Book Review: Boyfriends with Girlfriends by Alex Sanchez

 

Boyfriends with Girlfriends by Alex Sanchez

Publisher: Simon and Schuster Children's Publishing

Publish Date: April 19, 2011

Hardcover, 224 pages 
Fiction, Young Adult, Gay and Lesbian
 ISBN: 978-1416937739

My Review:
Why I read this: It sounded interesting and different.



My thoughts:  I found Boyfriends with Girlfriends to be an interesting look into the lives of teenagers who either were gay, or bi-sexual or not sure what they were.  I think it gave a somewhat heart-felt and honest look at what it's like to be a teenager and be in this situation.  I think it's good for books like this to be out there in the wake of some of the tragedies that have taken place in recent years especially over homosexuality.

I enjoyed the book and the look into the four main characters, Lance who is gay and is best friends with Allie who was straight but now she's not so sure, Sergio who is bi-sexual and Kimiko who is gay but in the closet to her family.  I liked the four different viewpoints and the honesty their situations brought to the table.  I wish the book could have been a little more in-depth but realize the author was limited.  However I think he did a good job putting as much as he could into the book to give you a real feel for the characters and their situations.  I really liked all four of the characters and there were qualities in each of them that I could relate to and if I could I know teenagers could.  Another thing I like is that the world these teenagers are in seems more accepting that what we see on the news.


The book reads quickly and is very enjoyable.  I recommend it with warnings that it does have some sexual situations in it.  Otherwise I think it is a frank look at the world of teenagers who don't conform to society's standards of sexuality.  Mr. Sanchez does not pull any punches.


My Rating: 4.0/5.0


About the Book:


Lance has always known he was gay, but he's never had a real boyfriend. Sergio is bisexual, but his only real relationship was with a girl. When the two of them meet, they have an instant connection--but will it be enough to overcome their differences?

Allie's been in a relationship with a guy for the last two years--but when she meets Kimiko, she can't get her out of her mind. Does this mean she's gay? Does it mean she's bi? Kimiko, falling hard for Allie, and finding it impossible to believe that a gorgeous girl like Allie would be into her, is willing to stick around and help Allie figure it out.

Boyfriends with Girlfriends is Alex Sanchez at his best, writing with a sensitive hand to portray four very real teens striving to find their places in the world--and with each other.


About the Author: 

Alex Sanchez received his master's degree in guidance and counseling from Old Dominion University. For many years he worked as a youth and family counselor. His novels include the Lambda Award-winning So Hard to Say, the Rainbow Boys trilogy, and Bait. When not writing, Alex tours the country talking with teens, librarians, and educators about the importance of teaching tolerance and self-acceptance. Originally from Mexico, Alex now lives in Thailand and Hollywood, Florida.

Website

FTC Information: I received this book from the publisher for an honest review.  I have Amazon links on my review pages but I do not make any money from these because of NC laws.  I put them solely for people to check out the books on a retail site.