It's a Boy!

by Scott Norton

In 1997, Scott and Brett had been in a relationship for 7 years. Brett's thirteen year old cousin, Joel, had lost his mother, his family had abandoned him and after being arrested a number of times, while trying to survive on his own, Joel was given one last chance by authorities - to live with his gay cousin. What followed was extraordinary. This typically homophobic tough 'street' kid discovered the only people who really cared for him were the last people he ever thought he could connect with. 11 suspensions, 2 expulsions, 2 arrests, an investigation into a serious felony, police interviews, learning disorders, drugs, late night chases and drug dealers at the door became everyday events. But through it all a remarkable thing happened; a little boy discovered he could trust people again and slowly found his voice and confidence. It doesn't end like a fairytale, but this is an inspirational story of one alternative family that did something extraordinary together.

Nook

First published July 10, 2011

About the author

After graduating from Syracuse University’s Newhouse School of Communications with a BA in writing and a minor in English Literature, I entered the family business where I wrote a ton of industrial scripts and ad copy and accumulated a great deal of experience in video, film and multimedia production. I also learned a fair bit about the importance of an office with a locking door and a pair of windows that overlook a roof. Happiness is often a handy escape route.