A fascinating memoir by a young man growing up in a religious household and with more pressure on him than anybody could possibly bear. It is amazing that anybody, gay or straight, can successfully grow up with all of the conflicting expectations that adults place on them. Well written, and will pursue finding other books by this author.
It is good to see that increasing support for young people is available at universities and colleges. When people are far away from their parents and families, this can be a very good and positive thing, but could also put them into a much more vulnerable situation, especially if they are just coming out and revealing their true sexually identity.

The author tells his life story, growing up poor in North Carolina, his father's death when the author was a young boy, and his struggles in school as he tried to deal with his homosexuality. He attended Harvard University, became a teacher, and eventually devoted himself to making school a safer place for young lesbian and gay students. A great read, with only a few minor editorial glitches. ( )