Rating: 9/10
Favorite Character: Becky

This book follows Michael, a gay teen living in New York City in the 1980s. This book describes the difficulties and joys of Michael’s life. His brother was disowned and kicked out of the house by his abusive father for being gay. Michael’s mother, despite loving both brothers anyway, remains quiet, allowing his father to dictate her life. However, there are some bright spots in Michael’s life, namely his friends, Becky and James, though they both have their own problems they face. Meanwhile, the AIDS pandemic is a shadow haunting the whole story, creating an atmosphere of fear. While reading this book, I spent a significant amount of time crying on the floor. This book is poignant and extremely well-written, as the story transports you into Michael’s world, making you feel his heartbreak and doubt.