Book Title: A Secret Edge
Author: Robin Reardon
Publisher: Kensington
Genre: Drama, Gay, Romance, Ethnic
Reading Recommendation: *****
Recommended Age: 16+
Jason Peele is a junior in high school who is just coming to terms with his identity as a gay male. When he meets Raj, a fellow track team member, sparks fly. In the early stages of their romance, Raj shares customs of his Indian background and talks with Jason about the non-violent teachings of Mahatma Gandi. Their relationship comes to a dramatic end when Raj discovers the switchblade Jason secretly carries with him to defend against bullies. Can Jason ever win Raj’s affection back? Will Jason keep his “secret edge?”
This is an excellent novel because it handles the coming out process, relationship issues, bullies, and the angst all of these can cause. The author does an excellent job of building suspense while at the same time exploring complex emotional and ethical issues that could speak to any teen, gay or straight. Robin Reardon has written a compelling story that avoids stereotypes and clichés.
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