Pagan Babies

by Greg Johnson

From the fleeting optimism of Kennedy's Camelot to the fearsome specter of the age of AIDS, this impressive, powerfully-written debut novel follows the lives of two young people and their stormy relationship that parallels the moral confusion of America over the next 30 years.

Genres: Fiction, LGBT, Gay

320 pages, Paperback

First published February 1, 1993

About the author

Greg Johnson is an American short-story writer, novelist, poet, and biographer who teaches creative writing at Kennesaw State University and lives in Atlanta.

Reviews

[Sarah · Rating 2 out of 5]

Felt like just the longest book in the world. A bizarre coming of age story that must have made more sense when it was published in the 90’s? Follows Clifford and Janice from their childhood in a catholic community in rural Texas, to their adulthood in Atlanta - Clifford is gay, Janice is not. Had its moments, but I really didn’t get much from it. Wouldn’t recommend.

[L.V. Sage · Rating 3 out of 5]

I must admit that I read this book many years ago (in fact, when it was first released), but it has stuck with me through the years and being an author myself now, I wanted to give kudos to Johnson for his work. I found this novel very engaging, the characters likeable as well as easy to empathize with. Taking two childhood friends through the rough teenage years onward, especially during the volatile 1970's and 80's, isn't easy. Johnson manages to do this and retain our interest in these characters throughout. A great coming of age story, especially for the gay community.

[Mandy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book about growing up gay and catholic. Girl loves boy, boy loves boys and girl. I loved this book.