Lawnboy by Paul Lisicky - Literary Fiction
Lawnboy is, quite simply, the real thing, a novel of mystery and great beauty. --Michael Cunningham
They all thought I was good-natured, upright and responsible, generous, affectionate, and kind, and of course I could be those things, but there was much more to me than that, a side that unnerved even myself, and this side included William.
About Lawnboy
Seventeen-year-old Evan's adventure begins with mowing a neighbor's lawn, a summer job that leads him into an unpredictable world of desire and betrayal. Estranged from his parents and his older brother, he moves in with forty-one-year-old William and begins a disastrous series of attempts to make a new home. Must he make a choice between his family and desire?
First published to wide acclaim in 1999, Lawnboy by Paul Lisicky wanders the lush and tumultuous landscape of the early 1990s, its south Florida setting as fertile and troubling as Evan's inner life. This debut novel explores themes of identity, belonging, and the complexities of human relationships through richly drawn characters and evocative prose.
Why Readers Love This Novel
Published by Graywolf Press, this paperback edition has earned praise from literary luminaries including Michael Cunningham. The novel's honest portrayal of a young protagonist navigating desire and family expectations resonates with readers seeking authentic LGBTQ+ narratives. Set against the backdrop of 1990s Florida, the story captures a specific cultural moment while exploring timeless themes of self-discovery and connection.
Perfect for book clubs and readers of character-driven contemporary fiction, Lawnboy offers a nuanced examination of relationships across generations and the courage required to forge one's own path.
