A Boy's Own Story - Softcover

White, Edmund

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0452261236 ISBN 13: 9780452261235

Publisher: Plume, 1983

Synopsis

Originally published in 1982 as the first of Edmund White's trilogy of autobiographical novels, A Boy's Own Story became an instant classic for its pioneering portrayal of homosexuality. The audiobook's unnamed narrator, growing up during the 1950s, is beset by aloof parents, a cruel sister, and relentless mocking from his peers, compelling him to seek out works of art and literature as solace-and to uncover new relationships in the struggle to embrace his own sexuality. Lyrical and poignant, with powerful evocations of shame and yearning, this is an American literary treasure.

About this title

From the Inside Flap:

An instant classic upon its original publication, A Boy's Own Story is the first of Edmund White's highly acclaimed trilogy of autobiographical novels that brilliantly evoke a young man's coming of age and document American gay life through the last forty years.

The nameless narrator in this deeply affecting work reminisces about growing up in the 1950s with emotionally aloof, divorced parents, an unrelenting sister, and the schoolmates who taunt him. He finds consolation in literature and his fantastic imagination. Eager to cultivate intimate, enduring friendships, he becomes aware of his yearning to be loved by men, and struggles with the guilt and shame of accepting who he is. Written with lyrical delicacy and extraordinary power, A Boy's Own Story is a triumph.

From the Back Cover:

"With A Boy's Own Story American literature is larger by one classic novel." --The Washington Post Book World

"Every so often a novel comes along that is so ambitious in its intention and so confident of its voice that it reminds us what a singular and potent thing a novel can be. One of these is A Boy's Own Story." --San Francisco Chronicle

"Edmund White has crossed J. D. Salinger with Oscar Wilde to create an extraordinary novel." --The New York Times Book Review

About this edition

• Publisher: Plume
• Publication date: 1983
• ISBN 10: 0452261236
• ISBN 13: 9780452261235
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 218