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Tales from Foster High #3
Raise Your Glass: Tales From Foster High Book Three
Kyle Stilleno used to be the invisible student. Brad Greymark used to be the baseball star.
Then they fell in love and Brad outed them both with a spectacular public display of affection, and now everything is different.
After spending a few days lying low, Kyle and Brad are going back to school. It's time to face the music and see how Foster High deals with their growing romance. But the school's reaction-and the staff's hostility-are not what they expected. Everyone they know seems to be allied against them.
Isn't there anyone they can count on to defend their happiness?
Then they fell in love and Brad outed them both with a spectacular public display of affection, and now everything is different.
After spending a few days lying low, Kyle and Brad are going back to school. It's time to face the music and see how Foster High deals with their growing romance. But the school's reaction-and the staff's hostility-are not what they expected. Everyone they know seems to be allied against them.
Isn't there anyone they can count on to defend their happiness?
98 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 30, 2012
10 people are currently reading
613 people want to read
About the author
John Goode
35 books668 followersJohn Goode is a member of the class of '88 from Hogwarts school of wizardry, specializing in incantations and spoken spells. At the age of 14 he proudly represented District 13 in the 65th Panem games where he was disqualified for crying uncontrollably before the competition began. After that he moved to Forks, Washington where, against all odds, dated the hot, incredibly approachable werewolf instead of the stuck up jerk of a vampire but was crushed when he found out the werewolf was actually gayer than he was. After that he turned down the mandatory operation everyone must receive at 16 to become pretty citing that everyone pretty were just too stupid to live before moving away for greener pastures. After falling down an oddly large rabbit hole he became huge when his love for cakes combined with his inability to resist what sparsely worded notes commanded and was finally kicked out when he began playing solitaire with the Red Queen's 4th armored division. By 18 he had found the land in the back of his wardrobe but decided that thinly veiled religious allegories where not the neighbors he desired. When last seen he had become obsessed with growing a pair of wings after becoming obsessed with Fang's blog and hasn't been seen since.
Or he is this guy who lives in this place and writes stuff he hopes you read.
Or he is this guy who lives in this place and writes stuff he hopes you read.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews
April 4, 2016
OMG Did this remind me of my high school experience. I had hoped more things had changed but I guess not.
The story is a quick read with both highs and lows. Well worth the read.
June 18, 2018
"We fell in love in a hopeless place" was playing in my head during the whole time I was reading this installment. Foster High is a such a hopeless place for two queer teens. Or is it?
I admit I read this through my fingers. I’m not really sheltered as far as high school bullying and discrimination are concerned but I was still disgusted and horrified by people’s reaction (both students and teachers’) to Kyle and Brad’s relationship after they came back to school. But this is small town Texas for you.
On the bright side, shitty parents might not be so shitty after all. I mean they are, but at least they ‘re not bigots. I love it when family is not portrayed black and white. There is a gray area, people. Some times they let us down, some others they stand by our side. Kyle and Brad’s parents surprised me pleasantly. Still flawed, but there’s a ray of light there.
I’m loving the blooming romance between Brad and Kyle, especially the fact that it’s growing at a steady pace. These two are melting me. Who said that teenage love can’t be true and strong? I can totally see that here.
Also, I knew my boy Brad will come around and start kicking asses! It takes a walk on the dark side to stop being an inconsiderate asshole, yes?
One thing is for sure. Whether people start coming around or not, Brad and Kyle will need allies. This is war!
*Posted on Gay Book Reviews.*
November 18, 2016
Tengo 39 años, empecé el instituto (high school) hace 25, se supone que durante este tiempo el mundo debría haber cambiado hacia un lugar más tolerante. Parece que no. Yo me crié en un entorno progresista en Madrid, con amigos homosexuales en el instituto que en ningún momento se vieron sometidos a lo que Brad y Kyle se ven sometidos aquí, jamás vimos ni siquiera una mala mirada de compañeros o profesores. Con seguridad lo que yo viví no es lo que suele pasar, pero es difícil entender cómo puede ocurrir lo que sufren Kyle y Brad, es muy difícil asimilar que ocurre de verdad.
Brad y Kyle deben afrontar su "nueva vida" en el instituto, se van a encontrar con la oposición y odio de muchos, y el apoyo de unos pocos. Ellos se muestran tan imperfectos y tan perfectos como siempre, tan adorables, tan vulnerables y tan fuertes, tan dulces. El libro contiene momentos muy bonitos entre ellos dos, pero va más allá de eso, es un análisis sobre el acoso, da igual por la razón que sea, y aunque ha habido algún momento películero y de "rolling eyes" la forma de exponerlo me ha parecido tan inteligente como en los libros anteriores. Magnífica la escena de Brad en la biblioteca.
Un respiro con otro libro y a por el cuarto.
Brad y Kyle deben afrontar su "nueva vida" en el instituto, se van a encontrar con la oposición y odio de muchos, y el apoyo de unos pocos. Ellos se muestran tan imperfectos y tan perfectos como siempre, tan adorables, tan vulnerables y tan fuertes, tan dulces. El libro contiene momentos muy bonitos entre ellos dos, pero va más allá de eso, es un análisis sobre el acoso, da igual por la razón que sea, y aunque ha habido algún momento películero y de "rolling eyes" la forma de exponerlo me ha parecido tan inteligente como en los libros anteriores. Magnífica la escena de Brad en la biblioteca.
Un respiro con otro libro y a por el cuarto.
August 4, 2015
Continuing BR with Paul and Sonia.
I'm so looking forward in reading the rest of the series again!!!
I'm rooting for the guys; Kyle, Brad ♡♡♡
**********************************************
(review 2014, August 3rd)
Written in both Kyle’s and Brad’s POV
Kyle and Brad are going back to school…
In this book I liked the inner dialogue of Brad very much!
I looked over at him and felt an ache in my chest when I realized how much I liked him. I had never felt like I did with Kyle. I couldn’t get close enough to him, and knowing how much I needed to be with him scared the bejeezus out of me. But that fear always ran like a bitch every time he smiled at me.
This was going to be difficult for the both of them. Brad not being the popular guy anymore and Kyle getting all kind of attention..
Kyle being his witty-self;
If she understood the difference between referring to me as “the gay guy” and using my actual name, the knowledge was lost between her vapid gaze and her single AAA-battery brain.
There is a physical reaction that comes when you realize someone is talking directly to you. It’s a bit like a flush, but instead of warmth, it’s a chill that transcends any reaction you have had from a drop in temperature. It runs down your spine, and it’s what I must imagine being chased in a horror movie must feel like: that moment when the fear turns to panic, and no matter how hard you scream at yourself to move, nothing in your body wants to listen to anything you have to say on the matter.
Yes, I’m gay. Yes, I’m dating Brad. I have no idea if he’s gay; if you want to know, ask him. And if you want to know what we’ve done, feel free to describe to me in detail what you’ve done sexually, and I’ll be more than willing to share.” “It’s the twenty-first century; I cannot believe my sex life warrants this much conversation. Are we done?”
I just can’t seem to review this series in my own words. I’m still quoting because the words are beautiful and I couldn’t say it any better!!
I hate the homophobic behavior. It’s disgusting and makes me very angry!!!
I had imagined how horrible it would be if I ever had to come out, but those images were nothing compared to the reality. We sat on the steps of the music room in silence as people walked by, staring at us like we were rare animals on display.
“And if you look to your right you will see a mated pair of North American homosexuals. Please don’t get too close, they spit.”
Brad beaten up for it…
But as I looked up and realized that this guy, this wonderful boy who never wanted more than to be invisible, had just gone toe to toe with the school’s running back to defend my honor, I knew for a fact that everyone who had come before meant nothing compared to him. I had possessed acquaintances and lackeys, sycophants and hangers-on, in every shape and variety. In all my eighteen years I had never seen what I saw sitting on a crappy nurse’s bed as he knelt next to me.
It was at that very moment I realized I was in love with Kyle Stilleno.
Brad being
I love Kyle and Brad together!!
“You are so beautiful,” he said, moving back toward me. His lips touched my shoulder and began to move down as he talked. “You shouldn’t”—kiss—“hate anything”—kiss—“anything so perfect.”
Brad:
“I didn’t have a life before you. All of that was… was just a waste of time.” I put my hand over his heart. “This, this is the first real thing I have ever felt. You didn’t ruin my life, dummy.” I smiled at him as my own eyes began to mist up. “You saved my life.”
my other reviews of the series
May 24, 2012
I received this book from the author as an advance copy.
I really think this series hits its true stride in this book. Kyle comes into his own, with a depth and strength that were hinted at but not as clearly displayed in the first two stories. Brad is a bit more introspective than before. He's more aware of his situation and the people around him, and it looks good on him. His thoughts on being popular are so apt, and his oscillations between positive and negative emotions were very appropriate for a teenager. I really fell in love with both these boys in this book.
There are lots of wonderful quotable lines, which I will again leave you to discover in situ, because I hate spoilers. Let me just say the author's witty, slightly snarky way with words is on display and not to be missed (and the metaphors in this one are varied and engaging.)
I felt the emotional depth of the boys' situation of going from invisible nerd and school jock to an out and harassed gay couple was more poignant here, and well done. Kyle's mother shows more facets to her personality and becomes less of a background figure (and the hint of likely future pain when she fails Kyle again in the future is subtle but powerful.)
If combined with the first two books, these three could be considered a complete story arc, with a HFN ending. (I understand they will be released that way, and I urge you to get all 3 and read them back-to-back if the complete volume is not yet available.) Although the story could stop here, I'm very glad that there will be more to come, since I am fascinated by how this will play out. The ending of this book is perhaps a little articulate for Brad's character, and a little positive on his father's (although I'm thinking the private reality may be quite different from the public face for Brad's parents.) It was nonetheless satisfying, and hopeful, without wrapping the situation up in an unrealistic bow. So now I just have to wait for the next volume... How long was that going to be again?
I really think this series hits its true stride in this book. Kyle comes into his own, with a depth and strength that were hinted at but not as clearly displayed in the first two stories. Brad is a bit more introspective than before. He's more aware of his situation and the people around him, and it looks good on him. His thoughts on being popular are so apt, and his oscillations between positive and negative emotions were very appropriate for a teenager. I really fell in love with both these boys in this book.
There are lots of wonderful quotable lines, which I will again leave you to discover in situ, because I hate spoilers. Let me just say the author's witty, slightly snarky way with words is on display and not to be missed (and the metaphors in this one are varied and engaging.)
I felt the emotional depth of the boys' situation of going from invisible nerd and school jock to an out and harassed gay couple was more poignant here, and well done. Kyle's mother shows more facets to her personality and becomes less of a background figure (and the hint of likely future pain when she fails Kyle again in the future is subtle but powerful.)
If combined with the first two books, these three could be considered a complete story arc, with a HFN ending. (I understand they will be released that way, and I urge you to get all 3 and read them back-to-back if the complete volume is not yet available.) Although the story could stop here, I'm very glad that there will be more to come, since I am fascinated by how this will play out. The ending of this book is perhaps a little articulate for Brad's character, and a little positive on his father's (although I'm thinking the private reality may be quite different from the public face for Brad's parents.) It was nonetheless satisfying, and hopeful, without wrapping the situation up in an unrealistic bow. So now I just have to wait for the next volume... How long was that going to be again?
May 29, 2012
I must admit I feel like a bit of a broken record...but oh my...this book? Well this book was quite simply..stunning. I can tell you that Raise Your Glass by John Goode is not all hugs and kisses. In fact, this story was, at times, part gut-wrenching, part infuriating and terribly sweet. SO let's begin, shall we...let's step into that fertile land of John Goode's imagination and visit with his boys, Kyle and Brad, one more time.
This story is the 3rd part in the ongoing saga of two high school boys Brad, baseball jock, popular in-crowd King, and well, frankly, just a bit of an ass. But that all changes--in oh so many ways after he meets Kyle, self-admitted emo-esque, nerdy brainiac and lonely guy who has lived most of his life in the shadows. In books 1 Maybe With a Chance of Certainty and 2 End of the Beginning our two boys meet, fall in love and "come out" to their conservative high school in Foster, Texas. At the beginning of this book they have just announced they are gay...and right off the bat, you know life is never going to be the same for these guys. The story picks up the following Monday at school.
...As I walked by I could hear the creeping whisper follow me all the way to class. The Creeping Whisper is a virus that moves from person to person as Patient Zero walks down the hall.
Honestly--who writes this kind of stuff? Is that not IT in a nutshell! Haven't we all at one time done something to bring the "creeping whisper" down upon us?? Don't you remember how intensely uncomfortable it was--knowing the entire class was talking..about YOU? Welcome to the first stroke of genius to fall from Mr. Goode's pen--you are there--with a few sentences you are back in high school--and it is so uncomfortable..so real..that already at page 29 you are hoping to god these boys make it. But the day has just begun...
Things go rapidly from bad to worse for Brad and Kyle as they confront students and teachers alike who view their being gay as an "abomination." From a physical beating that Brad endures by a gang of supposed teammates to a painful and appalling conversation with a bigoted Assistant Principal who informs Kyle he will get no "special treatment" because of his "perversion", we walk through the most horrible day of high school ever imagined. And while these boys made a pact to stick it out together to the bitter end, the day simply overwhelms them and at one point Kyle finds himself alone...
I felt my resolve dive out from underneath me as I began to cry and cry and cry. And I didn't know if I would ever stop.
Ah me...the journey John Goode takes us on in this novella...the painful yet simultaneously uplifting journey he has these two young men travel,was one traumatic moment after another. They endure as friends abandon them. They see how they are viewed by their peers and in many ways it strengthens their resolve to confront bullying in their school once and for all--even the bullying that they themselves took part in...or simply stood by and allowed to happen. For Brad, the day brought it's share of painful eye-opening revelations that he had been a piece of the problem and now, as he bore the brunt of bullying, he resolved to be part of the solution.
Yes, there is a happy ever after of sorts, and initially, I felt that maybe, just maybe Mr Goode was cheating. I mean he had just dragged us through two days of hell at Foster High, gay-bashing, name-calling, hate-filled speeches by supposed authority figures. Then, all of a sudden, parents who, in previous installments in this series, were written as abusive alcoholics suddenly were standing up for their boys. I wanted to cry FOUL! I wanted to shake my head at Mr. Goode and say,"please, this is not realistic!" But then I paused...and I realized...that is exactly what happened to my friend. 35 years ago his parents stood up for him, faced down the administration of the private school we attended and the church to boot. It really can happen this way.
John Goode didn't sell out...he showed us both sides of this story. He trotted out, with ruthless clarity, the hate and bigotry that so many of our LGBT youth endure every single day. He put it on display and dared us to look away from the searing truth that gay youth are despised and bullied and that it pervades our schools and churches and neighborhoods. Then he took us by the hand and showed us the tolerance of loving parents--not perfect parents, not by a long shot, but supportive parents. Parents who were willing to go toe to toe with bigots and shout them down with the law on their side.
And here's the really stunning part, dear reader. He did it with humor and a compelling story and in-depth characterizations and really smart dialogue that never spoke down to us but rather, invited us to rise to its level of excellence. Raise Your Glass was a well-written and clever little novella that packed an emotional punch the likes of which I have rarely seen.
5 stars...5 stars...and deserving of so much more. I highly recommend Raise Your Glass by John Goode. It is a MUST READ for anyone who has ever asked the question or lived through the experience of "what it's like to be a gay teenager who has just come out to the world."
This story is the 3rd part in the ongoing saga of two high school boys Brad, baseball jock, popular in-crowd King, and well, frankly, just a bit of an ass. But that all changes--in oh so many ways after he meets Kyle, self-admitted emo-esque, nerdy brainiac and lonely guy who has lived most of his life in the shadows. In books 1 Maybe With a Chance of Certainty and 2 End of the Beginning our two boys meet, fall in love and "come out" to their conservative high school in Foster, Texas. At the beginning of this book they have just announced they are gay...and right off the bat, you know life is never going to be the same for these guys. The story picks up the following Monday at school.
...As I walked by I could hear the creeping whisper follow me all the way to class. The Creeping Whisper is a virus that moves from person to person as Patient Zero walks down the hall.
Honestly--who writes this kind of stuff? Is that not IT in a nutshell! Haven't we all at one time done something to bring the "creeping whisper" down upon us?? Don't you remember how intensely uncomfortable it was--knowing the entire class was talking..about YOU? Welcome to the first stroke of genius to fall from Mr. Goode's pen--you are there--with a few sentences you are back in high school--and it is so uncomfortable..so real..that already at page 29 you are hoping to god these boys make it. But the day has just begun...
Things go rapidly from bad to worse for Brad and Kyle as they confront students and teachers alike who view their being gay as an "abomination." From a physical beating that Brad endures by a gang of supposed teammates to a painful and appalling conversation with a bigoted Assistant Principal who informs Kyle he will get no "special treatment" because of his "perversion", we walk through the most horrible day of high school ever imagined. And while these boys made a pact to stick it out together to the bitter end, the day simply overwhelms them and at one point Kyle finds himself alone...
I felt my resolve dive out from underneath me as I began to cry and cry and cry. And I didn't know if I would ever stop.
Ah me...the journey John Goode takes us on in this novella...the painful yet simultaneously uplifting journey he has these two young men travel,was one traumatic moment after another. They endure as friends abandon them. They see how they are viewed by their peers and in many ways it strengthens their resolve to confront bullying in their school once and for all--even the bullying that they themselves took part in...or simply stood by and allowed to happen. For Brad, the day brought it's share of painful eye-opening revelations that he had been a piece of the problem and now, as he bore the brunt of bullying, he resolved to be part of the solution.
Yes, there is a happy ever after of sorts, and initially, I felt that maybe, just maybe Mr Goode was cheating. I mean he had just dragged us through two days of hell at Foster High, gay-bashing, name-calling, hate-filled speeches by supposed authority figures. Then, all of a sudden, parents who, in previous installments in this series, were written as abusive alcoholics suddenly were standing up for their boys. I wanted to cry FOUL! I wanted to shake my head at Mr. Goode and say,"please, this is not realistic!" But then I paused...and I realized...that is exactly what happened to my friend. 35 years ago his parents stood up for him, faced down the administration of the private school we attended and the church to boot. It really can happen this way.
John Goode didn't sell out...he showed us both sides of this story. He trotted out, with ruthless clarity, the hate and bigotry that so many of our LGBT youth endure every single day. He put it on display and dared us to look away from the searing truth that gay youth are despised and bullied and that it pervades our schools and churches and neighborhoods. Then he took us by the hand and showed us the tolerance of loving parents--not perfect parents, not by a long shot, but supportive parents. Parents who were willing to go toe to toe with bigots and shout them down with the law on their side.
And here's the really stunning part, dear reader. He did it with humor and a compelling story and in-depth characterizations and really smart dialogue that never spoke down to us but rather, invited us to rise to its level of excellence. Raise Your Glass was a well-written and clever little novella that packed an emotional punch the likes of which I have rarely seen.
5 stars...5 stars...and deserving of so much more. I highly recommend Raise Your Glass by John Goode. It is a MUST READ for anyone who has ever asked the question or lived through the experience of "what it's like to be a gay teenager who has just come out to the world."
March 16, 2019
This was deep. Brad and Kyle fought for what they thought was right, and they won (I think). We don't get full resolution on the bullying ban at the end, but I can hope the school board does the right thing. I felt so bad for all these kids. If I could go back to my younger self, I would say it gets better; school is not be all and end all of life. I have high hopes for Kyle's mom, but yeesh, she has some big hurdles to overcome because she abused Kyle terribly. Sticking up for him now is just one thing out of a million bad. And her turn around does seem sudden - not sure it's realistic.
4 stars. I will continue the series, but not right away. I do have book 5 in the bundle I borrow and I will try to read that before the loan expires.
4 stars. I will continue the series, but not right away. I do have book 5 in the bundle I borrow and I will try to read that before the loan expires.
June 20, 2015
There was a time when I wished I grew up in a country as progressive and wealthy as the US. Until I heard or saw how bad is the bullying in high schools over there. I should be careful what I wished for. XD
And reading this reminded me again how fucked up some people are.
Well as much as how dreadful reading this is, I loved how it ended.
And for those who think being different is not good, I wanna quote a line Brad said in the book:
4 STARS.
MY OTHER REVIEWS FROM THE SERIES:
Maybe with a Chance of Certainty
End of the Beginning
And reading this reminded me again how fucked up some people are.
Well as much as how dreadful reading this is, I loved how it ended.
And for those who think being different is not good, I wanna quote a line Brad said in the book:
4 STARS.
MY OTHER REVIEWS FROM THE SERIES:
Maybe with a Chance of Certainty
End of the Beginning
October 5, 2016
Kyle y Brad son monos-remonos.
Me voy a por el cuarto!
Y prometo no volver a quejarme del colegio infestado de pedorras al que me mandaron mis padres! Tela con Foster High... O.O
Me voy a por el cuarto!
Y prometo no volver a quejarme del colegio infestado de pedorras al que me mandaron mis padres! Tela con Foster High... O.O
May 31, 2012
It's not a prerequisite to have read the other two Foster High books, but recommended. You will lose the nuance and backstory and a whole lot of great writing. And there may be spoilers here...
It's been only two days since baseball jock and school BMOC Brad came out to the school in an attempt to support his boyfriend, nerdy and invisible Kyle. The repercussions haven't really hit either boy terribly hard yet, as they skipped school the day before, and now will have to face the music.
The reaction at home has been mixed. Kyle's mother, gone agan, isn't a factor. And Brad's parents are, as usual, fighting over the news. It's at school where the dread will come in. Brad picks up Kyle and, drawing on other for strength, they head in to Foster High.
The kids are waiting. The news has spread, the gossip ripe. Whispers greet them everywhere they go. Conversations stop as they walk into their classes. Students once friends now look at Brad like he grew an additional head. For Kyle, it means he's noticed now.
But with attention comes conflict, and the underlying homophobia Kyle feared. And it comes out - verbally, physically, emotionally. Even to the point where Brad may not be allowed to play baseball, since he might...become aroused by the bodies around him. Never mind he's been dressing out in locker rooms for years. Never mind he is counting on a scholarship to get the hell out of North Texas.
Will the pressures of being out be too much for Kyle and Brad? How will the school, and the school board, deal with openly gay student? And, most importantly, will the boys be together and safe?
John Goode has once again delivered the goods. This is an emotionally stunning, powerhouse...gem of a story. The two characters, Brad and Kyle, leap off the page with verve and conviction. They grabbed my attention, my love and my heart.
This is a hugely relevant and important series. Nobody else in the genre has captured the pure psychological weight on the shoulders of gay teens, and how truly fragile, yet strong, these kids are. Brad on his own was maintaining, hiding his true self under a self-hating persona. And Kyle was living day-to-day, counting the moments until he was out of school.
Ah, but together? These two together have found something special, something that makes them more than just the sum of the two wholes. They found synergy. And with that, they can make it through.
There are horrible things that happen along the way in this book - deeds that can't be undone, words that can't be unspoken, hurts that can't be taken back. But alongside all that - there is something more. Something underlying all the pain and the fear and the hate.
The unspoken forces that Mr. Goode has given us here are Hope and Love.
Hope for these two boys. Hope for at least some of the people in this small Texas town. Hope for their parents, their friends - old and new. Hope for other gay men and women there.
And love. The love of a young man for another. A parent for their child. Love of self.
This book moved me to tears. Joyful tears that Kyle and Brad will make it. That they are not alone. And that it does get better.
Fine job.
Tom
It's been only two days since baseball jock and school BMOC Brad came out to the school in an attempt to support his boyfriend, nerdy and invisible Kyle. The repercussions haven't really hit either boy terribly hard yet, as they skipped school the day before, and now will have to face the music.
The reaction at home has been mixed. Kyle's mother, gone agan, isn't a factor. And Brad's parents are, as usual, fighting over the news. It's at school where the dread will come in. Brad picks up Kyle and, drawing on other for strength, they head in to Foster High.
The kids are waiting. The news has spread, the gossip ripe. Whispers greet them everywhere they go. Conversations stop as they walk into their classes. Students once friends now look at Brad like he grew an additional head. For Kyle, it means he's noticed now.
But with attention comes conflict, and the underlying homophobia Kyle feared. And it comes out - verbally, physically, emotionally. Even to the point where Brad may not be allowed to play baseball, since he might...become aroused by the bodies around him. Never mind he's been dressing out in locker rooms for years. Never mind he is counting on a scholarship to get the hell out of North Texas.
Will the pressures of being out be too much for Kyle and Brad? How will the school, and the school board, deal with openly gay student? And, most importantly, will the boys be together and safe?
John Goode has once again delivered the goods. This is an emotionally stunning, powerhouse...gem of a story. The two characters, Brad and Kyle, leap off the page with verve and conviction. They grabbed my attention, my love and my heart.
This is a hugely relevant and important series. Nobody else in the genre has captured the pure psychological weight on the shoulders of gay teens, and how truly fragile, yet strong, these kids are. Brad on his own was maintaining, hiding his true self under a self-hating persona. And Kyle was living day-to-day, counting the moments until he was out of school.
Ah, but together? These two together have found something special, something that makes them more than just the sum of the two wholes. They found synergy. And with that, they can make it through.
There are horrible things that happen along the way in this book - deeds that can't be undone, words that can't be unspoken, hurts that can't be taken back. But alongside all that - there is something more. Something underlying all the pain and the fear and the hate.
The unspoken forces that Mr. Goode has given us here are Hope and Love.
Hope for these two boys. Hope for at least some of the people in this small Texas town. Hope for their parents, their friends - old and new. Hope for other gay men and women there.
And love. The love of a young man for another. A parent for their child. Love of self.
This book moved me to tears. Joyful tears that Kyle and Brad will make it. That they are not alone. And that it does get better.
Fine job.
Tom
May 30, 2012
When I first saw John Goode posted the cover for the 3rd story of his Tales of Foster High series, I was wondering whether the story would be "only" Brad's, rather than Kyle. He assured me it wasn't the case; that Kyle would be there too.
After I read this, I personally think that it IS actually a more of Brad's story -- to overcome his fear of not being popular, to understand what it is to be part of an outcast. He's no longer the "It" guy. He's no longer King. And what a slap in the face it has been for him.
In this story, Brad learns that bullying comes in a lot of faces -- not just for the gay kids, but also the ones deemed as 'not part of the popular crowd'. My favorite scene in this story is when Brad plays "Dungeons and Dragons" with the 'nerds' in the library. It is one touching scene, personally. Because King Brad is now part of the commoners -- and when Brad speaks for that, for universal protection against bullying, that is when I feel completely proud of him.
While Kyle, he learns to speak out. He is no longer invisible (though he probably surprises to know that he's actually the King for the nerds). Kyle learns to grow spine and fight and be the superhero in Brad's life. It's great to see how far Kyle goes from the first story, even if the timeline is only around a week or so.
This story is heavy on trying to raise our social awareness about bullying. That is why I feel like being hit in a solar plexus. Fiction doesn't necessarily cannot be drawn from real life. While one might easily be considered this a bit preachy (though I hope it doesn't -- one cannot deny that there is an important message John Goode is trying to convey here.
After I read this, I personally think that it IS actually a more of Brad's story -- to overcome his fear of not being popular, to understand what it is to be part of an outcast. He's no longer the "It" guy. He's no longer King. And what a slap in the face it has been for him.
In this story, Brad learns that bullying comes in a lot of faces -- not just for the gay kids, but also the ones deemed as 'not part of the popular crowd'. My favorite scene in this story is when Brad plays "Dungeons and Dragons" with the 'nerds' in the library. It is one touching scene, personally. Because King Brad is now part of the commoners -- and when Brad speaks for that, for universal protection against bullying, that is when I feel completely proud of him.
While Kyle, he learns to speak out. He is no longer invisible (though he probably surprises to know that he's actually the King for the nerds). Kyle learns to grow spine and fight and be the superhero in Brad's life. It's great to see how far Kyle goes from the first story, even if the timeline is only around a week or so.
This story is heavy on trying to raise our social awareness about bullying. That is why I feel like being hit in a solar plexus. Fiction doesn't necessarily cannot be drawn from real life. While one might easily be considered this a bit preachy (though I hope it doesn't -- one cannot deny that there is an important message John Goode is trying to convey here.
July 24, 2017
3 stars!
Raise Your Glass is another quick read that is part of the Tales from Foster High. We are once again meeting Kyle and Brad, who are forced to deal with the aftermath of their coming out. The story is having some ups and downs and is generally quite fast-paced. I liked the actual plot, but I was missing some deeper considerations on the characters' feelings. And I unfortunately had the feeling that Brad's and Kyle's relationship has not been moving forward. I am however going to continue this series in order to find out more about them! I can only hope that everything will be easier for them now!
Raise Your Glass is another quick read that is part of the Tales from Foster High. We are once again meeting Kyle and Brad, who are forced to deal with the aftermath of their coming out. The story is having some ups and downs and is generally quite fast-paced. I liked the actual plot, but I was missing some deeper considerations on the characters' feelings. And I unfortunately had the feeling that Brad's and Kyle's relationship has not been moving forward. I am however going to continue this series in order to find out more about them! I can only hope that everything will be easier for them now!
October 9, 2012
The third and my personal favourite book in the series. It had a lot of really great scenes. I was happy with the way the book was written and the story that developed. Kyles and Brad's mothers were great in this book and I am so glad things were slightly better in this book than in the previous two. John Goode has written a really good series and I hope to hear more from this specific series. I have fallen in love with Kyle and Brad now and I cannot let them go. :)
July 27, 2016
My review of the first three novellas of this series
Just so I don't go crazy with keeping record of all the books in this series.
Just so I don't go crazy with keeping record of all the books in this series.
July 29, 2015
4.5 Stars
Bloody fantastic!
I loved every minute of this brutal and infuriating story.
Bloody fantastic!
I loved every minute of this brutal and infuriating story.
July 17, 2015
Kyle and Brad returned to school and it was even worse than the shit storm I expected. I find it hard to believe that the teachers and principals could be so despicable - it seemed almost OTT to me. Maybe that's just because the world I live in is much different than small-town Texas. There were a couple rays of light here. First, both of their mothers have started to redeem themselves. Even better, Kyle and Brad are learning to stand up for themselves. I love that they're growing stronger, both individually and as a couple, and that what they're going through is bringing them closer instead of pushing them apart.
On to Book 4, where I hope that the boys get a bit of a break!
On to Book 4, where I hope that the boys get a bit of a break!
June 3, 2015
*deep breathing*
OK, I can do this!
I LOVED THIS ONE SO MUCH! so, so, so... so much!
These books get better and better; I may have to write GR to make them make 10 stars reviews available!!!
John Goode has an amazing talent in creating real characters!
Kyle and Brad's internal reasonings? GOLD; they were so funny and witty and amazing and precious!!! I just can't do it justice! Again if you want a beautiful and rambling free review just check out Marco's on Leafmarks!
Hugs!
OK, I can do this!
I LOVED THIS ONE SO MUCH! so, so, so... so much!
These books get better and better; I may have to write GR to make them make 10 stars reviews available!!!
John Goode has an amazing talent in creating real characters!
Kyle and Brad's internal reasonings? GOLD; they were so funny and witty and amazing and precious!!! I just can't do it justice! Again if you want a beautiful and rambling free review just check out Marco's on Leafmarks!
Hugs!
December 3, 2015
Read as part of Tales from Foster High.
July 12, 2017
MOMS ARE BAD-ASS
O.M.G
I mean I don't know how to express the greatness of the mothers. Omg, my heart literally pounding when I read the parts of Kyle's and Brad's MOM. Woo-hooo
O.M.G
I mean I don't know how to express the greatness of the mothers. Omg, my heart literally pounding when I read the parts of Kyle's and Brad's MOM. Woo-hooo
November 7, 2014
STANDING FUCKING OVATION WHILE WIPING TEARS!
June 2, 2012
OK - I'm saying it one more time. John Goode is brilliant. If you do not FEEL this story, there is something seriously wrong with you and you better get to a cardiologist! The hearts and strengths of these boys should be inspiring us all - to be better humans. This is the strongest installment yet of what is one of my favorite series.
It scares me to death that this kind of stuff is going on every day inside schools all over the country - that NO adult seems to have these kids' backs. And we wonder why this is a violence obsessed culture filled with little people with little minds? All we have to do is look at the schools that seem to be churning them out at record breaking speeds.
With all the crap going on in the schools and yes from the pulpits of this country, it's amazing to me even more bad stuff hasn't happened. But we can change that - I have to believe that we can. It's PRIDE month and we all need to stand together for what's right. We need to hold our communities and ourselves accountable and no longer continue to accept this.
But back to the story. First Kyle and Brad are so great together even though they know they are walking into the lions' den. They have each other's backs. They are each more concerned for the other than for themselves. That is the definition of love people. I loved how John did not flinch from what is the reality for so many kids - verbal and physical assaults for perceived differences - which are then BLAMED on the victims. I was completely dismayed that not ONE adult from that school seemed to have a clue as to what their job as an educator really meant - and yet we see it go on year after year. Kids bullied literally to death and then everybody claims ignorance. Really? I'm gonna have to call bullshit on that one. People know it's happening.
I LOVED the parents in this one - and I also cheered at the guest appearances by some folks from other Foster High stories. However, I think my favorite scene of all - well certainly the one that had me laughing until I cried - was Brad trying to play D&D. Seriously, one of the funniest things I have ever read. Dude, you need to warn a person when you're gonna write a scene like that!
Can this series be made into a movie? I would LOVE to see it on the big screen and I really think the impact would be enormous. Just saying ;)
It scares me to death that this kind of stuff is going on every day inside schools all over the country - that NO adult seems to have these kids' backs. And we wonder why this is a violence obsessed culture filled with little people with little minds? All we have to do is look at the schools that seem to be churning them out at record breaking speeds.
With all the crap going on in the schools and yes from the pulpits of this country, it's amazing to me even more bad stuff hasn't happened. But we can change that - I have to believe that we can. It's PRIDE month and we all need to stand together for what's right. We need to hold our communities and ourselves accountable and no longer continue to accept this.
But back to the story. First Kyle and Brad are so great together even though they know they are walking into the lions' den. They have each other's backs. They are each more concerned for the other than for themselves. That is the definition of love people. I loved how John did not flinch from what is the reality for so many kids - verbal and physical assaults for perceived differences - which are then BLAMED on the victims. I was completely dismayed that not ONE adult from that school seemed to have a clue as to what their job as an educator really meant - and yet we see it go on year after year. Kids bullied literally to death and then everybody claims ignorance. Really? I'm gonna have to call bullshit on that one. People know it's happening.
I LOVED the parents in this one - and I also cheered at the guest appearances by some folks from other Foster High stories. However, I think my favorite scene of all - well certainly the one that had me laughing until I cried - was Brad trying to play D&D. Seriously, one of the funniest things I have ever read. Dude, you need to warn a person when you're gonna write a scene like that!
Can this series be made into a movie? I would LOVE to see it on the big screen and I really think the impact would be enormous. Just saying ;)
May 31, 2012
An excellent, compelling installment in the series. It's time for Kyle and Brad to face the fallout of coming out at school, and it's much worse than they had feared. I've liked Brad all along, but he steps up in a big way here, and his feelings for Kyle are stronger and clearer than ever. The alternating points of view worked really well; it's such a volatile situation that it helped to have both voices rounding out the narrative. I was pleasantly surprised by the parents' actions, and I'm curious about how that will play out as the story continues. Recommended! (And in a perfect world, this would also be made into a movie. Just saying.)
August 16, 2013
Dear Mr. Goode, you need to sell WWKD (What Would Kyle Do) bracelets. Nuff said. :-)
But seriously, I loved this third installment in the Foster High series. Kyle, who has always been a wallflower, really shines in this one. The ending is just beautiful. Hugs to all the supportive moms out there.
Full review at madisonparklove.com.
But seriously, I loved this third installment in the Foster High series. Kyle, who has always been a wallflower, really shines in this one. The ending is just beautiful. Hugs to all the supportive moms out there.
Full review at madisonparklove.com.
May 24, 2015
Love this series! Definitely plan to read the rest :)
May 12, 2015
This series just gets better and better and better. I was almost on the verge of tears several times. I love Kyle and I'm loving seeing Brad see the light.
January 22, 2021
THE ENDING LINE MATCHED WITH THE ENDING LINE OF THE FIRST BOOK OH I AM SO IN LOVE
did I mention I love this?? That I love the writing, the characters, just UGH EVERYTHING MAN
did I mention I love this?? That I love the writing, the characters, just UGH EVERYTHING MAN
May 31, 2012
This is the 3rd book in the Foster High series and I just have to say I REALLY love this series. I really love these boys.
This book picks up where The End of the Beginning left off. Brad and Kyle are out and together but are they really happily ever after? Just like real life, life in Foster is no fairy tale. The boys have so much stacked against them. Classmates who once were “friends” are now verbally and physically abusive. Teachers and an Administration that not only look the other way but, by virtue of their inaction, condone and, in fact, blame the boys for the injustices committed against them. Bad enough their present is so awful but their future is in jeopardy as well. Things look bleak there for awhile for both Brad and Kyle.
I love Kyle’s voice. I love how freakin brave he is and how strong. I was so moved by the courage he found in himself to stand up for Brad. To stand up for what was right. It is amazing what loving someone can give you the courage to do. My kids have always said they have found it easy to stand up for their friends but difficult to stand up for themselves. Kyle found his steel, his voice, his fists and his strength for Brad. No longer invisible, Kyle was a superhero. I just loved him. Ok and his voice? Again, from raw pain and anguish to laugh out loud funny comments, just really loved him.
Brad was great too. It was hard to be down on him seeing as he had the farthest to fall. It was difficult to journey with him through his struggle to grasp his fallen status at school, the injustice of the administration, and his whole world being turned upside down. The social battleground of high school was captured so very well in this story. So easy to remember those days and emotions so similar to Brad and Kyle’s, even if the cause was different, the results were the same. I actually teared up as Brad realizes how very much he loves Kyle. Written with such heart and so beautifully, the emotions really got to me.
I absolutely love the humor and snarkiness in this series. I love the cultural references scattered throughout the book. The character’s voices are so real I feel like I am there with them as they struggle through their day. I laughed out loud several times and teared up a few times too. Best kind of stories that can make you do both. This book was a wonderful addition to the series and I can’t wait to read more about Brad and Kyle.
P.S. The author's note is important. Please read it.
This book picks up where The End of the Beginning left off. Brad and Kyle are out and together but are they really happily ever after? Just like real life, life in Foster is no fairy tale. The boys have so much stacked against them. Classmates who once were “friends” are now verbally and physically abusive. Teachers and an Administration that not only look the other way but, by virtue of their inaction, condone and, in fact, blame the boys for the injustices committed against them. Bad enough their present is so awful but their future is in jeopardy as well. Things look bleak there for awhile for both Brad and Kyle.
I love Kyle’s voice. I love how freakin brave he is and how strong. I was so moved by the courage he found in himself to stand up for Brad. To stand up for what was right. It is amazing what loving someone can give you the courage to do. My kids have always said they have found it easy to stand up for their friends but difficult to stand up for themselves. Kyle found his steel, his voice, his fists and his strength for Brad. No longer invisible, Kyle was a superhero. I just loved him. Ok and his voice? Again, from raw pain and anguish to laugh out loud funny comments, just really loved him.
Brad was great too. It was hard to be down on him seeing as he had the farthest to fall. It was difficult to journey with him through his struggle to grasp his fallen status at school, the injustice of the administration, and his whole world being turned upside down. The social battleground of high school was captured so very well in this story. So easy to remember those days and emotions so similar to Brad and Kyle’s, even if the cause was different, the results were the same. I actually teared up as Brad realizes how very much he loves Kyle. Written with such heart and so beautifully, the emotions really got to me.
I absolutely love the humor and snarkiness in this series. I love the cultural references scattered throughout the book. The character’s voices are so real I feel like I am there with them as they struggle through their day. I laughed out loud several times and teared up a few times too. Best kind of stories that can make you do both. This book was a wonderful addition to the series and I can’t wait to read more about Brad and Kyle.
P.S. The author's note is important. Please read it.
December 26, 2013
I absolutely adore this series...and this comes from someone who wouldn't read Young Adult stories not so long ago. 5 stars and 5 ♥♥♥♥♥
I highlighted SO many passages in this particular book, I'm amazed my Kindle didn't blow up...John Goode, I LOVE your writing!! This particular book in the series mainly concentrates on the aftereffects of the guys coming out...with particular focus on how Foster High school actually dealt with the situation...or rather failed to deal with it. Brad and Kyle have SO many problems at that bl●●dy school, Kyle with the fact that he'd sooner be invisible than have the whole school find out that he's clever and he's gay, and Brad with the fact that now he's 'come out', all of his teachers and former teammates think he'll 'infect' the rest of the guys with his gayness, and so they a) say he can't change in the same locker room as the rest of them and then b) say screw that, you can't play on the team full stop!! Kyle and Brad have lots of disagreements with all sorts of idiots at the school (including Brad getting beaten up by Kelly and other former teammates, and not getting any help from his teachers), and both of them end up visiting the principal's office more times in one day than they have in their entire school life, but does the principal back them up and support them...does he hell!! He's a small-minded bigoted fool and decides that everything is their fault because they live in Texas and Texas doesn't 'do' gays...he tells them they should have kept their mouths shut and deal with it.
So, we have Kyle trying to help Brad by finding out whether a) the school can actually do what they're trying to do and b) whether it breaks any of the town education rules.....and we have Brad finding out that school geeks and nerds are not as pathetic as he'd previously thought, in fact some of them are really nice especially when they want to play Dungeons and Dragons with him. Everything comes to a head when a special school meeting is called and the guys have 2 very important supporters in the crowd....as well as some guys who've been in the closet for far too long and decide to blow all that out of the water. Did they succeed?? Please read the book and find out. Fantastic and very highly recommended.
I highlighted SO many passages in this particular book, I'm amazed my Kindle didn't blow up...John Goode, I LOVE your writing!! This particular book in the series mainly concentrates on the aftereffects of the guys coming out...with particular focus on how Foster High school actually dealt with the situation...or rather failed to deal with it. Brad and Kyle have SO many problems at that bl●●dy school, Kyle with the fact that he'd sooner be invisible than have the whole school find out that he's clever and he's gay, and Brad with the fact that now he's 'come out', all of his teachers and former teammates think he'll 'infect' the rest of the guys with his gayness, and so they a) say he can't change in the same locker room as the rest of them and then b) say screw that, you can't play on the team full stop!! Kyle and Brad have lots of disagreements with all sorts of idiots at the school (including Brad getting beaten up by Kelly and other former teammates, and not getting any help from his teachers), and both of them end up visiting the principal's office more times in one day than they have in their entire school life, but does the principal back them up and support them...does he hell!! He's a small-minded bigoted fool and decides that everything is their fault because they live in Texas and Texas doesn't 'do' gays...he tells them they should have kept their mouths shut and deal with it.
So, we have Kyle trying to help Brad by finding out whether a) the school can actually do what they're trying to do and b) whether it breaks any of the town education rules.....and we have Brad finding out that school geeks and nerds are not as pathetic as he'd previously thought, in fact some of them are really nice especially when they want to play Dungeons and Dragons with him. Everything comes to a head when a special school meeting is called and the guys have 2 very important supporters in the crowd....as well as some guys who've been in the closet for far too long and decide to blow all that out of the water. Did they succeed?? Please read the book and find out. Fantastic and very highly recommended.
May 30, 2012
It's time to take another stroll in the land of Foster, Texas in this latest installment by John Goode. The once "normal" hallways of the high school have been forever changed since Kyle and Brad's VERY public display of affection. What should've been the start of a fairy tale is slowly melting into a very bad nightmare for our heroes.
What happens after the lonely pauper boy finally gets his rich, handsome prince? How will the rest of the kingdom react? And will the poor boy ever feel like he's worthy to be in the presence let alone date such royalty?
This isn't a magical land some Disney artist created with ink and watercolors where everyone can simply fall in love and wait for Celine Dion and Peabo Bryson to start singing over the credits.
This is real life and in real life, love isn't ever easy. Not only is love hard, but it's a pain in the ass.
In the oscillating story telling, we get into the minds of both Kyle and Brad. We see through their own eyes how their now combined world is shifting and changing at every turn possible. A right here then a left there then a huge U-Turn right before the finish line.
Once again, John Goode has brought reality back into the world of fiction giving us a story of what many teenagers nowadays unfortunately have to deal with on daily basis. Torment from hate and torment from love.
(And my own personal torment of wanting the next book to come out 20 minutes ago.)
I especially want to thank John for the absolutely wonderful and extremely important Author's Note at the end so thank you, John.
Love and understanding will conquer all.
We just have to be patient.
What happens after the lonely pauper boy finally gets his rich, handsome prince? How will the rest of the kingdom react? And will the poor boy ever feel like he's worthy to be in the presence let alone date such royalty?
This isn't a magical land some Disney artist created with ink and watercolors where everyone can simply fall in love and wait for Celine Dion and Peabo Bryson to start singing over the credits.
This is real life and in real life, love isn't ever easy. Not only is love hard, but it's a pain in the ass.
In the oscillating story telling, we get into the minds of both Kyle and Brad. We see through their own eyes how their now combined world is shifting and changing at every turn possible. A right here then a left there then a huge U-Turn right before the finish line.
Once again, John Goode has brought reality back into the world of fiction giving us a story of what many teenagers nowadays unfortunately have to deal with on daily basis. Torment from hate and torment from love.
(And my own personal torment of wanting the next book to come out 20 minutes ago.)
I especially want to thank John for the absolutely wonderful and extremely important Author's Note at the end so thank you, John.
Love and understanding will conquer all.
We just have to be patient.
May 31, 2012
Raise Your Glass (Tales from Foster High #3) - I read this impressive book all in one breath. I just couldn't put it aside until I finished it. I had to know that the guys are all right at the end of the story…
It is an intense, insightful, I'd say psychological realism novel. It took me some time to sort out my thoughts after I turned my reader off. This influential story practically swallows you whole, leaving a deep impact on your heart and soul. You see it from both points of view (Brad's and Kyle's) how it unfolds and intensifies with each and every page. You experience how they feel, what their fears are, what their internal turmoil looks like. You are there with the guys like a silent observer on a rollercoaster of events that you can't turn back, you can't stop this hell of a ride, there is no way out of it but to live it through. You feel it. You breathe it in and freeze in suspense. You taste it. All of the disastrous consequences and implications of their 'coming out' - you suffer it through.
I think that the reason it hit me so hard is because it is exceptionally real, it happened in the past and it might be happening somewhere right about now…
Whether you experienced any type of bullying or not you find this book a remarkable eye-opener. It carries a lot of important powerful messages to everyone. At the same time it is a loving, touching and moving novel. I highly recommend this gem to everyone.
It is a force of nature you have no chance to evade. You just can't miss it, you hear me?
Incredible. Astonishing. Outstanding. High quality stuff.
I'd click ten stars but they don't let me.
It is an intense, insightful, I'd say psychological realism novel. It took me some time to sort out my thoughts after I turned my reader off. This influential story practically swallows you whole, leaving a deep impact on your heart and soul. You see it from both points of view (Brad's and Kyle's) how it unfolds and intensifies with each and every page. You experience how they feel, what their fears are, what their internal turmoil looks like. You are there with the guys like a silent observer on a rollercoaster of events that you can't turn back, you can't stop this hell of a ride, there is no way out of it but to live it through. You feel it. You breathe it in and freeze in suspense. You taste it. All of the disastrous consequences and implications of their 'coming out' - you suffer it through.
I think that the reason it hit me so hard is because it is exceptionally real, it happened in the past and it might be happening somewhere right about now…
Whether you experienced any type of bullying or not you find this book a remarkable eye-opener. It carries a lot of important powerful messages to everyone. At the same time it is a loving, touching and moving novel. I highly recommend this gem to everyone.
It is a force of nature you have no chance to evade. You just can't miss it, you hear me?
Incredible. Astonishing. Outstanding. High quality stuff.
I'd click ten stars but they don't let me.
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