who feel like real friends, tackling issues like peer pressure and self-doubt with nuance. The series’ transition to the ‘new adult’ genre in Russel Middlebrook: The Futon Years further cements its legacy, offering a rare glimpse into a character’s evolution into adulthood.
- Publication Years: 2003–2016 (YA and new adult series)
- Number of Books: 9 (4 YA, 3 Futon Years, 2 Otto Digmore)
- Awards: Lambda Literary Award for Double Feature
- Film: Geography Club (2013), starring Cameron Deane Stewart
Ready to laugh, love, and cheer for Russel? Grab Geography Club and dive into a world where being yourself is the ultimate adventure!