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Flipping for Him: A gay YA romance
Finding a guy was easy. Keeping him might be harder than running up a tree.Kevin McCollum is a high school junior with the usual things on his getting good grades, having fun, and finding a boyfriend. The last one always eluded him until he noticed the "parkour guy." After several days of pretending to study while watching the attractive teen jump on rocks, run up trees, and do flips, Shin finally comes over to introduce himself. As they start dating, Kevin should've known it wouldn't be that easy.
Shin's parents only want their son to date Japanese boys. When cultures clash and pressures mount, Kevin has no idea how to subvert traditions and Shin's parents to keep the boy he cares about.
Kevin will need to clear some tricky obstacles to make his modern love story a reality.
Flipping for Him is a gay YA multicultural romance that features fast-paced scenes, young teen love, and a sweet story. If you've ever been in love, then Jeff Adams' latest will warm your heart all over again.
Buy Flipping for Him today to read YA at its best!
Shin's parents only want their son to date Japanese boys. When cultures clash and pressures mount, Kevin has no idea how to subvert traditions and Shin's parents to keep the boy he cares about.
Kevin will need to clear some tricky obstacles to make his modern love story a reality.
Flipping for Him is a gay YA multicultural romance that features fast-paced scenes, young teen love, and a sweet story. If you've ever been in love, then Jeff Adams' latest will warm your heart all over again.
Buy Flipping for Him today to read YA at its best!
128 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 18, 2015
2 people are currently reading
377 people want to read
About the author
Jeff Adams
45 books224 followersJeff Adams has written stories since he was in middle school and became a published author in 2009. He writes both gay romance and LGBTQ young adult fiction…and there’s usually a hockey player at the center of the story.
Jeff lives in northern California with his husband of more than twenty-five years, Will. They are creative collaborators, writing and podcasting together. For nine years they were the co-hosts of the Big Gay Fiction Podcast.
Jeff is also a Certified Professional in Accessibility Core Competencies (CPACC) by the International Association of Accessibility Professionals (IAAP). He's an advocate for accessible web content and helps creative entrepreneurs understand how they can make sure their content is accessible by everyone.
Jeff lives in northern California with his husband of more than twenty-five years, Will. They are creative collaborators, writing and podcasting together. For nine years they were the co-hosts of the Big Gay Fiction Podcast.
Jeff is also a Certified Professional in Accessibility Core Competencies (CPACC) by the International Association of Accessibility Professionals (IAAP). He's an advocate for accessible web content and helps creative entrepreneurs understand how they can make sure their content is accessible by everyone.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
March 28, 2015
Unfortunately, the best thing about this book for me was the cover. :- (
The characters and the plot line had a lot of potential, but every time that I felt like I was starting to get into the book, it fell flat.
Yes, the book is only 94 pages; however, I've read short stories that were only half that length where I *felt* the love between the 2 MC's and had some type of idea *why* they had feelings for one another.
Everything about their relationship came across as little more than superficial to me. "I think he's hot, he thinks I'm hot, so it must be love." Sorry, but I need more than to be *told* that the 2 MC's spent a few dates having fun together.
*Show* me. --> What did they do, where did they go, what do they have in common? What endears the MC's to one another?
Those are the questions that I really didn't feel were answered here.
And the resolution to why Shin's father finally gave in and allowed his son to date a non-Japanese boy, was so weak. I had to re-read it twice and still was like, "Uhhhh, really? No. I'm out."
Sadly, only 2 *hi-potential-but-low-delivery* stars for this one, so I can't recommend it. :- (
The characters and the plot line had a lot of potential, but every time that I felt like I was starting to get into the book, it fell flat.
Yes, the book is only 94 pages; however, I've read short stories that were only half that length where I *felt* the love between the 2 MC's and had some type of idea *why* they had feelings for one another.
Everything about their relationship came across as little more than superficial to me. "I think he's hot, he thinks I'm hot, so it must be love." Sorry, but I need more than to be *told* that the 2 MC's spent a few dates having fun together.
*Show* me. --> What did they do, where did they go, what do they have in common? What endears the MC's to one another?
Those are the questions that I really didn't feel were answered here.
And the resolution to why Shin's father finally gave in and allowed his son to date a non-Japanese boy, was so weak. I had to re-read it twice and still was like, "Uhhhh, really? No. I'm out."
Sadly, only 2 *hi-potential-but-low-delivery* stars for this one, so I can't recommend it. :- (
September 16, 2020
Shin is the Parkour guy Kevin has been drooling over.
But what Kevin didn’t know is that Shin was noticing him too.
They started out a friendship that quickly turned to romantic feelings but nothing is ever easy as they learned.
Shin’s ex has plans and Shin’s family have ideas of who he should be with and a white guy isn’t one of them.
They really struggle and it’s not about racism it about culture and how Shin’s family kind of come to terms with a few things. Like arranged marriage, and being with someone of the same culture.
What I liked was even with all of the struggle Shin stood up for himself and for Kevin.
I loved the ending I want MORE!!
Great narration this was a first for me by this narrator and I really enjoyed it.
But what Kevin didn’t know is that Shin was noticing him too.
They started out a friendship that quickly turned to romantic feelings but nothing is ever easy as they learned.
Shin’s ex has plans and Shin’s family have ideas of who he should be with and a white guy isn’t one of them.
They really struggle and it’s not about racism it about culture and how Shin’s family kind of come to terms with a few things. Like arranged marriage, and being with someone of the same culture.
What I liked was even with all of the struggle Shin stood up for himself and for Kevin.
I loved the ending I want MORE!!
Great narration this was a first for me by this narrator and I really enjoyed it.
January 7, 2020
Not bad, definitely YA. Also, probably the only book I've ever read with characters interested in Parkour.
I think what I liked best was how Kevin's interest in Shin had nothing to do with his being Japanese, and as such there was no Asian Fetishism. So, yay! for that.
I think what I liked best was how Kevin's interest in Shin had nothing to do with his being Japanese, and as such there was no Asian Fetishism. So, yay! for that.
March 20, 2016
By Jeff Adams
Published by J&W books, 2015
Cover design: Sylvia Frost
Four stars
Parkour and racism: what could be a better combination for a gay YA romance?
I’m not being sarcastic. For a book with gay teens in mind, this is pretty great.
Kevin McCollum is a tall, self-described lanky redhead. One day, basking on the rocks in Central Park like a lizard to catch the spring warmth (I’ve done it, it’s a thing), Kevin spots this hot, short Asian guy doing parkour on the rocks nearby. (If you don’t know what parkour is, google it. It’s cool, although not something I could ever have done, even when I was a teenager!)
Shin Tanaka is another Upper-West-Side gay boy, and he’s teaching himself parkour. When he spots the tall redhead pretending not to eye him as he works out, he decides to just say “hi.”
Good move. Like all Shin’s moves.
How interesting, in 2016, to have a story where being gay is not the issue. Here are two gay city high school boys, both out and proud, yet not hugely experienced in the ways of love. It’s not a first romance, but it’s different than what either of them have known. The problem is racism, and not the expected white-folks-hating-on-non-whites, but the reverse. The racism we don’t really discuss in this culture.
There’s not a vast amount of sturm und drang here; but the presentation of both Kevin and Shin is crisp, believable, and adorable. For someone of my generation, it’s hard to grasp being able to fantasize about another boy’s beauty without feeling shame. When I was sixteen, every stolen look was tainted with guilt. Every thought of my future gay self was edged with fear. Fortunately I survived and the world (praise God) moved on. Now boys like Kevin and Shin exist, but not without their own set of problems.
So, not epic, but embraceable. A sweet little love story for our times. Just right for the first day of spring. Thanks Jeff Adams.
Published by J&W books, 2015
Cover design: Sylvia Frost
Four stars
Parkour and racism: what could be a better combination for a gay YA romance?
I’m not being sarcastic. For a book with gay teens in mind, this is pretty great.
Kevin McCollum is a tall, self-described lanky redhead. One day, basking on the rocks in Central Park like a lizard to catch the spring warmth (I’ve done it, it’s a thing), Kevin spots this hot, short Asian guy doing parkour on the rocks nearby. (If you don’t know what parkour is, google it. It’s cool, although not something I could ever have done, even when I was a teenager!)
Shin Tanaka is another Upper-West-Side gay boy, and he’s teaching himself parkour. When he spots the tall redhead pretending not to eye him as he works out, he decides to just say “hi.”
Good move. Like all Shin’s moves.
How interesting, in 2016, to have a story where being gay is not the issue. Here are two gay city high school boys, both out and proud, yet not hugely experienced in the ways of love. It’s not a first romance, but it’s different than what either of them have known. The problem is racism, and not the expected white-folks-hating-on-non-whites, but the reverse. The racism we don’t really discuss in this culture.
There’s not a vast amount of sturm und drang here; but the presentation of both Kevin and Shin is crisp, believable, and adorable. For someone of my generation, it’s hard to grasp being able to fantasize about another boy’s beauty without feeling shame. When I was sixteen, every stolen look was tainted with guilt. Every thought of my future gay self was edged with fear. Fortunately I survived and the world (praise God) moved on. Now boys like Kevin and Shin exist, but not without their own set of problems.
So, not epic, but embraceable. A sweet little love story for our times. Just right for the first day of spring. Thanks Jeff Adams.
October 8, 2019
Audible Review
Overall 3 out of 5 stars
Performance 3 out of 5 stars
Story 3 out of 5 stars
Culture Clash
Flipping for Him was my first book by Jeff Adams, and it was a good introduction to his works- I'll definitely be looking into more.
What I liked about this story was that it wasn't the boys sexuality that caused the issue, it was the fact that Kevin wasn't Japanese. It caused quite a bit of conflict, as did the behind-the-scenes manipulations by Quan. But since this was a very short story, after a little drama and angst, things were resolved rather quickly. It was a cute story, if a little too "insta" for my liking- it didn't seem feasible that these boys would fall so hard and so fast, but it's been a long time since I was a teen, so maybe that really is how it would have been! And yeah, the arranged marriage bit was a little far-fetched. But overall it was an entertaining 3 hours.
Not only was this my first Jeff Adams book, it was also my first with narrator Jason Frazier. I enjoyed his voice- he really did a great job with the female characters, I almost thought a woman had joined him just to voice them! I did feel like Quan's character was a bit overplayed- he almost seemed like a baddie from a b-rated movie, and not a teenager. Other than that, I liked that he sounded young enough to portray teens- it's not always easy to find narrators who are able to portray younger characters.
Overall 3 out of 5 stars
Performance 3 out of 5 stars
Story 3 out of 5 stars
Culture Clash
Flipping for Him was my first book by Jeff Adams, and it was a good introduction to his works- I'll definitely be looking into more.
What I liked about this story was that it wasn't the boys sexuality that caused the issue, it was the fact that Kevin wasn't Japanese. It caused quite a bit of conflict, as did the behind-the-scenes manipulations by Quan. But since this was a very short story, after a little drama and angst, things were resolved rather quickly. It was a cute story, if a little too "insta" for my liking- it didn't seem feasible that these boys would fall so hard and so fast, but it's been a long time since I was a teen, so maybe that really is how it would have been! And yeah, the arranged marriage bit was a little far-fetched. But overall it was an entertaining 3 hours.
Not only was this my first Jeff Adams book, it was also my first with narrator Jason Frazier. I enjoyed his voice- he really did a great job with the female characters, I almost thought a woman had joined him just to voice them! I did feel like Quan's character was a bit overplayed- he almost seemed like a baddie from a b-rated movie, and not a teenager. Other than that, I liked that he sounded young enough to portray teens- it's not always easy to find narrators who are able to portray younger characters.
March 23, 2018
A very YA book. I enjoyed it. The conflict here was one of culture clash rather than sexuality. Shin is of Japanese decent, Kevin is white. Shin’s parents want him to date only Japanese boys. A refreshing prejudice for a change in MM romance.
Good narration, although the narrator tended to aspirate before he spoke and this annoyed me at times.
I was looking for a short, uncomplicated listen and this delivered. No below the belt action here. Very, very YA.
Good narration, although the narrator tended to aspirate before he spoke and this annoyed me at times.
I was looking for a short, uncomplicated listen and this delivered. No below the belt action here. Very, very YA.
January 23, 2016
Overall book rating: 3 flipping for him stars
Audio book: Narrator - Jason Frazier 5 stars
Book cover: 3 Stars
I just LOVE the voice of Jason Frazier the narrator for this book, it it wasn't for that sexy voice this book would have been absolutely past boring.
The story line was nothing special.
Audio book: Narrator - Jason Frazier 5 stars
Book cover: 3 Stars
I just LOVE the voice of Jason Frazier the narrator for this book, it it wasn't for that sexy voice this book would have been absolutely past boring.
The story line was nothing special.
March 11, 2015
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.25 stars
Flipping for Him was a cute story and what appears to be the first instalment as the ending left me hanging, wondering “what next?”. This should not come as a surprise considering Adams has written the Hat Trick series, but since there was no mention of a second book, I figured that Flipping for Him was a standalone novel.
I found myself quickly and easily drawn into the lives of Kevin and Shin, appreciating the nervousness and difficulty a teen would have approaching someone of interest and I felt that Adams dealt with this aspect of the relationship well. Both Kevin and Shin were extremely likable characters, but I found that their lives were not fleshed out enough for my liking. There just wasn’t enough interaction with Kevin’s family to make me feel significant depth of character. The few secondary characters were suitably addressed and did their part well, acting as support when things were rough and almost never taking over the limelight.
So I said “almost never” just a moment ago, well here is why: a secondary character, Quan, who went out with Shin for a brief time keeps popping up where he has no business, like the grocery store, for instance. I did not seem feasible that the guys would run into Quan here, there, and everywhere, but like a bad penny, Quan just keeps showing up and it starts to feel contrived.
Read Jason’s review in its entirety here.
3.25 stars
Flipping for Him was a cute story and what appears to be the first instalment as the ending left me hanging, wondering “what next?”. This should not come as a surprise considering Adams has written the Hat Trick series, but since there was no mention of a second book, I figured that Flipping for Him was a standalone novel.
I found myself quickly and easily drawn into the lives of Kevin and Shin, appreciating the nervousness and difficulty a teen would have approaching someone of interest and I felt that Adams dealt with this aspect of the relationship well. Both Kevin and Shin were extremely likable characters, but I found that their lives were not fleshed out enough for my liking. There just wasn’t enough interaction with Kevin’s family to make me feel significant depth of character. The few secondary characters were suitably addressed and did their part well, acting as support when things were rough and almost never taking over the limelight.
So I said “almost never” just a moment ago, well here is why: a secondary character, Quan, who went out with Shin for a brief time keeps popping up where he has no business, like the grocery store, for instance. I did not seem feasible that the guys would run into Quan here, there, and everywhere, but like a bad penny, Quan just keeps showing up and it starts to feel contrived.
Read Jason’s review in its entirety here.
August 22, 2015
I love Jeff Adams' style. He's excellent at weaving a story that has me waiting on the edge of my seat for each move of the characters. I thought Kevin and Shin's story was sweet. Attraction at first sight on both sides, however it wasn't an easy HEA. Jeff built some angst and threw in some obstacles for the characters to overcome. I loved the main characters as well as the secondary ones. (Marshall was a great best friend.)
The audio version added a special treat that took this experience over the edge. Jason Frazier's narration was incredible! This is the first full book I've listened to done by him and I was blown away by his ability to do other characters. He had a specific sound for Kevin as the main, but then he totally gave Shin the accent needed to portray his Asian heritage. And then Jason did female voices and secondary character voices all of which were distinct from the others. Well done!
Over all, I recommend the audio!! :) It is a fun listen! Additionally, anyone who reads my reviews knows I have a harder time with YA. They are normally very clean and I like a little spice. This book had enough sexual tension to keep me going and a satisfying fade to black.
The audio version added a special treat that took this experience over the edge. Jason Frazier's narration was incredible! This is the first full book I've listened to done by him and I was blown away by his ability to do other characters. He had a specific sound for Kevin as the main, but then he totally gave Shin the accent needed to portray his Asian heritage. And then Jason did female voices and secondary character voices all of which were distinct from the others. Well done!
Over all, I recommend the audio!! :) It is a fun listen! Additionally, anyone who reads my reviews knows I have a harder time with YA. They are normally very clean and I like a little spice. This book had enough sexual tension to keep me going and a satisfying fade to black.
November 28, 2016
There are a lot of things to love about Jeff Adam's Flipping for Him, but two especially come to mind. 1) The complete and utter lack of angst that any of the characters feel about being gay. This is the world today for many gay teens and I loved seeing it represented that way.
2) Any good story needs conflict and the issues involved in dating outside one's race, especially amongst more conservative cultures, presented a truly fresh take on this story.
Check this one out. You won't be sorry!
2) Any good story needs conflict and the issues involved in dating outside one's race, especially amongst more conservative cultures, presented a truly fresh take on this story.
Check this one out. You won't be sorry!
February 20, 2015
Cute little YA story, not usually me kind of read but saw a good review and thought I'd give it a go. Sweet little love story of Shin & Kevin that read like their relationship beginnings (that make sense??), only niggle was that the MC's voice's sounded too mature for 16 year old (or maybe it's just me!).
February 18, 2015
I loved these characters. The settings were well described. And the story was fast paced, sweet, and interesting. This is a near perfect example of YA at its best!
August 29, 2015
3.5 STARS
Kevin first spots Shin, aka the “parkour guy”, while sprawled on a rock, catching some sun in Central Park. Shin is jumping, flipping and actually running up trees, and even before Kevin notices how absolutely gorgeous the other teen is, Shin has completely snared his attention. Kevin returns to the same spot again and again, hoping to catch Shin practicing, until Shin eventually makes a move and asks Kevin on a date. The two boys quickly develop feelings for each other, but neither imagined that Shin’s parents might have a problem with their son dating non-Japanese boys.
Firstly, I had never heard of parkour before but from the description in the blurb I kind of figured out what it was. But still, understanding what it is and actually seeing it are two completely different things. It’s basically humans doing things that only Spiderman should be able to manage. If you’re going to read this story you should watch some of the parkour clips on YouTube (including some of the epic fails). I guarantee it will enhance your reading experience. This element of the story was novel and very well done.
The two main characters themselves felt a little underdeveloped. We know quite a few things about them, such as Kevin’s love of architecture and running and his relationship with his ex boyfriend. Shin is crazy smart, wants to study math and prefers healthier pizza. But all of that feels unimportant. I felt like I needed to hear more from Kevin’s family, how were they reacting to the fact that Shin’s family disapproved of their son? And I definitely needed more from Shin’s parents. They explained their reasoning to Kevin but that was after much of the problem was resolved. I feel as though I missed an important part of the story by not actually witnessing Shin’s struggle to change his parent’s discriminatory beliefs.
What I did appreciate though was the fact that no one had an issue with either of these boys being gay. Not even Shin’s more traditional parents. While it’s obviously still something that some parents refuse to understand, more and more people are coming to accept that gay doesn’t equal wrong. It was great to see these teens face issues other than homophobia.
Flipping for Him was engaging and sweet, filled with just enough teenage angst to keep a reader interested without leaving you rolling your eyes over any adolescent dramatics.
This story has recently been released as an audio book, narrated by Jason Frazier.
Reviewed for Love Bytes Reviews
http://lovebytesreviews.com/2015/08/2...
Kevin first spots Shin, aka the “parkour guy”, while sprawled on a rock, catching some sun in Central Park. Shin is jumping, flipping and actually running up trees, and even before Kevin notices how absolutely gorgeous the other teen is, Shin has completely snared his attention. Kevin returns to the same spot again and again, hoping to catch Shin practicing, until Shin eventually makes a move and asks Kevin on a date. The two boys quickly develop feelings for each other, but neither imagined that Shin’s parents might have a problem with their son dating non-Japanese boys.
Firstly, I had never heard of parkour before but from the description in the blurb I kind of figured out what it was. But still, understanding what it is and actually seeing it are two completely different things. It’s basically humans doing things that only Spiderman should be able to manage. If you’re going to read this story you should watch some of the parkour clips on YouTube (including some of the epic fails). I guarantee it will enhance your reading experience. This element of the story was novel and very well done.
The two main characters themselves felt a little underdeveloped. We know quite a few things about them, such as Kevin’s love of architecture and running and his relationship with his ex boyfriend. Shin is crazy smart, wants to study math and prefers healthier pizza. But all of that feels unimportant. I felt like I needed to hear more from Kevin’s family, how were they reacting to the fact that Shin’s family disapproved of their son? And I definitely needed more from Shin’s parents. They explained their reasoning to Kevin but that was after much of the problem was resolved. I feel as though I missed an important part of the story by not actually witnessing Shin’s struggle to change his parent’s discriminatory beliefs.
What I did appreciate though was the fact that no one had an issue with either of these boys being gay. Not even Shin’s more traditional parents. While it’s obviously still something that some parents refuse to understand, more and more people are coming to accept that gay doesn’t equal wrong. It was great to see these teens face issues other than homophobia.
Flipping for Him was engaging and sweet, filled with just enough teenage angst to keep a reader interested without leaving you rolling your eyes over any adolescent dramatics.
This story has recently been released as an audio book, narrated by Jason Frazier.
Reviewed for Love Bytes Reviews
http://lovebytesreviews.com/2015/08/2...
November 30, 2015
It's inconceivable to me how, in the modern age of multiculturalism and diversity, racial prejudice can still exist. Sadly, however, this kind of intolerance remains very much alive in all corners of society. There are some so fixated on preserving their customs and way of life that they shun any family member who dares stray beyond the cultural divide. This is something the teenage heroes in this sweet novella by Jeff Adams discover for themselves, and having once been in a similar situation myself, I was able to relate perfectly to their experience.
From the first afternoon he spies the boy practicing acrobatics in the park, Kevin McCollum is captivated. Every day on his way home from school, he settles on the grass at a safe distance, ostensibly to do his homework, but in truth so he can admire the gorgeous young man. From behind his textbooks, Kevin watches him perform flips, swing from trees, and jump from rock to rock in the sport known as Parkour. With Kevin too in awe to do more than stare, it falls to Shin to introduce himself, which he does, offering to teach Kevin some of his moves.
The spark between the two boys is instant. Their initial conversation leads to gym sessions and bites to eat, shared glances and hand holding. Their respective friends hit it off immediately, and Kevin can scarcely believe his luck. Yet, between a vindictive ex-boyfriend and the disapproval of Shin's Japanese parents over their son dating a white boy, it's soon apparent that their budding romance will be far from straightforward. Kevin might be developing a natural aptitude for parkour, but it's in his personal life that the real challenges present themselves.
'Flipping For Him' is a heartwarming story, concisely told, packed with tender moments and plenty of drama that kept me turning the pages. The thing I liked most was how the heroes' sexuality is of secondary importance, the conflict centered instead on the differences in their backgrounds. I was also interested to learn about parkour, a sport I confess I knew little of before picking up this book. If you're in the mood for a cute young adult romance which explores the discord that can result when cultures collide, why not give this one a go?
Written for Rainbow Book Reviews and Boys on the Brink
From the first afternoon he spies the boy practicing acrobatics in the park, Kevin McCollum is captivated. Every day on his way home from school, he settles on the grass at a safe distance, ostensibly to do his homework, but in truth so he can admire the gorgeous young man. From behind his textbooks, Kevin watches him perform flips, swing from trees, and jump from rock to rock in the sport known as Parkour. With Kevin too in awe to do more than stare, it falls to Shin to introduce himself, which he does, offering to teach Kevin some of his moves.
The spark between the two boys is instant. Their initial conversation leads to gym sessions and bites to eat, shared glances and hand holding. Their respective friends hit it off immediately, and Kevin can scarcely believe his luck. Yet, between a vindictive ex-boyfriend and the disapproval of Shin's Japanese parents over their son dating a white boy, it's soon apparent that their budding romance will be far from straightforward. Kevin might be developing a natural aptitude for parkour, but it's in his personal life that the real challenges present themselves.
'Flipping For Him' is a heartwarming story, concisely told, packed with tender moments and plenty of drama that kept me turning the pages. The thing I liked most was how the heroes' sexuality is of secondary importance, the conflict centered instead on the differences in their backgrounds. I was also interested to learn about parkour, a sport I confess I knew little of before picking up this book. If you're in the mood for a cute young adult romance which explores the discord that can result when cultures collide, why not give this one a go?
Written for Rainbow Book Reviews and Boys on the Brink
June 26, 2015
Reviewed by Daniel B. for QUEERcentric Books
3.5 Stars
Flipping for Him by Jeff Adams is a story set in the lives of two high school students—Kevin and Shin. One would expect in a romance about gay kids in a high school setting that the story is all about coming out and dealing with bullies. However, this is not the case for Kevin and Shin.
Coming out for these young men is but a forgotten memory. The only problem standing between them is Shin’s parents, who have cultural expectations for their son that cannot be fulfilled while he is with Kevin.
THIS STORY SHIFTS FROM THE STEREOTYPICAL COMING-OUT EXPERIENCE...TO MORE UNIVERSAL THEMES
This story shifts from the stereotypical coming-out experience, a common theme in the coming-of-age gay romance, to more universal themes in interracial romance that are applicable to any type of relationship.
As a child of migrant parents, I can relate to the difficulties Shin faced. To his parents, tradition and culture is deeply rooted in their belief system. Even if Shin’s parents cannot have a daughter-in-law then at least their son needs to find a Japanese boyfriend. Obviously, Kevin does not fit the bill with his fair skin and ginger hair.
Read the full review on QUEERcentric Books
3.5 Stars
Flipping for Him by Jeff Adams is a story set in the lives of two high school students—Kevin and Shin. One would expect in a romance about gay kids in a high school setting that the story is all about coming out and dealing with bullies. However, this is not the case for Kevin and Shin.
Coming out for these young men is but a forgotten memory. The only problem standing between them is Shin’s parents, who have cultural expectations for their son that cannot be fulfilled while he is with Kevin.
THIS STORY SHIFTS FROM THE STEREOTYPICAL COMING-OUT EXPERIENCE...TO MORE UNIVERSAL THEMES
This story shifts from the stereotypical coming-out experience, a common theme in the coming-of-age gay romance, to more universal themes in interracial romance that are applicable to any type of relationship.
As a child of migrant parents, I can relate to the difficulties Shin faced. To his parents, tradition and culture is deeply rooted in their belief system. Even if Shin’s parents cannot have a daughter-in-law then at least their son needs to find a Japanese boyfriend. Obviously, Kevin does not fit the bill with his fair skin and ginger hair.
Read the full review on QUEERcentric Books
January 18, 2016
This was a fun read! I enjoyed the main characters and got into their love story, at times even feeling sheepish that I could witness their passion for each other (they're 16, after all). But not all readers will be as old as I am--it's a great book to give to a YA reader who wants to see himself reflected in stories around him.
The author does a great job depicting Shin's culture, too. He never makes it seem like Kevin, the main character, is fetishizing Shin--he just thinks he's hot and I think that's great, and what I look for in books with interracial/intercultural romance. What's more, the families have no issue with the young men being gay! How refreshing!
If you're a teen or love to read YA books, try this book. It'll leave you wanting to read more books by Jeff Adams!
The author does a great job depicting Shin's culture, too. He never makes it seem like Kevin, the main character, is fetishizing Shin--he just thinks he's hot and I think that's great, and what I look for in books with interracial/intercultural romance. What's more, the families have no issue with the young men being gay! How refreshing!
If you're a teen or love to read YA books, try this book. It'll leave you wanting to read more books by Jeff Adams!
July 1, 2015
This was a sweet and fluffy YA read, with minimal drama (of the parents don't understand but aren't abusive type) and, overall, an adorable pair of MCs who fall into insta-lust and puppy love. It wasn't deep, but it was charming, and the overall sweetness worked as a YA book, with a friendly cast of characters. Kissing was pretty much as far as the chars got, but it added to the sweetness and I definitely enjoyed it.
A few editorial mistakes distracted me, but a quick and fun read overall. For a YA it gets 4 stars, for MM in general it gets 3, and I'm feeling generous and loving so it's 4 overall :)
A few editorial mistakes distracted me, but a quick and fun read overall. For a YA it gets 4 stars, for MM in general it gets 3, and I'm feeling generous and loving so it's 4 overall :)
October 19, 2019
This was the first book that I’ve read by Jeff Adams. The audiobook was on the shorter side, but I enjoyed it from start to finish. The story follows Kevin and Shin as they work through a shaky relationship. This book focuses more so on the cultural differences, rather than sexuality itself. Regardless, the personalities of the main characters captivated me from the first chapter. Jason Frazier performed the voices of the characters perfectly. He brought them to life in a way that only Jason could. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a LGBT YA read.
February 27, 2015
I have not read a lot of YA but this book is just awesome! An interesting subject: jumping on rocks, running up trees, doing flips. It is fast paced and you can't put it down. The culture differences are also a big part of the book and are explained so everyone that reads this knows where each character and their family stands. Jeff Adams did an amazing job!
March 25, 2018
I enjoyed Shin and Kevin getting to know each other. The character who annoyed me was Quan, Shin's ex. Quan blames them for him getting in trouble. They didn't make him be a creeper. They didn't force him to go around his parents. I suppose people like that have low capacity for self-reflection, in books as in real life.
January 16, 2017
I have to admit, that the narrator Jason Frazier simply didn't fit to this story. Sure his voice is like having sex or something, full of flirting and emotions, but his type of voice didn't fit here. The main storyline was way to simple and undeveloped. For me was boring. And Kevin's pissed off mood didn't roll well. He acted like a minor, he was. So yeah, childish easy romance.
January 10, 2016
Reviewed for Prism Book alliance
I might have become a bit of a Jeff Adams fangirl. Luckily, I can also call him a friend. Either way his talent continues to impress me.
July 30, 2015
3.25 stars
Want to read
March 28, 2016I hear that Jason Frazier is doing the audio book. I would happily listen to that man read a tech manual so I will definitely be listening to this when/if it happens.
July 28, 2015
Oh such a lovely story... my only complaint: I WANT MORE!!! Fabulous job you guys *bows to Jeff and Jason* Can't wait to read more of you!!
June 12, 2020
Unfortunately this is the only one from my recent reads that disappointed me greatly. But few aspects of this book was okay type. Let's begin with it. Firstly the plot and synopsis was interesting. Like there is a large of things that can be done with the same plot. Characterisation was good at the beginning (though it doesn’t last long) and most importantly this was a very light read. It was barely 100 pages and it was not time consuming at least. And the front cover! I loved it.
Now, the negative parts. Boy! the list is huge in this department. Firstly romantic aspect of their relationship bothers me. Like I have found him hot, he finds me hot! Wallah, congratulations! We are the inseparable couple now! So where is the logic? Are you trying to convince me relationship will go because of good look? Then comes the pacing of this book! I know this book is barely hundred pages but this is more than enough, for this easygoing story. Like Annie Proulx's "
Brokeback mountain" was only 34 pages long but the way it represented the story of Jack and Ennis' was historic. So It's not mandatory to have a large number of pages to write a good story.
In "Flipping for him" author added huge amount unnecessary things, at the same time characters were not given enough time to build an inseparable relationship, they tried to play in future. Like they stare at each other for couple of days and then they started to kissing and after some days Kevin eventually visits Shin's parents! Slow down a bit! Babes, you are going faster than bullet trains. But Don't worry folks, abomination has just begun!
Shin's parents are a thing boss! Like they are okay with Their son being gay but he must has to date a Japanese guy! They want a Japanese husband for their son and so Kevin is inappropriate. And Shin's Dad even doesn't say a single word to Kevin! Wow Man! and Shin doesn’t have enough guts to protest it but our boy is a Romeo! What a combo! Then comes Shin's ex-boyfriend, who is Japanese but his mentality doesn’t go with Shin's. Now as he heard that Shin's parents are Against of Kevin, he wants to come back in Shin's life forcefully. Come on, make this story a bit more Melodramatic. And guess what author did the exact thing!
The starting of this book was average but what it did then was a total disaster and I was generous enough to finish this complete pile of shit. I'll rate this book 1⭐/5 , only considering the effort the author wasted for this abomination! Keep a descent distant from this book.
Now, the negative parts. Boy! the list is huge in this department. Firstly romantic aspect of their relationship bothers me. Like I have found him hot, he finds me hot! Wallah, congratulations! We are the inseparable couple now! So where is the logic? Are you trying to convince me relationship will go because of good look? Then comes the pacing of this book! I know this book is barely hundred pages but this is more than enough, for this easygoing story. Like Annie Proulx's "
Brokeback mountain" was only 34 pages long but the way it represented the story of Jack and Ennis' was historic. So It's not mandatory to have a large number of pages to write a good story.
In "Flipping for him" author added huge amount unnecessary things, at the same time characters were not given enough time to build an inseparable relationship, they tried to play in future. Like they stare at each other for couple of days and then they started to kissing and after some days Kevin eventually visits Shin's parents! Slow down a bit! Babes, you are going faster than bullet trains. But Don't worry folks, abomination has just begun!
Shin's parents are a thing boss! Like they are okay with Their son being gay but he must has to date a Japanese guy! They want a Japanese husband for their son and so Kevin is inappropriate. And Shin's Dad even doesn't say a single word to Kevin! Wow Man! and Shin doesn’t have enough guts to protest it but our boy is a Romeo! What a combo! Then comes Shin's ex-boyfriend, who is Japanese but his mentality doesn’t go with Shin's. Now as he heard that Shin's parents are Against of Kevin, he wants to come back in Shin's life forcefully. Come on, make this story a bit more Melodramatic. And guess what author did the exact thing!
The starting of this book was average but what it did then was a total disaster and I was generous enough to finish this complete pile of shit. I'll rate this book 1⭐/5 , only considering the effort the author wasted for this abomination! Keep a descent distant from this book.
October 20, 2017
Kevin McCullom is a high school student who finds himself drawn to a young man he sees running, flipping, and doing tricks on the rocks in the park. After getting up the nerve to introduce himself, he learns the object of his affection's name is Shin and the two hit it off. Until Kevin learns that Shin's Japanese parents, while seeming to have accepted that Shin is gay, are very particular in terms of who Shin is allowed to date. And there's another plot afoot at the same time.
I wanted to like this. But so much of it just seemed so incredibly unrealistic. The whole bit with another boy and his farfetched plots against Shin confused me. And the scenes with Shin's parents are awkward throughout the book and do not seem to make sense as the story goes on. The characters are interesting and I liked some of the moments between Kevin and Shin, but overall this one just didn't work for me.
I wanted to like this. But so much of it just seemed so incredibly unrealistic. The whole bit with another boy and his farfetched plots against Shin confused me. And the scenes with Shin's parents are awkward throughout the book and do not seem to make sense as the story goes on. The characters are interesting and I liked some of the moments between Kevin and Shin, but overall this one just didn't work for me.
December 5, 2016
This is a novella length take on a teenage bromance. Until this book set near Central Park in NYC I’d never heard of the sport of Parkour. This latest wrinkle in the genre has the protagonist’s friends and families tolerant of their being out and gay but the Japanese lad’s parents insist he date someone of his own ethnicity. There are a few missing words and grammatical errors but otherwise not a bad read. Some advanced petting but no genital manipulation or anal sex.
May 4, 2017
I enjoyed this YA book. I liked Kevin for his acceptance; of himself and of others. It is obvious that he doesn't see people by the color of their skin but by who they are. Shin was a warm and friendly guy and I liked seeing that he was self confident enough to be the one to approach Kevin. The side characters are great, even the nasty ex-boyfriend Quan is well written.
All read
All read
March 17, 2017
I really enjoyed Flipping for Him, which is a play on words for the parkour that the two main characters are into. This short book is a good, tightly written tale of two gay teens, one white and one Japanese-American, who quickly fall in love, only to have their love quashed by Japanese parents who have some extreme views on who their son can date. There is drama and excitement in this story. I was surprised to have such a full story told in a shorter length. I recommend Flipping for Him.
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