Gail Sidonie Sobat

I am so tired of books where LGBT characters are presented as cowards for not coming out.

This book addresses a lot of social issues. It could have had a good message about being aware of prejudice, stopping discrimination, and overall treating people like a decent human being.

EXCEPT. The main character keeps on threatening to out his closeted maybe-boyfriend. Keeps on implying that he's spineless and a chicken, even though he's clearly not in a safe environment to be openly gay.

I expect better from books, especially LGBT books for teens. There is no shame in staying in the closet until you're safe, until you're comfortable, until you're ready. And anyone -- or any book -- that implies otherwise is not worth your time.… (mehr)

A remarkable story about a teenager bonding with a senior citizen sharing their lives and love for music and literature. Jan is fulfilling a community service obligation after getting in trouble with the law by helping out a senior citizens home. He befriends Al who is a resident dying of cancer. Chapters are short describing each visit, followed by a dream or nightmare where Jan reflects on his past relationships with his mother and estranged father. The young nurse, Jodi, becomes part of the action caring for Al's medical needs and helping Jan cope with his death.… (mehr)