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The Broom Closet Stories #1
The Boy Who Couldn't Fly Straight
Will Grace and her evil coven continue kidnapping teenagers in the greater Seattle area, or will the local witches, determined to live in peace and secrecy, be able to stop them?
Closeted high school sophomore Charlie Creevey and his mother Elizabeth live in the shadows of the Sierra Nevada Foothills, where they tend to their fruit orchards and vegetable gardens, generally keeping to themselves. That is, until one afternoon in late August, when a German shepherd crashes through their living room window and demands that the boy be handed over.
Barely escaping with their lives, mother and son flee California and head to Seattle, where Charlie discovers the secret Elizabeth has been keeping from him his entire life: that he hails from a family of witches, and will soon be initiated into the craft.
Charlie moves in with an aunt and an uncle he barely knows, then has to adjust to a new school and a new life. Soon after, the coven strikes again, barely failing to capture him.
At the same time, Charlie tries to deny that his feelings for popular high school junior Diego Ramirez have become something more than friendship. He learns the hard way that ignoring what his heart wants obstructs his development as a witch, making him defenseless against Grace and her growing threat.
Will Charlie refuse to accept who he is, or will he acknowledge the truth, in order to stay alive and protect the people he loves?
Closeted high school sophomore Charlie Creevey and his mother Elizabeth live in the shadows of the Sierra Nevada Foothills, where they tend to their fruit orchards and vegetable gardens, generally keeping to themselves. That is, until one afternoon in late August, when a German shepherd crashes through their living room window and demands that the boy be handed over.
Barely escaping with their lives, mother and son flee California and head to Seattle, where Charlie discovers the secret Elizabeth has been keeping from him his entire life: that he hails from a family of witches, and will soon be initiated into the craft.
Charlie moves in with an aunt and an uncle he barely knows, then has to adjust to a new school and a new life. Soon after, the coven strikes again, barely failing to capture him.
At the same time, Charlie tries to deny that his feelings for popular high school junior Diego Ramirez have become something more than friendship. He learns the hard way that ignoring what his heart wants obstructs his development as a witch, making him defenseless against Grace and her growing threat.
Will Charlie refuse to accept who he is, or will he acknowledge the truth, in order to stay alive and protect the people he loves?
300 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 15, 2013
52 people are currently reading
550 people want to read
About the author
Jeff Jacobson
4 books18 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Jeff Jacobson (born 1968) took Asian Studies classes in college and learned Mandarin Chinese. During his senior year he studied in 10 different Asian countries, and after his graduation he went on to live in Taiwan for two years, broadening his knowledge of Mandarin Chinese.
From his website:
In 1994, Jeff moved to California to begin a master’s program in Chinese translation and interpretation, and also joined a men’s group. Three months later he realized two things: that he was much more interested in community-based coaching than he was in being an interpreter, and that it was finally time to come out of the closet.
Soon afterward he learned about the wider field of coaching as a profession, and became a certified coach, as well as a faculty member for the Coaches Training.
Jeff Jacobson (born 1968) took Asian Studies classes in college and learned Mandarin Chinese. During his senior year he studied in 10 different Asian countries, and after his graduation he went on to live in Taiwan for two years, broadening his knowledge of Mandarin Chinese.
From his website:
In 1994, Jeff moved to California to begin a master’s program in Chinese translation and interpretation, and also joined a men’s group. Three months later he realized two things: that he was much more interested in community-based coaching than he was in being an interpreter, and that it was finally time to come out of the closet.
Soon afterward he learned about the wider field of coaching as a profession, and became a certified coach, as well as a faculty member for the Coaches Training.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
December 15, 2024
4.5 stars ...
Ooooo ...
this was super fun!
Excited to continue
this series!! 👍😁👍
Ooooo ...
this was super fun!
Excited to continue
this series!! 👍😁👍
August 4, 2014
The Boy Who Couldn’t Fly Straight
By Jeff Jacobson
Four stars
Except for the fact that I really hated the cliff-hanger ending, this was a brilliant book.
Five stars except for the very last paragraph.
This is the Harry Potter book that every gay teenager wished J.K. Rowling had written. It’s sure the book I wish she had written (and I wish I’d been a teenager instead of middle-aged when I read “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone”).
It is edgier, faster, less whimsical, and very much an American story. There are many, probably intentional, parallels with the Hogwarts books, but they are there simply to acknowledge that we’re dealing with teenagers and magic. It is not a copy, or even an homage to Rowling’s work. It is unique and creative and all its own thing—the same premise in a very different world with a very different point of view. Here we have a more realistic approach to witches and ordinary folks and how their worlds intertwine.
Charlie Creevey is a character that every parent of a teenager (including me) will recognize; a character that every teenager dealing with coming out and accepting who they are (including me, 40 years ago) will understand.
There is a denseness to the writing that outshines Rowling’s sometimes sloppy romanticism; there is an unromantic quality to the narrative that, while disappointing in some respects (after all, I read gay romance novels for a reason!), gives the book an authentic feel that works to its advantage.
While I am pissed at the decision Jacobson made to end the book on just that particular cliff-hanger, I get his point. It effectively forces everyone to wait for and buy the next book. But I think cliff-hangers are a cheat. Rowling (oh, come on, everyone will compare it, so back off) always ended her story cleanly, while never losing sight of the traumas to come. This ending was not necessary. I would have bought the next book anyway. But now I’ll buy it grudgingly, because I have no choice. I got tricked into buying it and I resent that fact.
Actually, the book is full of powerful moments of free-will and making choices. Charlie’s character is shaped by the choices he makes as he comes into his own over the course of the action. Jacobson should have had faith in his readers and their free-will.
We would have bought the next book anyway.
By Jeff Jacobson
Four stars
Except for the fact that I really hated the cliff-hanger ending, this was a brilliant book.
Five stars except for the very last paragraph.
This is the Harry Potter book that every gay teenager wished J.K. Rowling had written. It’s sure the book I wish she had written (and I wish I’d been a teenager instead of middle-aged when I read “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone”).
It is edgier, faster, less whimsical, and very much an American story. There are many, probably intentional, parallels with the Hogwarts books, but they are there simply to acknowledge that we’re dealing with teenagers and magic. It is not a copy, or even an homage to Rowling’s work. It is unique and creative and all its own thing—the same premise in a very different world with a very different point of view. Here we have a more realistic approach to witches and ordinary folks and how their worlds intertwine.
Charlie Creevey is a character that every parent of a teenager (including me) will recognize; a character that every teenager dealing with coming out and accepting who they are (including me, 40 years ago) will understand.
There is a denseness to the writing that outshines Rowling’s sometimes sloppy romanticism; there is an unromantic quality to the narrative that, while disappointing in some respects (after all, I read gay romance novels for a reason!), gives the book an authentic feel that works to its advantage.
While I am pissed at the decision Jacobson made to end the book on just that particular cliff-hanger, I get his point. It effectively forces everyone to wait for and buy the next book. But I think cliff-hangers are a cheat. Rowling (oh, come on, everyone will compare it, so back off) always ended her story cleanly, while never losing sight of the traumas to come. This ending was not necessary. I would have bought the next book anyway. But now I’ll buy it grudgingly, because I have no choice. I got tricked into buying it and I resent that fact.
Actually, the book is full of powerful moments of free-will and making choices. Charlie’s character is shaped by the choices he makes as he comes into his own over the course of the action. Jacobson should have had faith in his readers and their free-will.
We would have bought the next book anyway.
September 4, 2014
While I'll hesitate to say it is a 'gay' Harry Potter type book, it sort of is. A bit edgier and a little more realistic in that the separation between the mundane and the witching world is intertwined rather than the strong division that was prevalent in Rowling's books.
Jacobson keeps it crisp and moving along. He doesn't dawdle on elements too much - at times this proved to be a bit frustrating. Also the fact that Charlie seemed to have very antiquated ideas of what a gay person would be like (girly clothing seemed to be involved in his head) yet even with his limited access to media under his mother's austere lifestyle when they were in hiding, he still would have been exposed to quite a bit more than what the book leads me to believe. This was the sole element that repeatedly took me out of the moment.
Other than that it was a well crafted tale. The book leaves it opened ended for a series (which Jacobson intimates) and I am sure we haven't seen the last of Grace the red-haired baddie from book one. After all, it is clear that they have Charlies beloved Diego in their grasp now in the epilogue.
The only other thing that rankles me, thought it is no fault of Jacobson and more of an overall observation is that the YA genre (and particularly the GLBTQ variety) tends to infantilize the romance elements of YA books (limiting it to kissing only and some light petting) when we ALL know that is the furthest from where hormonally charged teenaged boys would be in real life. Again, not specific draw against TBWCFS, but still another point that had me tsk-tsk-tsking over that missed or unrealistic element.
I get that Diego is out and more forceful, but Charlie's character seemed a bit too reticent. It strained credibility for me. Yes, I get that we want to see him grow and evolve, but I am not sure that this path was spot on with how modern teenaged boys really are in this era of internet and it's plethora of abundant information. That part of the story seemed a bit dated for being a 'in the now' sort of tale.
Doesn't dissuade me from picking up volume 2 but just a general observation. I believe Diego's actions far more than I do Charlies long drawn out am I or am I not... with the amount of kissing going on he'd have to be a fairly dim bulb not to catch on that yeah, kid, ya are.
Looking forward to the next in the series. Despite my misgivings (that I've mentioned above) I strongly recommend the book. It's a fun romp and a welcome addition to the witching world of literature. We have our gay HP, now let's see what the kid can do.
Jacobson keeps it crisp and moving along. He doesn't dawdle on elements too much - at times this proved to be a bit frustrating. Also the fact that Charlie seemed to have very antiquated ideas of what a gay person would be like (girly clothing seemed to be involved in his head) yet even with his limited access to media under his mother's austere lifestyle when they were in hiding, he still would have been exposed to quite a bit more than what the book leads me to believe. This was the sole element that repeatedly took me out of the moment.
Other than that it was a well crafted tale. The book leaves it opened ended for a series (which Jacobson intimates) and I am sure we haven't seen the last of Grace the red-haired baddie from book one. After all, it is clear that they have Charlies beloved Diego in their grasp now in the epilogue.
The only other thing that rankles me, thought it is no fault of Jacobson and more of an overall observation is that the YA genre (and particularly the GLBTQ variety) tends to infantilize the romance elements of YA books (limiting it to kissing only and some light petting) when we ALL know that is the furthest from where hormonally charged teenaged boys would be in real life. Again, not specific draw against TBWCFS, but still another point that had me tsk-tsk-tsking over that missed or unrealistic element.
I get that Diego is out and more forceful, but Charlie's character seemed a bit too reticent. It strained credibility for me. Yes, I get that we want to see him grow and evolve, but I am not sure that this path was spot on with how modern teenaged boys really are in this era of internet and it's plethora of abundant information. That part of the story seemed a bit dated for being a 'in the now' sort of tale.
Doesn't dissuade me from picking up volume 2 but just a general observation. I believe Diego's actions far more than I do Charlies long drawn out am I or am I not... with the amount of kissing going on he'd have to be a fairly dim bulb not to catch on that yeah, kid, ya are.
Looking forward to the next in the series. Despite my misgivings (that I've mentioned above) I strongly recommend the book. It's a fun romp and a welcome addition to the witching world of literature. We have our gay HP, now let's see what the kid can do.
November 17, 2013
I know I haven't posted in a while, after the last series I read I definitely was drained and needed a breather. Ijust finished a book and I wanted to post a review for it while it's fresh. This book was an excellent read. Well worth the money. The main character felt very real to me and his sexual orientation really and honestly took a backseat to the story. It was there and he was dealing with it in a very realistic way but that wasn't the only thin going on in his busy life. It makes me feel as if people can be seen for more than who they choose to love. There was a lot of depth to Charlie and I'm excited to read more about his journey. I felt like the author did a fantastic job and it is a must buy. I don't want to give the book away so you will just have to read it. Jeff, you have cemented another fan for sure! Way to go!
May 31, 2019
Listened as audiobook.
I had higher hopes for this, but sadly was disappointed.
The story center around a 16 year old boy, Charlie, who grows up on farm with his single mother, somewhat isolated from the world and peacefully unaware of the fact that's he's gay and the fact that he comes from a line of witches. It's supposed to be a coming of age, figuring out his sexuality, figuring out his place in the world type tale. On top of that, you throw in the Harry Potter-esque theme of "You're a witch, Charlie! I'm a what?" along with "mysterious bad guys" out to get him.
Sounds appealing, right?
Yeah, turned out not so much (for me anyway).
So here are my gripes:
I know this is meant for a young adult audience, but the main character was often portrayed behaving and speaking in ways that would be more in line with a 9 year old child rather than a 16 year old boy, which I found somewhat jarring at times.
Also, I didn't feel like the paranormal world, let alone the overall plot, was very well developed. We are given all these random pieces of information about this witch world, but I never felt immersed in the society, never felt that I understood its members or rules. There are people out there who describe this book as "a gay Harry Potter" but I would have to strongly disagree. The only thing this book has in common with Harry Potter is the fact that the main character grew up knowing nothing about magic, then found out "I'm a witch" all of a sudden. The similarity ends there. There was absolutely no feeling of fantasy or magic for me in reading this book because frankly, the fantasy world and overall plot just weren't developed well enough.
Now on to the "bad guys" plot line. There are several random run-ins with these "bad witches" as well as a few short scenes of the "bad guys" doing "bad things" to other people. But there is absolutely no explanation of who these "bad guys" are, what they want, why they try to kidnap Charlie, or what their purpose is in the larger scheme of things except as a poorly constructed tool to move the main character to a different city and discovering his witch heritage.
To top it off, the book ends on a very abrupt note. I couldn't even call it a cliffhanger because it didn't stop in the middle of any particular dramatic scene. It's almost like the book just stops in the middle of a sentence. Or like the the two parts were originally just one book and they randomly split it up in the middle. The book ends so randomly that I actually thought there was something wrong with my copy, that it didn't download properly and I was missing a piece or something. It's very bizarre.
Bottom Line: not going to be reading again
I had higher hopes for this, but sadly was disappointed.
The story center around a 16 year old boy, Charlie, who grows up on farm with his single mother, somewhat isolated from the world and peacefully unaware of the fact that's he's gay and the fact that he comes from a line of witches. It's supposed to be a coming of age, figuring out his sexuality, figuring out his place in the world type tale. On top of that, you throw in the Harry Potter-esque theme of "You're a witch, Charlie! I'm a what?" along with "mysterious bad guys" out to get him.
Sounds appealing, right?
Yeah, turned out not so much (for me anyway).
So here are my gripes:
I know this is meant for a young adult audience, but the main character was often portrayed behaving and speaking in ways that would be more in line with a 9 year old child rather than a 16 year old boy, which I found somewhat jarring at times.
Also, I didn't feel like the paranormal world, let alone the overall plot, was very well developed. We are given all these random pieces of information about this witch world, but I never felt immersed in the society, never felt that I understood its members or rules. There are people out there who describe this book as "a gay Harry Potter" but I would have to strongly disagree. The only thing this book has in common with Harry Potter is the fact that the main character grew up knowing nothing about magic, then found out "I'm a witch" all of a sudden. The similarity ends there. There was absolutely no feeling of fantasy or magic for me in reading this book because frankly, the fantasy world and overall plot just weren't developed well enough.
Now on to the "bad guys" plot line. There are several random run-ins with these "bad witches" as well as a few short scenes of the "bad guys" doing "bad things" to other people. But there is absolutely no explanation of who these "bad guys" are, what they want, why they try to kidnap Charlie, or what their purpose is in the larger scheme of things except as a poorly constructed tool to move the main character to a different city and discovering his witch heritage.
To top it off, the book ends on a very abrupt note. I couldn't even call it a cliffhanger because it didn't stop in the middle of any particular dramatic scene. It's almost like the book just stops in the middle of a sentence. Or like the the two parts were originally just one book and they randomly split it up in the middle. The book ends so randomly that I actually thought there was something wrong with my copy, that it didn't download properly and I was missing a piece or something. It's very bizarre.
Bottom Line: not going to be reading again
January 15, 2018
I had I high hopes for this book and it was doing well for a bit tho it was a slow burn. The magic system needs work seems to lack a solid foundation so when characters talked about it they where unnecessarily vague to the point of being annoying.
The plot line was building slowly but surely though it lacked action the character development was good and I felt it was heading in a good direction taking its time to find itself and then it just ended... it ends so abruptly I thought part of the audiobook had corrupted in the download. I can't even call it a cliffhanger just banal to the point of being jarring. I swear author must have had one book the publisher decided was to long for the intended audience so they cut it in half arbitrarily leaving this book with out the proper presence of a villain a climax or a conclusion.
The plot line was building slowly but surely though it lacked action the character development was good and I felt it was heading in a good direction taking its time to find itself and then it just ended... it ends so abruptly I thought part of the audiobook had corrupted in the download. I can't even call it a cliffhanger just banal to the point of being jarring. I swear author must have had one book the publisher decided was to long for the intended audience so they cut it in half arbitrarily leaving this book with out the proper presence of a villain a climax or a conclusion.
August 21, 2015
This book I thought it was really great storytelling he got a good sense of who the characters were and what they wanted he also got to see magic presented a new interesting style. I like that the main character slowly came into his understanding of himself and that it wasn't like a romance everything just rushes to quickly. This book would definitely be recommend it to anyone who likes Harry Potter or Unnatural or any other supernatural/ magic /fantasy novels.
February 9, 2020
Good book. Only negative is that it just ends. Need to continue o. To sequel to finish the story. I would have enjoyed it better if this story had finished and the sequel was an entirely separate adventure.
January 16, 2016
Can't wait for the second book in the series!
October 1, 2015
Wow
This was perfect. I'm still at a loss of words for the ending. I hope to read more from this author. Truly a brilliant piece of literature.
This was perfect. I'm still at a loss of words for the ending. I hope to read more from this author. Truly a brilliant piece of literature.
April 23, 2020
This is a very well written story with highly visual dialog and narrative. Also a disappointing ending. This book screams for a sequel though there was no mention at the end of the book of one coming.
(Update: ok, there apparently IS a sequel)
What’s unique about this story is the angst the MC goes through learning of his legacy and his decision to follow a magical path. Vampire stories, werewolf stories and superhero stories don’t do that. The MC in those stories have their alternate lives thrust upon them unwillingly or are born with their full fledged abilities.
I’m rating the book 5 stars but really 4 1/2 because of the cliffhanger ending.
(Update: ok, there apparently IS a sequel)
What’s unique about this story is the angst the MC goes through learning of his legacy and his decision to follow a magical path. Vampire stories, werewolf stories and superhero stories don’t do that. The MC in those stories have their alternate lives thrust upon them unwillingly or are born with their full fledged abilities.
I’m rating the book 5 stars but really 4 1/2 because of the cliffhanger ending.
October 15, 2015
(FROM MY BLOG) Charlie is 15 years old. He lives a quiet, almost reclusive life just outside a small town in the California Sierra foothills. He goes to school, he does his homework, he works hard helping Elizabeth, his young single mother, raise and harvest the vegetables that end up on their dinner table. His family is poor and his social life is limited, but he feels reasonably happy and content.
Then one day, a large dog appears at the door and demands, in good English, "Give me the boy, Elizabeth." Elizabeth refuses, a fight ensues, and mother and son flee north to Seattle.
Charlie -- understandably, in a state of shock -- quickly finds himself living with an aunt and uncle in a large, upper middle class home in West Seattle, near Alki point with views of the Sound and of the coming and going of the ferries. He is enrolled in "Puget Academy," a private (fictitious) West Seattle school, where, although excruciatingly shy, he is quickly befriended by Diego, a popular student leader.
Within the first week or two of his arrival in Seattle, he discovers two upsetting facts about himself. He may be gay. And he is definitely a witch.
In The Boy Who Couldn't Fly Straight, Seattle native Jeff Jacobson has written an original and absorbing fantasy novel in a powerfully evoked Pacific Northwest setting. Charlie learns that "the community" of witches exists everywhere, in every nation, and that he himself is a witch's son. The community consists mainly of good men and women who simply want to live inconspicuously, keeping their powers to themselves, without bothering or being bothered by others.
But, as in every group, there are bad apples who use their unusual abilities for evil, and who seek ways to increase their power at the expense of others.
Jacobson's writing is forceful and absorbing. His main characters are well fleshed out -- not cardboard heroes and villains -- and his descriptions of the natural surroundings in the Northwest are vivid and help carry the plot. The author himself may well be a "foodie," because meals are described in mouth-watering detail.
Similarities to the Harry Potter books are obvious. But, to my mind, Jacobson's writing is richer and more sophisticated. While the Harry Potter saga is a rollicking good adventure, it tends to be a bit cartoonish. Jacobson's book, on the other hand, entices the reader into almost believing that witches could well exist. And not only exist, but exist all around us, right here in Seattle -- in West Seattle, Madison Park, Seward Park, Belltown, and the Pike Place Market (all of which serve as locales for the book's action).
Charlie's romance with his school classmate -- the relationship between Diego and Charlie teeters for some time between love and friendship -- is serious to the boys, and is treated seriously, but described lightly and with restraint. This is more an adventure story than a romance, and Charlie's eventual coming out seems to serve primarily as an occasion for Charlie, a novice witch, to demonstrate his willingness -- despite his shyness -- to be completely honest, honest with others, certainly, but especially honest with himself.
The plot seems to slow a bit around the half-way point, as Charlie is mastering the mumbo jumbo of how to be a witch. But we do learn with some excitement during these sections how Charlie learns to fly on a broom (yes, despite cell phones, witches aren't entirely creatures of the 21st century). We are told of the aerodynamic qualities of different types of woods, the way in which the "ignition" spell must be recited (not just spoken, but "felt), how to go up and down, steer left and right, and how to handle the occasional air pocket.
A nighttime training flight by Charlie and his aunt out over Elliot Bay and the Sound, with a quiet broom landing for a picnic on Blake Island, appears breathtakingly idyllic. I don't recall Harry Potter's quidditch lessons being described as lovingly, or in such realistic detail.
The final quarter of the novel races forward faster and faster, as Charlie and his adult friends within the witch "community" face life and death dangers to themselves, to other witches and their children, and to earth itself. Charlie is forced to overcome not only his shyness, but his own normal teenage angst, angst that feeds upon and enhances psychic confusion from his encounters with his own newly awakened witchcraft powers and his ability to sense the evil in the minds of his enemies. The plot reaches a temporary resolution at the novel's conclusion, but the scene has clearly been set for a sequel already being written.
This YA book is appropriate for any kid in middle school or older -- especially for those who find themselves tongue-tied with shyness, or who suspect they might be gay. Or, of course, for those kids who wonder if they might be witches. Also appropriate for all you adults who secretly read and loved your children's Harry Potter books whenever the kids were away from the house.
Then one day, a large dog appears at the door and demands, in good English, "Give me the boy, Elizabeth." Elizabeth refuses, a fight ensues, and mother and son flee north to Seattle.
Charlie -- understandably, in a state of shock -- quickly finds himself living with an aunt and uncle in a large, upper middle class home in West Seattle, near Alki point with views of the Sound and of the coming and going of the ferries. He is enrolled in "Puget Academy," a private (fictitious) West Seattle school, where, although excruciatingly shy, he is quickly befriended by Diego, a popular student leader.
Within the first week or two of his arrival in Seattle, he discovers two upsetting facts about himself. He may be gay. And he is definitely a witch.
In The Boy Who Couldn't Fly Straight, Seattle native Jeff Jacobson has written an original and absorbing fantasy novel in a powerfully evoked Pacific Northwest setting. Charlie learns that "the community" of witches exists everywhere, in every nation, and that he himself is a witch's son. The community consists mainly of good men and women who simply want to live inconspicuously, keeping their powers to themselves, without bothering or being bothered by others.
But, as in every group, there are bad apples who use their unusual abilities for evil, and who seek ways to increase their power at the expense of others.
Jacobson's writing is forceful and absorbing. His main characters are well fleshed out -- not cardboard heroes and villains -- and his descriptions of the natural surroundings in the Northwest are vivid and help carry the plot. The author himself may well be a "foodie," because meals are described in mouth-watering detail.
Similarities to the Harry Potter books are obvious. But, to my mind, Jacobson's writing is richer and more sophisticated. While the Harry Potter saga is a rollicking good adventure, it tends to be a bit cartoonish. Jacobson's book, on the other hand, entices the reader into almost believing that witches could well exist. And not only exist, but exist all around us, right here in Seattle -- in West Seattle, Madison Park, Seward Park, Belltown, and the Pike Place Market (all of which serve as locales for the book's action).
Charlie's romance with his school classmate -- the relationship between Diego and Charlie teeters for some time between love and friendship -- is serious to the boys, and is treated seriously, but described lightly and with restraint. This is more an adventure story than a romance, and Charlie's eventual coming out seems to serve primarily as an occasion for Charlie, a novice witch, to demonstrate his willingness -- despite his shyness -- to be completely honest, honest with others, certainly, but especially honest with himself.
The plot seems to slow a bit around the half-way point, as Charlie is mastering the mumbo jumbo of how to be a witch. But we do learn with some excitement during these sections how Charlie learns to fly on a broom (yes, despite cell phones, witches aren't entirely creatures of the 21st century). We are told of the aerodynamic qualities of different types of woods, the way in which the "ignition" spell must be recited (not just spoken, but "felt), how to go up and down, steer left and right, and how to handle the occasional air pocket.
A nighttime training flight by Charlie and his aunt out over Elliot Bay and the Sound, with a quiet broom landing for a picnic on Blake Island, appears breathtakingly idyllic. I don't recall Harry Potter's quidditch lessons being described as lovingly, or in such realistic detail.
The final quarter of the novel races forward faster and faster, as Charlie and his adult friends within the witch "community" face life and death dangers to themselves, to other witches and their children, and to earth itself. Charlie is forced to overcome not only his shyness, but his own normal teenage angst, angst that feeds upon and enhances psychic confusion from his encounters with his own newly awakened witchcraft powers and his ability to sense the evil in the minds of his enemies. The plot reaches a temporary resolution at the novel's conclusion, but the scene has clearly been set for a sequel already being written.
This YA book is appropriate for any kid in middle school or older -- especially for those who find themselves tongue-tied with shyness, or who suspect they might be gay. Or, of course, for those kids who wonder if they might be witches. Also appropriate for all you adults who secretly read and loved your children's Harry Potter books whenever the kids were away from the house.
August 19, 2018
Cute, well-meaning, full of heart, with a sweet, soft-boy protagonist whom I really liked... but ultimately not a very well written or plotted or crafted book. I very very very much wanted to like it! But the weird dissonance in tone, the shoddy character voices, the confusing and regrettably bad world-building... they all left me cold.
I will probably read the second book in the series, since this one ended so abruptly, and I feel like I want to give this a second chance. But my hopes aren't very high.
I will probably read the second book in the series, since this one ended so abruptly, and I feel like I want to give this a second chance. But my hopes aren't very high.
June 19, 2017
The Boy Who Couldn't Fly Straight has been sitting on my Kindle for almost 6 months. I just never really felt like diving into it. But lately, every time I go to borrow a new Kindle Unlimited title Amazon will sort of subtly say "Why don't you just return this one? You'll never read it. Let it go!" and over the weekend the guilt got to be too much.
So, I finally read this book. And I loved it.
I loved the characters, I enjoyed the author’s writing and the story, and I really hope this series isn’t over yet.
Charlie’s character was so realistic for me. He wasn’t a Bella Swan, moving to a new town and suddenly loved by all for his awkwardness and endearing flaws. He wasn’t a Harry Potter, thrust into the wizarding world and taking to it naturally. He was shy, and he had trouble expressing himself sometimes, and he felt overwhelmed by life. He did frustrate me at certain points – I just wanted to reach in and say “talk to them, Charlie!”, but it’s probably more realistic for him to be introspective as a teenager.
I really liked the dynamics in Charlie’s family, and how they changed and developed over the course of the story. I loved Randall! Supportive parental figures are my jam, so Randall and Beverly were my favourite characters.
The author did a good job of bringing this world to life. Charlie learned things bit by bit, and so we did too. I don’t read fantasy often, so this book did seem slower than I am used to. I don’t think this was an issue with pacing, though – I have just gotten into a habit of reading books where the romance is the main plot, and the romance in this was more of a sub-plot.
Speaking of romance, I really appreciate that this wasn’t a sexy book. For me, YA books have to be a good balance between realistic (the characters are teenagers) and chaste (the characters are teenagers). I’m probably a bit of a prude that way, but I just don’t want to feel pervy while reading about characters who are underage. Also, Charlie was a shy character, and spent much of the book coming to terms with himself and his sexuality. It wouldn’t have made much sense for him to suddenly be really bold and uninhibited.
I had a few issues, but they weren’t enough to change my opinion of the book. I would have liked for Charlie to have made a few more friends his own age, but I understand that it wasn’t a focus for him. And I really would’ve liked for there to have been a resolution to the bullying problem. Oh, and what was the deal with Tony? His character was just… strange.
All in all, while there were some loose ends and some things were lacking, I enjoyed it and am glad to have read it. I certainly won’t be forgetting it any time soon!
So, I finally read this book. And I loved it.
I loved the characters, I enjoyed the author’s writing and the story, and I really hope this series isn’t over yet.
Charlie’s character was so realistic for me. He wasn’t a Bella Swan, moving to a new town and suddenly loved by all for his awkwardness and endearing flaws. He wasn’t a Harry Potter, thrust into the wizarding world and taking to it naturally. He was shy, and he had trouble expressing himself sometimes, and he felt overwhelmed by life. He did frustrate me at certain points – I just wanted to reach in and say “talk to them, Charlie!”, but it’s probably more realistic for him to be introspective as a teenager.
I really liked the dynamics in Charlie’s family, and how they changed and developed over the course of the story. I loved Randall! Supportive parental figures are my jam, so Randall and Beverly were my favourite characters.
The author did a good job of bringing this world to life. Charlie learned things bit by bit, and so we did too. I don’t read fantasy often, so this book did seem slower than I am used to. I don’t think this was an issue with pacing, though – I have just gotten into a habit of reading books where the romance is the main plot, and the romance in this was more of a sub-plot.
Speaking of romance, I really appreciate that this wasn’t a sexy book. For me, YA books have to be a good balance between realistic (the characters are teenagers) and chaste (the characters are teenagers). I’m probably a bit of a prude that way, but I just don’t want to feel pervy while reading about characters who are underage. Also, Charlie was a shy character, and spent much of the book coming to terms with himself and his sexuality. It wouldn’t have made much sense for him to suddenly be really bold and uninhibited.
I had a few issues, but they weren’t enough to change my opinion of the book. I would have liked for Charlie to have made a few more friends his own age, but I understand that it wasn’t a focus for him. And I really would’ve liked for there to have been a resolution to the bullying problem. Oh, and what was the deal with Tony? His character was just… strange.
All in all, while there were some loose ends and some things were lacking, I enjoyed it and am glad to have read it. I certainly won’t be forgetting it any time soon!
January 5, 2015
If one takes into account that this is a debut novel from and indie author, any criticism has to be toned down as this fairly long M/M fantasy novel, the first in a series, has really much to recommend itself.
While Rowling's "Potter" series is a clear influence, Mr Jacobson manages to deliver an original, interesting plot with a rich cast of main characters.
Side characters, which are many and relevant for the story, are not as well outlined and that betrays the author's lack of experience: if one fails to remember the actions of a side character at the end of the book, it usually means that that character lacks distinctive personality.
One also may feel that Charlie's self hatred/homophobia is far too exaggerated and, most of all, unjustified as he does not appear to have grown up in such a bigoted context.
Other sides of his development as a person betray some in depth research on the part of the author and do not fail to move the reader.
Writing is always fluid and professional but rhythm falters here and there. The classical "I couldn't put this book down" does not apply here, as there are several slow moments: nothing too bad or embarassing but a competent editor might suggest some useful revisions.
I hated the epilogue as it introduces an obnoxious cliffhanger: it was already more than clear that Charlie and Grace were not done yet and there was no need for such an epilogue whose content should have been moved to the beginning of the second instalment.
There are typos and grammar mistakes: they are not disruptive but should be removed with next revision.
While Rowling's "Potter" series is a clear influence, Mr Jacobson manages to deliver an original, interesting plot with a rich cast of main characters.
Side characters, which are many and relevant for the story, are not as well outlined and that betrays the author's lack of experience: if one fails to remember the actions of a side character at the end of the book, it usually means that that character lacks distinctive personality.
One also may feel that Charlie's self hatred/homophobia is far too exaggerated and, most of all, unjustified as he does not appear to have grown up in such a bigoted context.
Other sides of his development as a person betray some in depth research on the part of the author and do not fail to move the reader.
Writing is always fluid and professional but rhythm falters here and there. The classical "I couldn't put this book down" does not apply here, as there are several slow moments: nothing too bad or embarassing but a competent editor might suggest some useful revisions.
I hated the epilogue as it introduces an obnoxious cliffhanger: it was already more than clear that Charlie and Grace were not done yet and there was no need for such an epilogue whose content should have been moved to the beginning of the second instalment.
There are typos and grammar mistakes: they are not disruptive but should be removed with next revision.
March 21, 2014
This is a great take on a much used story. The main character, Charlie, is more than fully developed. He becomes a friend of the reader. And you are taken for one wild ride. The story never drags, never loses direction and always remains exciting and entertaining. I'm sorry that the entire novel couldn't be contained in one book, since now I must wait for books two and three. I'm an impatient person, and now I'm sorry I read book one. I should have waited for the full trilogy. Another thing, the price. To be sureI, this is worth a lot more than the $2.99 kindle price. I'm surprised that it didn't go for much more, considering the length and the amount of research and time the author obviously put into this novel. It comes over as a gay Harry Potter, but I think that's also a poor comparison. I'm not a Harry Potter fan, and consider it too juvenile for my taste. That is not the case here. The author has crafted a parallel universe in fiction that I'm sure I never expected to find.
My only problem with this book is that it needs better editing and proof reading. I found numerous errors that stood out, although they did not detract from my overall enjoyment of the work. THIS IS DEFINITELY A MUST READ FOR ALL AGES.
My only problem with this book is that it needs better editing and proof reading. I found numerous errors that stood out, although they did not detract from my overall enjoyment of the work. THIS IS DEFINITELY A MUST READ FOR ALL AGES.
February 15, 2016
I find it hard to believe that this is a debut novel! It's absolutely amazing and I found myself glued to the story. It's long, but it never felt like it dragged and every bit seemed necessary.
Though I found it being promoted in a facebook MM romance group, there really isn't a huge amount of romance in this first book of what I found out will be a trilogy. The fact that Charlie comes out as gay is a big part of the storyline, but the actual romance isn't. I have a feeling that will be more important in the other books though.
This is more the story of how a young man's powers as a witch come to be. It has magical moments and moments you really, really wish he could use his powers to defeat someone totally. But then, where would the story go in the next books?
As far as the romance goes, I could feel Diego's desperation and insecurity and I totally understand. I didn't feel the same need, want and desires coming from Charlie. Yes, I know he was just coming out as gay, but I just didn't feel much passion in him, especially for a hormonal teenager. He does have a lot going on in his life though, so it's really understandable.
I can't wait for the next book. This will definitely be a re-read series for me. I'm sure of it.
Though I found it being promoted in a facebook MM romance group, there really isn't a huge amount of romance in this first book of what I found out will be a trilogy. The fact that Charlie comes out as gay is a big part of the storyline, but the actual romance isn't. I have a feeling that will be more important in the other books though.
This is more the story of how a young man's powers as a witch come to be. It has magical moments and moments you really, really wish he could use his powers to defeat someone totally. But then, where would the story go in the next books?
As far as the romance goes, I could feel Diego's desperation and insecurity and I totally understand. I didn't feel the same need, want and desires coming from Charlie. Yes, I know he was just coming out as gay, but I just didn't feel much passion in him, especially for a hormonal teenager. He does have a lot going on in his life though, so it's really understandable.
I can't wait for the next book. This will definitely be a re-read series for me. I'm sure of it.
August 11, 2014
4.5 stars rounded up. Thank you to Ulysses Dietz for recommending this novel, his review says everything I would wish to say in my review, so why plagiarise.
The cliff hanger ending didn't offend me so much, I am looking forward to the next instalment.
My only niggle, and this is a slight niggle, parts could have been edited down more. The WIT (Witches In Training) camp dragged on a little too long for me, and the gay teenager angst, the kissing and fumbling around, whilst sweet, again could have been edited down. There is no sex in this novel. This is a Gay, Teenage, American Harry Potter-style story.
Loved it.
The cliff hanger ending didn't offend me so much, I am looking forward to the next instalment.
My only niggle, and this is a slight niggle, parts could have been edited down more. The WIT (Witches In Training) camp dragged on a little too long for me, and the gay teenager angst, the kissing and fumbling around, whilst sweet, again could have been edited down. There is no sex in this novel. This is a Gay, Teenage, American Harry Potter-style story.
Loved it.
October 17, 2013
I love paranormal fiction and consider myself well read in that genre. Jeff Jacobson has written a brilliant story that competes with the best in the biz!
The story is full of vivid characters and exciting plots; filled with humor, suspense and real life situations of love, sexuality and WITCHES!
I fell in love with the characters and couldn't put the book down! I was actually crying at one point while reading in a busy Starbucks. That's how deeply I was moved by the story.
Excellent job Jeff Jacobson. I'm impatiently awaiting book 2!!
July 17, 2015
A great read.
A great idea. I liked this with world. Dialogue is well done but I felt like I always wanted more. Story was well placed and the ending is appropriately ambiguous. Looking forward to what Charlie does next. The only negative is that the book feels over edited.
A great idea. I liked this with world. Dialogue is well done but I felt like I always wanted more. Story was well placed and the ending is appropriately ambiguous. Looking forward to what Charlie does next. The only negative is that the book feels over edited.
December 3, 2017
This book could have been real rather good - sadly there is a need for a good editor to cut down on a lot of the story that feels bloated. The dialogue is also, poor and stilted which is a massive downside.
March 8, 2014
An interesting fantasy/coming out story.
December 1, 2019
Good premise with poor execution. I feel like ot would be a good book for a preteen or s teen but the writing was bland and the magic system needs work
August 23, 2017
4 stars
The boy who couldn't fly straight is a paranormal adventure novel, written by Jeff Jacobsen. We follow Charlie Creevey on his journey as he discovers that he comes from a family of witches. Both Charlie and his mother are attacked one day, leaving them no other option than to move to Seattle so that Charlie can stay with his aunt and uncle. There, he finds out that an evil coven of witches who are known for killing teens are attempting to kidnap him. Charlie has to train in order to protect himself, but while all this is happening, he develops feelings for a boy from school named Diego Ramirez. Charlie isn't sure if he should accept his sexuality, which makes life more difficult, considering the things he already has to deal with.
I really enjoyed this book. The characters were really well written and didn't seem fake or anything like that. Their development didn't feel forced, quite the opposite. It was easy to identify with them and understand what they were like. The writing style made everything flow really nicely from introduction to conclusion, very few moments felt dragged out or unnecessary.
I was scared that the romantic sub-plot would take over the main-plot, but that was not the case here. Charlie and Diego had a healthy relationship which developed in a realistic way. They had their ups and downs, but everything was resolved quickly. The book is less about the romance, and more about Charlie learning to accept himself and coming out to those he cares about.
Uncle Randall and aunt Beverly were great parental figures. I felt attached to them the second they were introduced, which is something I rarely experience with parental figures in books.
The magic elements of the story were very interesting and entertaining to read about, which made me curious as to what Charlie would learn and how well he would excel at it. There were a few places where we received a lot of information all at once, but it wasn't done in a bad way and didn't affect my enjoyment negatively.
Overall, I think this book deserves more hype than it has received. Some people who have read "The boy who couldn't fly straight", compare the book to Harry Potter. I agree with them, considering the fact that the story and the elements are quite similar to HP. It was an incredible ride and I cant wait for the next book in the series to come out.
Highly recommend!
The boy who couldn't fly straight is a paranormal adventure novel, written by Jeff Jacobsen. We follow Charlie Creevey on his journey as he discovers that he comes from a family of witches. Both Charlie and his mother are attacked one day, leaving them no other option than to move to Seattle so that Charlie can stay with his aunt and uncle. There, he finds out that an evil coven of witches who are known for killing teens are attempting to kidnap him. Charlie has to train in order to protect himself, but while all this is happening, he develops feelings for a boy from school named Diego Ramirez. Charlie isn't sure if he should accept his sexuality, which makes life more difficult, considering the things he already has to deal with.
I really enjoyed this book. The characters were really well written and didn't seem fake or anything like that. Their development didn't feel forced, quite the opposite. It was easy to identify with them and understand what they were like. The writing style made everything flow really nicely from introduction to conclusion, very few moments felt dragged out or unnecessary.
I was scared that the romantic sub-plot would take over the main-plot, but that was not the case here. Charlie and Diego had a healthy relationship which developed in a realistic way. They had their ups and downs, but everything was resolved quickly. The book is less about the romance, and more about Charlie learning to accept himself and coming out to those he cares about.
Uncle Randall and aunt Beverly were great parental figures. I felt attached to them the second they were introduced, which is something I rarely experience with parental figures in books.
The magic elements of the story were very interesting and entertaining to read about, which made me curious as to what Charlie would learn and how well he would excel at it. There were a few places where we received a lot of information all at once, but it wasn't done in a bad way and didn't affect my enjoyment negatively.
Overall, I think this book deserves more hype than it has received. Some people who have read "The boy who couldn't fly straight", compare the book to Harry Potter. I agree with them, considering the fact that the story and the elements are quite similar to HP. It was an incredible ride and I cant wait for the next book in the series to come out.
Highly recommend!
March 26, 2018
I couldn’t put this book down.
The author has a great style of writing and describing the characters and the world.
The main character is an insecure 15 year old boy who has to deal with a lot of unexpected changes in his life. He is very likable and appears to be honest in all his flaws and weaknesses.
The story plays in present day America and involves witchcraft. As it is a coming of age story there are a lot of questions of school, fitting in and finding yourself. But even if “comig of age” can be dramatic, the author does not stress it too much.
If you like teenage protagonists, witchcraft, a bit of gay romance and unsolved family miseries, this is a really enjoyable book for you.
The author has a great style of writing and describing the characters and the world.
The main character is an insecure 15 year old boy who has to deal with a lot of unexpected changes in his life. He is very likable and appears to be honest in all his flaws and weaknesses.
The story plays in present day America and involves witchcraft. As it is a coming of age story there are a lot of questions of school, fitting in and finding yourself. But even if “comig of age” can be dramatic, the author does not stress it too much.
If you like teenage protagonists, witchcraft, a bit of gay romance and unsolved family miseries, this is a really enjoyable book for you.
July 25, 2021
A Double Coming Out
Charlie grew up shy and isolated. When his mother takes him to live with his aunt and uncle in , he starts his journey of coming of age, as well as coming out as being both gay and a witch. The author takes us through Charlie's inner battles and teen angst, as he struggles to discover who he is. There is a lot of drama, both physical and psychological. Although there is no actual sex, this book may be too much for younger teens, due to the violence and death in the final chapters. Recommended for more mature teens.
Charlie grew up shy and isolated. When his mother takes him to live with his aunt and uncle in , he starts his journey of coming of age, as well as coming out as being both gay and a witch. The author takes us through Charlie's inner battles and teen angst, as he struggles to discover who he is. There is a lot of drama, both physical and psychological. Although there is no actual sex, this book may be too much for younger teens, due to the violence and death in the final chapters. Recommended for more mature teens.
August 23, 2018
This was a well written and entertaining story with an endearing main character. I really liked Charlie. For most of the book he was confused and anxious, but he was very resilient about all the new and scary things in his life and I wanted more of him learning how to control his new powers.
But, just when Charlie finally gets “popped” and begins to do cool things, the books ends with a cliffhanger... sigh.
But, just when Charlie finally gets “popped” and begins to do cool things, the books ends with a cliffhanger... sigh.
Read
December 19, 2019This was a solid beginning to a younger (I believe the MC is 14 or 15? and seems pretty innocent) YA series. It is definitely a "book 1" and does not stand on its own -- all beginning and set-up, no resolution and even most of what's going on with the bad guys hasn't been explained yet.
The start was a little slow but I liked the protagonist, and it got a lot more interesting once he started at his new school and more characters came into play.
The start was a little slow but I liked the protagonist, and it got a lot more interesting once he started at his new school and more characters came into play.
December 7, 2020
Good for LGBTQ teens.
As a gay man and liver of all things magical this book ticks a lot of boxes for me. Great characters who felt very believable. I did feel the ending was a little but anti climatic. As an adult I really enjoyed it and it's nice to see a novel about a gay teenager coming to terms with his sexuality. I think this book would help a lot of teenagers who identify as LGBTQ come out the closet.
As a gay man and liver of all things magical this book ticks a lot of boxes for me. Great characters who felt very believable. I did feel the ending was a little but anti climatic. As an adult I really enjoyed it and it's nice to see a novel about a gay teenager coming to terms with his sexuality. I think this book would help a lot of teenagers who identify as LGBTQ come out the closet.
January 21, 2023
It’s magic
This is a story about Charlie -a normal kid, not the average teenager (he’s hardworking and respectful towards his mother) who is thrust into a situation he doesn’t understand and has no control over.
In this story you are introduced to adults who help guide him and you get a glimpse of the forces working against him.
I’m looking forward to reading the second book. I really want Charlie to be okay.
This is a story about Charlie -a normal kid, not the average teenager (he’s hardworking and respectful towards his mother) who is thrust into a situation he doesn’t understand and has no control over.
In this story you are introduced to adults who help guide him and you get a glimpse of the forces working against him.
I’m looking forward to reading the second book. I really want Charlie to be okay.
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