This novel is a coming-of-age story about a bisexual adolesent exploring the themes of idenity, love, and the nuances of sexuality. Set against the backdrop of the second half of the 20th century, this novel spans multiple decades, as its protagonist, Billy Abbott, invites readers into a life shaped by personal and societal conflicts. John Irving's skillful writing, often poignant in this story, describes the history of America's gay movement, especially the AIDS 1980's crisis. He often lightens some of the subject matter with the inclusion of bits of his unique humor.
Much of this novel occurs in the town of First Sister and is populated with a number of eccentric characters, three who are central to the plot. One is Billy's best friend-for-life, Elaine Hadley. Then there is the local librarian, Miss Frost, who is Billy's first crush, who is described as being small breasted, broad-shouldered, and having large hands. Another crush for both Billy and Elaine is the adolescent wrestler, Kittredge.
As with all the Irving novel's I have read, it is written in the first person with the protagonist as the narrator. This novel could be considered character-driven since the key characters are intricately drawn as to come alive in one's mind. This is not without its challenges, especially the description of the AIDS crisis and the loss of some of Billy's friends. Overall, not the best of Irving's works but still a meaningful read.
Much of this novel occurs in the town of First Sister and is populated with a number of eccentric characters, three who are central to the plot. One is Billy's best friend-for-life, Elaine Hadley. Then there is the local librarian, Miss Frost, who is Billy's first crush, who is described as being small breasted, broad-shouldered, and having large hands. Another crush for both Billy and Elaine is the adolescent wrestler, Kittredge.
As with all the Irving novel's I have read, it is written in the first person with the protagonist as the narrator. This novel could be considered character-driven since the key characters are intricately drawn as to come alive in one's mind. This is not without its challenges, especially the description of the AIDS crisis and the loss of some of Billy's friends. Overall, not the best of Irving's works but still a meaningful read.