FREAK SHOW by James St. James

Billy Bloom has been forced to move to Florida for his Senior year of High School. His mom, a little on the bi-polar side, couldn’t take his flamboyant attitude toward life anymore. Billy is a self-proclaimed “Gender Obscurist”. A fabulously creative drag queen and a character that is resilient, lovable, and stronger than anyone ever would have imagined, including himself.

After enduring unspeakable torture and bullying from his shell-shocked classmates, Billy ends up in the hospital and has a month long recuperating period. During this time, Billy develops a deep friendship with Flip Kelly, the star and golden boy of the high school. Flip, the one who saved Billy from the angry mob of students and whisked him to the hospital. Flip, who is feeling the pressure to be the best from his family and the entire school. Flip, the guy Billy falls head-over-heels in love with.

Billy relates his experiences at Eisenhower Academy with brutal honesty and laugh-out-loud humor. His decision to run for Homecoming Queen proves to be a true test of his character, strength, and resolve. Billy’s message of tolerance and acceptance is important for everyone to hear. After all, “Gender is a choice, not a life sentence.”

No matter your gender persuasion, FREAK SHOW by James St. James is a delightful story of bravery, trust, love, and friendship. So, put on your tiara and platform shoes and settle in for a FABULOUS ride.

 

Luna by Julie Anne Peters

Regan’s brother, Liam, lives a double life and Regan is the only one who knows about it.  Liam assumes the role of “boy” by day and only reveals his/her true self at night.  During those moments of peace when she is trying on new outfits, experimenting with different wigs, and trying various makeup techniques she calls herself Luna.  Regan witnesses these moments because they always take place in Regan’s room. 

Regan’s own life suffers because of the time and effort it takes to keep Luna’s secret.  Regan doesn’t feel like she can invite friends over because Luna might emerge.  Regan had one slumber party and Luna couldn’t help but join in the dancing and toenail painting.  After that humiliation, Regan vowed never to have people over again.

Regan knows her life isn’t full.  She doesn’t have friends, doesn’t date, and her relationship with Luna is pretty much one-sided.  She is constantly concerned about Luna’s mood; always wanting to make everything okay.  When Regan meets Chris in Chemistry class things start to change for her though.  She realizes how much she is missing by only focusing on Luna.

Not only do we get to see Liam transform into Luna; we also get to see Regan transform into a confident young woman.  While the ending of the book is hopeful, getting there is sometimes heartbreaking.