Awake

by Tracey Pennington, Robin Reardon, Brian Katcher

A girl trapped in a war between her school, her church, and her own family. A boy facing the pain of injustice and prejudice in the same rush as new love. A town shocked by the death of a young person, while one alone knows why. A loner fighting a losing battle inside, terrified by society, longing for respect. Poignant, funny, tragic, uplifting-Awake brings together the voices of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender teens through four gifted authors, including Nancy Garden, author of the groundbreaking Annie on My Mind, who have donated their time and talents. The Trevor Project is the nation's leading organization dedicated to ending suicide among LGBTQ youth. All net publisher proceeds from the sale of this book will benefit The Trevor Project.

Genres: LGBT, Young Adult, Queer, Teen, Gay

218 pages, Paperback

First published June 11, 2011

Reviews

[Beckie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awake is an anthology I couldn't put down. The foreword alone makes me weep with joy. As a young adult author who works with teens across the country, I am ecstatic that so many of my young friends will have in Awake a book that mirrors who they are. The writing from these four stellar authors is fresh and poignant, and it ripped at my heart. I think reading reading Awake should be a requirement for every middle school/high school student in this country, because through understanding comes acceptance.
Beckie Weinhiemer, author of Converting Kate

[Amy · Rating 2 out of 5]

I'm just gonna review the first story here. I loved the detailed writing, and crisp details and real world issues. However, here's my problem: It went from Molly and Mari meeting to "Were engaged!" It was unrealistic and childish, in my opinion. I understand that it was a short story, but come on, people!

[Bradley · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a book of four short stories/novellas dealing with LGBT issues. The great Nancy Garden has a story in this anthology and that's worth picking it up. Plus, some of the proceeds from the sale of Awake go to The Trevor Project.

[Leslie Nicoll · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent anthology. All proceeds to The Trevor Project. More detailed review to follow.

[Elisa Rolle · Rating 5 out of 5]

2011 Rainbow Awards Honorable Mention (5* from at least 1 judge)

[Megan Anderson · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very interesting collection. The final story, "Pervert," almost had me in tears, and I loved Nancy Garden's story (more of a novella, as it was by far the longest piece). Recommended.

[Michael · Rating 4 out of 5]

An interesting collection of stories that made me think. The bully story made me sad, but not as sad as the summer love story. I just don't get the boxes set of Johnny Cash.