Boy Meets Boy by David Levithan is a charming novel about normal teenagers and their quest for love. Although the story is centered around a gay adolescent male and his relationships, the reader is led to focus more on the journey than on the individuals' sexuality.
This book was extremely easy to read and I would definitely enjoy using it in a classroom for several reasons. It would pair greatly with Thomas Moore's Utopia, and would invoke a great amount of discussion in the classroom. Although I recognize that many parents and/or administrators may not like the idea of using LGBT literature in the classroom, it is an issue that must be faced by all adolescents. Many of teens are facing the same struggles as Paul; but, unfortunately, do not live in a utopian society where they can feel safe being exactly who they are.
Boy Meets Boy is obviously set in a world that, unfortunately, does not exist. With the exception of Tony, each character is able to feel free to express themselves as they wish with little to no repurcussions. Infinite Darlene is a prime example of this. Once again, this would be a wonderful place for Boy Meets Boy to enter a classroom and spark conversation. Students could debate how they feel about self-expression and/or sexual expression. Class discussions about Tony's lifestyle and his problems with his parents' religion is sure to bring many personal examples to the table.
What Do You Mean No More Books?!?!
13 years ago
I liked Tony because he was very real to me. I think that even though he is a smaller character in the book, he is perhaps the most important one, as he allows us to make the transition from fictional book to real life most easily. He is the springboard for discussion.
ReplyDeleteI like what you say in paragraph 2: "Teens are facing the same struggles as Paul, but unfortunately... they can[not] feel safe being exactly who they are." I think this book opens doors to discussion, not just about homosexuality, but about what students want to do and who they want to become. Great for starting discussions about how the Varsity Team's starting wide receiver would rather be on stage in a musical. (Think of Troy Bolton in the HSM movies. That would be a parallel the kids would understand!) Students might feel more comfortable sharing their secret desires after reading this book.
I agree, Tony was the most real character in the book. I think that Boy meets Boy def does open up discussion however, I feel as if it could be a summer reading book on a list that the student chooses or something they read on their own. Self sexuality has become questioned in teenagers, however I feel as if their generation would be a lot more open to gays then ours is.
ReplyDeleteI think this novel would be welcomed by parents in a in a Utopian society, or at least a more liberal one. I agree that it's important to push the envelope if you believe in the cause. Excellent points!
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