Classic LGBTQ+ Coming of Age Novel Set in 1960s Bronx
A classic coming of age novel about a teenager coming to terms with his sexuality in the political and cultural milieu of the 1960s.
Written with uncanny precision and wild humor, this is the story of Billy Connors, high school student in the Bronx, member of the swim team, and all-around regular guy, who in his sixteenth year has to face the fact that he's a little different from everyone else, a little "weird."
Though he's sort of going steady with a girl and popular at school, he's always worried that the secret fantasies he has about men would set him apart and make him "different" if anyone knew about them. How Billy faces up to himself--and his friends--as he discovers the complexities of life, the exuberance of sex, and what it means to be an adult in our imperfect world, makes for a touching, wise, and very moving novel.
About This Edition
This Stonewall Inn Editions publication captures a pivotal moment in LGBTQ+ literature, offering readers an authentic portrayal of teenage identity and self-discovery during a transformative era in American history. The novel follows Billy Connors through his sixteenth year as he navigates high school life, relationships, and the internal conflict between his public persona and private feelings.
Key Themes
The narrative explores the complexities of teenage sexuality, the pressure to conform, and the courage required to acknowledge one's true self. Set against the backdrop of 1960s Bronx culture, the story provides both historical context and timeless insights into the adolescent experience. Billy's journey from confusion to self-acceptance resonates with readers across generations.
