Two Parties, one Tux, and a Very Short film about the Grapes of Wrath

Goldman, Steven. Two Parties, one Tux, and a Very Short film about the Grapes of Wrath.
Bloomsbury see St. Martins 2008 307p 16.99 978-1-5990-271-5 hs

Mitch's junior year is anything but normal. An almost pornographic film, dating a beautiful girl, and his best friend announcing that he's homosexual, are all combined to create a humorous and realistic portrayal of teenage life. Poignant and laugh-out-loud funny, this story, about a semi-anonymous nerd who finds himself in the spotlight during his senior year of high school, despite its over long title, is a funny and insightful read. While there are the obligatory references to beer and sex, most are to demonstrate the hero's naïiveteé in such matters, with hilarious results. His quasi-pornographic claymation film, turned in lieu of a paper on The Grapes of Wrath is an example. The coming out of his best friend provides a well-resolved subplot, which will resonate with GLBT readers.

Reminiscent of Stephen Chbosky's The Perks of Being a Wallflower, but funnier, this angst and dry wit-laden slice of teenage life are guilty pleasures, and are sure to appeal to both guys and girls with equal enjoyment. Funny, realistic, tender with a satisfying ending. P.Naismith