What do you think?
Rate this book
The Last Exit to Normal
* “An excellent read.”— School Library Journal, Starred
It's After 17-year-old Ben’s father announces he’s gay and the family splits apart, Ben does everything he can to tick him skip school, smoke pot, skateboard nonstop, get arrested. But he never thinks he’ll end up yanked out of his city life and plunked down into a small Montana town with his dad and Edward, the Boyfriend. As if it’s not bad enough living in a hick town with spiked hair, a skateboard habit, and two dads, he soon realizes something’s not quite right with Billy, the boy next door. He’s hiding a secret about his family, and Ben is determined to uncover it and set things right. In an authentic, unaffected, and mordantly funny voice, Michael Harmon tells the compelling story of an uprooted and uncomfortable teenaged guy trying to fix the lives around him—while figuring out his own.
* “ Tracking Ben’ transformation from rebellious city boy to hardworking cowboy, Harmon digs beneath the stereotypes. . . . Skillful, often witty insights into human nature. ”—Publishers Weekly, Starred
It's After 17-year-old Ben’s father announces he’s gay and the family splits apart, Ben does everything he can to tick him skip school, smoke pot, skateboard nonstop, get arrested. But he never thinks he’ll end up yanked out of his city life and plunked down into a small Montana town with his dad and Edward, the Boyfriend. As if it’s not bad enough living in a hick town with spiked hair, a skateboard habit, and two dads, he soon realizes something’s not quite right with Billy, the boy next door. He’s hiding a secret about his family, and Ben is determined to uncover it and set things right. In an authentic, unaffected, and mordantly funny voice, Michael Harmon tells the compelling story of an uprooted and uncomfortable teenaged guy trying to fix the lives around him—while figuring out his own.
* “ Tracking Ben’ transformation from rebellious city boy to hardworking cowboy, Harmon digs beneath the stereotypes. . . . Skillful, often witty insights into human nature. ”—Publishers Weekly, Starred
288 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 2008
30 people are currently reading
1244 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 156 reviews
July 12, 2010
In his old life, Ben did drugs and hung out with the wrong crowd. He was never afraid of getting caught. In fact, he wanted to get caught - just to spite his gay father, Paul. Paul came out to their family about thirteen years too late, and after his announcement Ben's mother moved away. After seeing various therapists and attending numerous counseling sessions, Ben is forced to move to Montana with Paul, and Paul's boyfriend Edward. But it takes time for a city boy to adapt to a country setting - and according to Edward's tenacious mother, lots of hard work as well.
Everything about this book was very good, just not perfect. For example, most of the characters were extremely well-developed, especially Paul. They dealt with situations in certain ways that made the book seem realistic, instead of simply getting along without any problems. Sometimes stereotypes were utilized, like with Kimberly, but it did not interfere with the story.
The plot was also surprisingly original - the conflict was not resolved the way I foresaw, and most of the time the story was funny and entertaining. While nothing blew me out of the water, I still enjoyed the quaint country feel from the setting and the hot button issue of gay parents the author addressed.
I would recommend this to reluctant male readers, or anyone looking for a story where the main character has two parents of the same gender.
Everything about this book was very good, just not perfect. For example, most of the characters were extremely well-developed, especially Paul. They dealt with situations in certain ways that made the book seem realistic, instead of simply getting along without any problems. Sometimes stereotypes were utilized, like with Kimberly, but it did not interfere with the story.
The plot was also surprisingly original - the conflict was not resolved the way I foresaw, and most of the time the story was funny and entertaining. While nothing blew me out of the water, I still enjoyed the quaint country feel from the setting and the hot button issue of gay parents the author addressed.
I would recommend this to reluctant male readers, or anyone looking for a story where the main character has two parents of the same gender.
January 16, 2009
A very funny and wise book about a teen named Ben whose father comes out of the closet, breaking up his marriage in the process. Ben is not happy and acts out in an effort to give Dad a little payback. But the tables are turned when Ben's Dad decides to move to a small town in Montana, with his new boyfriend, Edward. Edward grew up in this town and the family moves in with his elderly mother, who is a tart tongued tough old bird, not averse to handing out whacks for bad behavior. But despite an inauspicious beginning in his new town, Ben discovers the value of hard work and the girl of his dreams. Perhaps the ending is a bit too upbeat, but I loved Ben's funny voice in this YA novel.
February 12, 2013
Summary
When Ben reaches the age of 17, his father tells him that he is a homosexual, which causes his wife to leave him. After this Ben spirals out of control by smoking, drinking, and taking illegal drugs. In an effort to save him his father and his lover, Edward, take him to Miss Mae's house. Miss Mae is Edward's mom who is a very tough woman who teaches Ben how to live and how to show respect. The book has a great amount of suspense especially from the moment Ben starts feeling sorry for their neighbor, falls in love and actually starts to like their new home.
Review
The Last Exit to Normal was a book that I thoroughly enjoyed. The beginning started out with a lot of action and just the fact that the story had a homosexual dad made the story interesting. The fact that a teenager was smoking, taking drugs, and drinking was something that really pulled my attention. Even though all these things didn't seem realistic, the author did a great job of making the story realistic. But the best part started after Ben moved to live with Miss Mae. Their fights and conversations were hilarious and always made me crack a laugh. The relationship between Ben and his girlfriend is also interesting. Their first date was basically him saving a man from death, which becomes one of the great reasons of why he is accepted in the town. The story doesn't focus on one part rather than everything from him not being able to cope with his dad and how he has to try and save Billy, his neighbor who is being abused. Overall the book is great. The only thing I didn't like was the ending. I felt like it happened extremely fast and was just a way for the author to end the book. The fire, a teenager going to jail, and Ben living happily ever after just didn't seem realistic. But that doesn't take away from the fact that this was one of the books that really caught my attention and I wasn't able to put it down until I got to the end.
When Ben reaches the age of 17, his father tells him that he is a homosexual, which causes his wife to leave him. After this Ben spirals out of control by smoking, drinking, and taking illegal drugs. In an effort to save him his father and his lover, Edward, take him to Miss Mae's house. Miss Mae is Edward's mom who is a very tough woman who teaches Ben how to live and how to show respect. The book has a great amount of suspense especially from the moment Ben starts feeling sorry for their neighbor, falls in love and actually starts to like their new home.
Review
The Last Exit to Normal was a book that I thoroughly enjoyed. The beginning started out with a lot of action and just the fact that the story had a homosexual dad made the story interesting. The fact that a teenager was smoking, taking drugs, and drinking was something that really pulled my attention. Even though all these things didn't seem realistic, the author did a great job of making the story realistic. But the best part started after Ben moved to live with Miss Mae. Their fights and conversations were hilarious and always made me crack a laugh. The relationship between Ben and his girlfriend is also interesting. Their first date was basically him saving a man from death, which becomes one of the great reasons of why he is accepted in the town. The story doesn't focus on one part rather than everything from him not being able to cope with his dad and how he has to try and save Billy, his neighbor who is being abused. Overall the book is great. The only thing I didn't like was the ending. I felt like it happened extremely fast and was just a way for the author to end the book. The fire, a teenager going to jail, and Ben living happily ever after just didn't seem realistic. But that doesn't take away from the fact that this was one of the books that really caught my attention and I wasn't able to put it down until I got to the end.
December 11, 2008
Harmon, Michael. 2008. The Last Exit to Normal.
The decoder card to the universe wasn't included in the box of cereal God gave humanity. At the ripe old age of seventeen, I'd at least figured out that no matter how hard you try to guess what happens next, you can't. Life wasn't set up that way and we don't like it, so we spend most of our time running around like a bunch of dimwits.
Ben Campbell, our narrator, I must admit, is one of my favorite characters of the year. He makes this book work for me. The story itself? It's as simple and complex as life itself. Ben moves with his two fathers to a small Montana town after Ben has some emotional problems after the big reveal and its aftermath. (His father is gay; his mother moved out and away.) The three move in with Edward's mother, Bonnie Mae Ingerson. And let me tell you, Bonnie Mae is quite a character. Character with a capital C. (Just one of many reasons why I love this one!) The book is a coming of age story of a boy coming to terms with his life as it now is. It's about a boy learning that it's okay that it's not okay. It's more than that. It's about life and love; work and play; friends and enemies. It's about a boy becoming a hero, making a stand when and where he can.
I can't promise you'll love this one. (I did though.) But you should definitely give it a try.
© Becky Laney of Becky's Book Reviews
The decoder card to the universe wasn't included in the box of cereal God gave humanity. At the ripe old age of seventeen, I'd at least figured out that no matter how hard you try to guess what happens next, you can't. Life wasn't set up that way and we don't like it, so we spend most of our time running around like a bunch of dimwits.
Ben Campbell, our narrator, I must admit, is one of my favorite characters of the year. He makes this book work for me. The story itself? It's as simple and complex as life itself. Ben moves with his two fathers to a small Montana town after Ben has some emotional problems after the big reveal and its aftermath. (His father is gay; his mother moved out and away.) The three move in with Edward's mother, Bonnie Mae Ingerson. And let me tell you, Bonnie Mae is quite a character. Character with a capital C. (Just one of many reasons why I love this one!) The book is a coming of age story of a boy coming to terms with his life as it now is. It's about a boy learning that it's okay that it's not okay. It's more than that. It's about life and love; work and play; friends and enemies. It's about a boy becoming a hero, making a stand when and where he can.
I can't promise you'll love this one. (I did though.) But you should definitely give it a try.
© Becky Laney of Becky's Book Reviews
October 29, 2008
I really enjoyed Last Exit to Normal. The characters were well drawn. I didn't always like the main character, Ben, but I understood his anger and his motivation to do some of the crazy/angry things he did. The story arc was satisfying because there are unexpected moments, a real plot and character development. Ben's anger at his father for coming out as a gay man when Ben was 14, seems very realistic as does his acting out in the subsequent years, the motivating factor for his dad and his "momdad" as he likes to call Edward moving the family to Edward's home town of Rough Butte, Montana. At first Ben thinks the town fits all the stereotypes of rural, small town life but as he gets to know people, he finds friendships, love and respect for many people who he might have dismissed at first meeting.
December 15, 2008
Ben Campbell, resident of Spokane,Washington, has a lot to deal with as a teen. His dad has come out of the closet and his mom left. He is left with his dad and his new momdad. Ben rebels with drugs and other various acts until his dad and momdad decide that relocation to Rough Butte, Montana might help straighten Ben out. In Rough Butte, they move in with momdad's mom, Miss Mae. Miss Mae makes the story. She is a terrific character and I hated saying goodbye to her @ the end of the story. The story deals with Ben dealing with life with a gay dad, moving to a small town, and a neighbor that is a child abuser. We watch Ben evolve into a wonderful young man and finally feel accepted. Rough Butte turns out to be a town of awesome citizens as well as the usual evil citizens. I loved this book and believe Michael Harmon's characterization is some of the very best.
November 28, 2008
When Ben's father announces that he's gay, his mom takes off and his dad shoves Ben into all the therapy money can buy. After several years of abusing various drugs and getting into trouble, Ben's dad relocates the family (Ben, his dad, and his dad's husband Edward) to Rough Butte, Montana. They move in with Edward's mother, a no-nonsense country widow, and Ben has to toughed up quick. He also has to deal with the lingering issues he has with his dad.
An ambitious novel and one I really enjoyed. Ben and his family are complex and there are no easy answers. The people of Rough Butte are also complex. Some have a problem with Ben's dad and his husband, but others are more accepting.
An ambitious novel and one I really enjoyed. Ben and his family are complex and there are no easy answers. The people of Rough Butte are also complex. Some have a problem with Ben's dad and his husband, but others are more accepting.
January 7, 2016
The Last Exit to Normal by Michael Harmon is an absolutely fantastic book. It is about a boy named Ben who's father blows apart his family because he's gay. They move to Montana and Ben has to adjust to his life there but there is a dark secret in the little town and Ben is hell-bent on discovering what it is.
February 3, 2009
I'm really kind of surprised this made it onto BBYA. I felt like Harmon crammed way too much into the book, between the conflict with Ben's gay father, Ben's angst over his mother leaving, the abused kid next door, the psycho obsessed with Ben's girlfriend, and, oh yeah, two near fatal incidents.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Want to read
March 3, 2008Released March 11, 2008
April 2, 2020
i read this some months or years ago.I don't remember much about this book the only thing I remember that i hated this book. I can't even remember why i hated it.
March 27, 2011
I opted to fetch this book from the library, not certain if I'd enjoy it enough to own it, but I'm now planning to purchase a copy as I intend to re-read this in my spare time (whenever that comes to pass). Last Exit is one of those gems of a novel I want to push out into the world and have others enjoy and since I lend a lot of books, it's one that will go into my permanent collection.
Benjamin is a troubled seventeen year old. That kind of character seems all too familiar, right? But the how and why of Benjamin's angst is far from normal. After his father comes out and reveals his true sexual orientation, thus destroying his marriage and sending his former wife running for the hills, Ben sets out on a course of self-destructive behavior. The formerly "good kid" takes up smoking pot, petty crimes and slacking at school. When a bad decision leads Ben on a high speed chase with the cops, ending in a car accident, his dad finally has enough of Ben's acting out.
After packing up the minivan, Ben's dad and his partner, Edward, leave their home in Spokane, Washington and head off to Rough Butte, Montana, where Edward grew up. The already tense family dynamic is pushed to the breaking point in this new fishbowl environment, where everyone knows everybody else's business and homosexuality is not a welcome lifestyle. Coupling that with Miss Mae's (Edward's mom) acidic personality, things reach a boiling point fairly quickly.
But sometimes we need that kick in the butt wake-up call to get us moving in the right direction and, though fraught with a myriad of complications, Rough Butte seems just what the doctor ordered for this ailing family. Ben finds himself constantly tested by the next door neighbor, Mr. Hinks, who regularly beats his son, Billy, with whom Ben develops an unlikely friendship. In the midst of this drama, Ben finds an unlikely ally in the local Sheriff and a budding relationship with Kimberly Johan, a neighbor from just down the street. Through all the peaks and valleys, Miss Mae and her unwavering demand for respect and hard work constantly needles Ben to the point of madness, but there are many lessons to be learned from her once he succumbs to their battle of wills. Ben begins to take stock in the things that are important and is forced to make decisions based on integrity, honor and loyalty. As the story progresses and deepens, Ben discovers the importance of relationships and learns the value of personal integrity.
Ben is a character that will resonate with a lot of teens. He's headstrong and willful, at times downright selfish and vindictive, but he knows right from wrong, and even when he knowingly makes bad or hurtful choices he understands and accepts the consequences. His anger, though at times a tad over the top, is warranted and steeped in hurt. The relationship with his father is tense and combustible, leading to several heated moments as these characters naturally clash.
The supporting cast of characters deftly aid in the telling of this tale, adding the appropriate dynamics to make this a fully fleshed out story. Edward is kind and giving but a no-nonsense, tell-it-like-it-is kind of character that provides Ben some much needed insight into Ben's father's life. Miss Mae is a tough as nails matriarch, who won't accept disrespect or selfish behavior, oftentimes whacking Ben with a wooden spoon when he gets mouthy, but it's clear that she has a good heart and wants to see him succeed. Kim is down to earth and straightforward and brings out the best in Ben, making him strive to be a better person. Billy, like Ben himself, is suffering the devastation of a broken home, though his father's physical and psychological abuse have caused the eleven year old to shut down emotionally. This relationship allows Ben to examine his own loss more closely and provides him the opportunity to intervene, hence facing his own demons.
As challenges present themselves, Ben finds himself growing and maturing and coming to terms with his longstanding issues with his dad. This is a wonderful story about learning to accept the things in life one cannot change and embracing those we love. It tells the story of an unconventional family struggling to find common ground and facing challenges together. The foundational elements of this book deal with the aftermath of divorce, from Ben's perspective, and having a gay parent, but I think any teen going through a life altering situation can relate to his frustration, hurt and anger.
Though there's some rather frank sexual dialogue in the book, it's appropriate given the subject matter and tastefully handled as far as I'm concerned.
Benjamin is a troubled seventeen year old. That kind of character seems all too familiar, right? But the how and why of Benjamin's angst is far from normal. After his father comes out and reveals his true sexual orientation, thus destroying his marriage and sending his former wife running for the hills, Ben sets out on a course of self-destructive behavior. The formerly "good kid" takes up smoking pot, petty crimes and slacking at school. When a bad decision leads Ben on a high speed chase with the cops, ending in a car accident, his dad finally has enough of Ben's acting out.
After packing up the minivan, Ben's dad and his partner, Edward, leave their home in Spokane, Washington and head off to Rough Butte, Montana, where Edward grew up. The already tense family dynamic is pushed to the breaking point in this new fishbowl environment, where everyone knows everybody else's business and homosexuality is not a welcome lifestyle. Coupling that with Miss Mae's (Edward's mom) acidic personality, things reach a boiling point fairly quickly.
But sometimes we need that kick in the butt wake-up call to get us moving in the right direction and, though fraught with a myriad of complications, Rough Butte seems just what the doctor ordered for this ailing family. Ben finds himself constantly tested by the next door neighbor, Mr. Hinks, who regularly beats his son, Billy, with whom Ben develops an unlikely friendship. In the midst of this drama, Ben finds an unlikely ally in the local Sheriff and a budding relationship with Kimberly Johan, a neighbor from just down the street. Through all the peaks and valleys, Miss Mae and her unwavering demand for respect and hard work constantly needles Ben to the point of madness, but there are many lessons to be learned from her once he succumbs to their battle of wills. Ben begins to take stock in the things that are important and is forced to make decisions based on integrity, honor and loyalty. As the story progresses and deepens, Ben discovers the importance of relationships and learns the value of personal integrity.
Ben is a character that will resonate with a lot of teens. He's headstrong and willful, at times downright selfish and vindictive, but he knows right from wrong, and even when he knowingly makes bad or hurtful choices he understands and accepts the consequences. His anger, though at times a tad over the top, is warranted and steeped in hurt. The relationship with his father is tense and combustible, leading to several heated moments as these characters naturally clash.
The supporting cast of characters deftly aid in the telling of this tale, adding the appropriate dynamics to make this a fully fleshed out story. Edward is kind and giving but a no-nonsense, tell-it-like-it-is kind of character that provides Ben some much needed insight into Ben's father's life. Miss Mae is a tough as nails matriarch, who won't accept disrespect or selfish behavior, oftentimes whacking Ben with a wooden spoon when he gets mouthy, but it's clear that she has a good heart and wants to see him succeed. Kim is down to earth and straightforward and brings out the best in Ben, making him strive to be a better person. Billy, like Ben himself, is suffering the devastation of a broken home, though his father's physical and psychological abuse have caused the eleven year old to shut down emotionally. This relationship allows Ben to examine his own loss more closely and provides him the opportunity to intervene, hence facing his own demons.
As challenges present themselves, Ben finds himself growing and maturing and coming to terms with his longstanding issues with his dad. This is a wonderful story about learning to accept the things in life one cannot change and embracing those we love. It tells the story of an unconventional family struggling to find common ground and facing challenges together. The foundational elements of this book deal with the aftermath of divorce, from Ben's perspective, and having a gay parent, but I think any teen going through a life altering situation can relate to his frustration, hurt and anger.
Though there's some rather frank sexual dialogue in the book, it's appropriate given the subject matter and tastefully handled as far as I'm concerned.
July 29, 2009
Three years ago, Ben Campbell’s was as normal as could be. Then his dad suddenly announced he was gay. Now Ben has no mother, she walked out the door and never looked back. He’s doing every drug he can get his hands on. Then a year ago Ben cleaned himself up. For almost an entire year he hasn’t gotten into trouble, he’s done well in school, and he’s sort of civil with everyone. But then he goes and gets arrested and that’s that. His dad, and his “Momdad” Edward, take Ben and move him to the middle of nowhere, Rough Butte, Montana, population 400, to live with Edward’s mother Miss Mae.
So now, at the age of 17, Ben finds himself starting over all over again. Now the city boy has to learn to live in the backward country of Montana, where everyone drives huge trucks, wear Wrangler’s and Ropers, and works. Really works. But the hardest part is to come for now he has to deal with the creepy guy next door, big brother’s looking to scare the potential boyfriend away and a grandmother who isn’t afraid to whack him with a spoon at the first opportunity.
"The decoder card to the universe wasn’t included in the box of cereal God gave humanity. At the ripe old age of seventeen, I’d at least figured out that no matter how hard you try to guess what happens next, you can’t. Life wasn’t set up that way and we don’t like it, so we spend most of our time running around like a bunch of dimwits."
The best part of The Last Exit to Nowhere is Ben. Ben’s voice is spot on ‘teenager.’ He’s angry, sarcastic, challenging, very intelligent, honest, brash, stubborn, romantic, awkward, comical, depressed, and funny, and like most teenagers he shifts from one emotion to the next with surprising speed. Ben’s relationship with his dad was the best drawn plot of the book. It felt real and complex. The problems the two had, Ben accepting his father’s homosexuality, his father’s desire for that acceptance, but unwillingness to deal with it himself spoke true to me.
Harmon pulled no punches with this coming-of-age story. It actually left me in tears a couple of times. This story of a misfit boy who is struggling to fix all the lives around him while trying to figure out his own is powerful and a must read. Don’t miss it.
So now, at the age of 17, Ben finds himself starting over all over again. Now the city boy has to learn to live in the backward country of Montana, where everyone drives huge trucks, wear Wrangler’s and Ropers, and works. Really works. But the hardest part is to come for now he has to deal with the creepy guy next door, big brother’s looking to scare the potential boyfriend away and a grandmother who isn’t afraid to whack him with a spoon at the first opportunity.
"The decoder card to the universe wasn’t included in the box of cereal God gave humanity. At the ripe old age of seventeen, I’d at least figured out that no matter how hard you try to guess what happens next, you can’t. Life wasn’t set up that way and we don’t like it, so we spend most of our time running around like a bunch of dimwits."
The best part of The Last Exit to Nowhere is Ben. Ben’s voice is spot on ‘teenager.’ He’s angry, sarcastic, challenging, very intelligent, honest, brash, stubborn, romantic, awkward, comical, depressed, and funny, and like most teenagers he shifts from one emotion to the next with surprising speed. Ben’s relationship with his dad was the best drawn plot of the book. It felt real and complex. The problems the two had, Ben accepting his father’s homosexuality, his father’s desire for that acceptance, but unwillingness to deal with it himself spoke true to me.
Harmon pulled no punches with this coming-of-age story. It actually left me in tears a couple of times. This story of a misfit boy who is struggling to fix all the lives around him while trying to figure out his own is powerful and a must read. Don’t miss it.
July 1, 2010
Great book! What else can I say? I was hooked from the very beginning. This novel has an unusual theme that allows readers to delve into the story right from the first page.
Everything was fine for fourteen-year-old Ben Campbell until his dad stepped out of the closet and announced that he is a gay. Ben's peaceful world was ripped apart and his mom left. Ben got some counseling, but he misbehaved and rebelled, and after a few times, his dad decided to move to a small town in the middle of nowhere - Rough Butte to stay with Edward's mom, Miss Mae.
Miss Mae made Ben to adapt the ways of country people and changed his behaviour with her threatening (and sometimes real) punishments. Ben became respectful and hardworking after a series of 'intensive training' under the supervision of Miss Mae. Ben was attracted to Kimberly Johan, a beautiful girl in the area. He tried to win her heart, and finally, she became his girlfriend.
Ben found out that he couldn't forgive his dad completely, and his relationship with his dad strained even more after a fight between them. After discovering the Hinks family's secret, Ben was determined to help Billy (Ben's young neighbour) to escape his abusive father's non-stop torturing and achieve real happiness. Things were not so smooth with Ron Jamison, the famous teen-villain in town. By chance, Ben found out that something was not right about Ron and he realized that must stop Ron's aggressive, psychopathic ways to make sure nothing bad happens.
This story made me laugh at times - which I seldom do when I read books, and sometimes, I feel the suspense in the novel, and I always wonder what will happen next. I was really touched when Ben said he felt his father's love for him and vice versa in a simple way which touches the reader's heart so easily and naturally. This book is funny, exciting, touching and original at the same time. You will find yourself captivated by Ben's unusual experiences. In this story, Ben learned of love, acceptance, and responsibility. Michael Harmon did an excellent job in capturing a teenage boy's rage, his rebellious acts and emotions, and how he metamorphose from an adolescent into an adult. This book is a MUST-read!
Everything was fine for fourteen-year-old Ben Campbell until his dad stepped out of the closet and announced that he is a gay. Ben's peaceful world was ripped apart and his mom left. Ben got some counseling, but he misbehaved and rebelled, and after a few times, his dad decided to move to a small town in the middle of nowhere - Rough Butte to stay with Edward's mom, Miss Mae.
Miss Mae made Ben to adapt the ways of country people and changed his behaviour with her threatening (and sometimes real) punishments. Ben became respectful and hardworking after a series of 'intensive training' under the supervision of Miss Mae. Ben was attracted to Kimberly Johan, a beautiful girl in the area. He tried to win her heart, and finally, she became his girlfriend.
Ben found out that he couldn't forgive his dad completely, and his relationship with his dad strained even more after a fight between them. After discovering the Hinks family's secret, Ben was determined to help Billy (Ben's young neighbour) to escape his abusive father's non-stop torturing and achieve real happiness. Things were not so smooth with Ron Jamison, the famous teen-villain in town. By chance, Ben found out that something was not right about Ron and he realized that must stop Ron's aggressive, psychopathic ways to make sure nothing bad happens.
This story made me laugh at times - which I seldom do when I read books, and sometimes, I feel the suspense in the novel, and I always wonder what will happen next. I was really touched when Ben said he felt his father's love for him and vice versa in a simple way which touches the reader's heart so easily and naturally. This book is funny, exciting, touching and original at the same time. You will find yourself captivated by Ben's unusual experiences. In this story, Ben learned of love, acceptance, and responsibility. Michael Harmon did an excellent job in capturing a teenage boy's rage, his rebellious acts and emotions, and how he metamorphose from an adolescent into an adult. This book is a MUST-read!
January 9, 2014
This book begins with a 17 year old punk skater from the city named Ben. His life was good until his dad came out with his homosexuality and divorced Ben's mother. After that event Ben's life took a terrible downturn. He stopped attending school, started doing drugs and began to rebel against his father entirely. Ben's father, in attempt to prevent him from getting worse, moved this city skater to the one place his father could think of. In Rough Butte, Montana Ben begins to turn his life around. Ben gets a job, he gets a girlfriend, and he makes new friends. His neighbor thinks that Ben and his dad and his dads boyfriend are all going to burn in hell. The neighbor has a young boy who is regularly all by himself. Bullied and gutless Ben helps the neighbor kid which ends up in many issues because of his kind attempts.
I chose to read this book because when I read Skate I absolutely loved it. I believed that I would be able to find more books just as good if I was to follow the author. I have since read every book but one and been incredibly intrigued by all of them.
I was reaaly captured by the setting in this book I loved how the author was able to make it so I could picture every single detail with ease. I also loved the attitude of the character. I was entertained the entire time by the actions, and reactions of the character. I was unable to put the book down because I felt that I might miss something withtese unpredictable, funny characters.
I would reccomend this book to anyone interested in a realistic fiction book. I think that it portrays life very well; the family bonds and issues, the friend arguments and relationship problems. I think this book is good for everyone. But I would definitely reccomend it to someone that doesn't like reading very much. This authors books are what got me into reading.
The only thing I would caution caution someone with is that in the realistic nature of this book there is a usage of curse words. It is not very often and deinitely few and far in between but if that offends you I would then avoid this book.
I chose to read this book because when I read Skate I absolutely loved it. I believed that I would be able to find more books just as good if I was to follow the author. I have since read every book but one and been incredibly intrigued by all of them.
I was reaaly captured by the setting in this book I loved how the author was able to make it so I could picture every single detail with ease. I also loved the attitude of the character. I was entertained the entire time by the actions, and reactions of the character. I was unable to put the book down because I felt that I might miss something withtese unpredictable, funny characters.
I would reccomend this book to anyone interested in a realistic fiction book. I think that it portrays life very well; the family bonds and issues, the friend arguments and relationship problems. I think this book is good for everyone. But I would definitely reccomend it to someone that doesn't like reading very much. This authors books are what got me into reading.
The only thing I would caution caution someone with is that in the realistic nature of this book there is a usage of curse words. It is not very often and deinitely few and far in between but if that offends you I would then avoid this book.
May 5, 2015
First thing's first: this book was alright. Nothing spectacular, but not atrocious, either. Ben's sarcastic sense of humor is what made me decide to go from giving this book two stars (It Was Okay) to three stars (I liked it). Seriously. Some of his random outbursts to others (as well as his inner thoughts) had me laughing so hard that tears were coming out of my eyes. I even took pictures of some of my favorite lines and sent them to my co-blogger to get her to laugh, too.
The other thing I didn't really understand was how unrealistic it was. Ben goes from being some punky city boy, Mohawk and everything, but then he comes to a rural town and it takes him only about a week to meet a girl, "fall in love," and change his whole appearance and the way he acts. In the beginning of the book Ben is ranting about how he knows he isn't going to fit in at his new home. It takes him less than seven days to go from being the outcast to someone who blends in perfectly.
That whole part was just a great big "Huh????????????????".
However, it was still a nice story. It was an interesting plot, to see some kid have to deal with his family splitting up because his dad was leaving his mom for another man. It's definitely a type of story that I haven't read before. Ben's quirky sense of humor and random outburst kept me laughing the entire time.
All in all, The Last Exit to Normal was an insanely humorous book about what happens when your life gets thrown upside down and you're put in a totally new situation. I liked the book, and Ben's humor was definitely the best part. I'm impressed with Michael Harmon's books and hope to read more of them in the future - I just wish the ending of this one wasn't so rushed.
This is just a small piece of what I had to say about The Last Exit to Normal. Read the complete review on The Book Bratz by clicking HERE!
The other thing I didn't really understand was how unrealistic it was. Ben goes from being some punky city boy, Mohawk and everything, but then he comes to a rural town and it takes him only about a week to meet a girl, "fall in love," and change his whole appearance and the way he acts. In the beginning of the book Ben is ranting about how he knows he isn't going to fit in at his new home. It takes him less than seven days to go from being the outcast to someone who blends in perfectly.
That whole part was just a great big "Huh????????????????".
However, it was still a nice story. It was an interesting plot, to see some kid have to deal with his family splitting up because his dad was leaving his mom for another man. It's definitely a type of story that I haven't read before. Ben's quirky sense of humor and random outburst kept me laughing the entire time.
All in all, The Last Exit to Normal was an insanely humorous book about what happens when your life gets thrown upside down and you're put in a totally new situation. I liked the book, and Ben's humor was definitely the best part. I'm impressed with Michael Harmon's books and hope to read more of them in the future - I just wish the ending of this one wasn't so rushed.
This is just a small piece of what I had to say about The Last Exit to Normal. Read the complete review on The Book Bratz by clicking HERE!
September 17, 2011
Being surprised in a good way is one of my favorite things! I hadn't intended on reading this book when I started it the other day, but I inadvertently left my intended "next read" at home so went to plan B. Now don't get me wrong... when this book first came out I was intrigued enough to put it on my "I'll read it someday" list ...but publishers keep coming out with enticing stories that also caught my attention...so the day for reading The last Exit to Normal kept getting postponed. This is one of those times I'm so very glad that I misjudged a book finish-date and I ended up reading a book sooner than I'd planned.
This wonderful story "hooked" me from the first pages with it's sassy dialog, storyline and characters--it easily made its way into my head and heart. Being a Montanan I wondered how the setting would fit with this story(ever notice when a book or movie wants to depict desolate or "in the middle of nowhere" it's spelled M O N T A N A??) and all I can say is the author's choice of location was spot on. I know people and situations like the author describes--the story really works. This is one of those stories that is more than the sum of its parts. On one hand it is about a troubled teen trying to come to grips with a huge family-life change and situations beyond his control. It's also a story about stereotypes, mental-illness, making the best of situations, adaptability, resourcefulness and community. A lot of big ideas are woven into this story--great stuff for thematic discussions "...you can disagree about certain things people do, but to disrespect them because of it makes you less of a person....they live by different standards."
I will definitely be recommending this to teen readers who are looking for a great read with substance AND humor!
This wonderful story "hooked" me from the first pages with it's sassy dialog, storyline and characters--it easily made its way into my head and heart. Being a Montanan I wondered how the setting would fit with this story(ever notice when a book or movie wants to depict desolate or "in the middle of nowhere" it's spelled M O N T A N A??) and all I can say is the author's choice of location was spot on. I know people and situations like the author describes--the story really works. This is one of those stories that is more than the sum of its parts. On one hand it is about a troubled teen trying to come to grips with a huge family-life change and situations beyond his control. It's also a story about stereotypes, mental-illness, making the best of situations, adaptability, resourcefulness and community. A lot of big ideas are woven into this story--great stuff for thematic discussions "...you can disagree about certain things people do, but to disrespect them because of it makes you less of a person....they live by different standards."
I will definitely be recommending this to teen readers who are looking for a great read with substance AND humor!
October 12, 2012
I guess you could say really liking this book would be a bit of a stretch, but nonetheless a three just wasn't suitable for this book.
Ben was a pothead. Still is a mischievous skater boy (which I'm assuming is Harmon's style, since the back of the book is covered in comments about how great his book Skate was). A guy with a sarcastic side, but still a tiny shred of hope for love at first sight.
Instead of being about a teenage boy's crap-ups, it started with an explosion of old crap-ups that Ben's looking back on. He's forced to go off to the country, and being a city boy, is a hard transition as you may guess from the thousands of other books that have this plot too.
His dad came out as gay a couple of years ago, and Ben's mother walked out while Dad's boyfriend Edward moved in. A cliche plot, but it never hurts to read another story on an angry teenager's homophobia. This one was a bit more intense most of the gay parent books I've read, which added a lot to the rating and plot.
The characters weren't the most realistic--for example, Billy, the eleven year old next door, couldn't tell the difference between vegetarian and veterinarian. I don't know about you, but I knew the difference between those two when I was in kindergarten--but they had this real-ish feeling, like they were trying to connect with you and envelope you into their feelings of regret and anguish and joy.
The plot starts from one end and weaves its way all the way to another point, always connecting back to the first idea. Besides a few sexist points, this book could've been a lot better with a little more emotional detail. The emotional detail that was added to this was a great contribution, and the lesson is sweet and honest.
Ben was a pothead. Still is a mischievous skater boy (which I'm assuming is Harmon's style, since the back of the book is covered in comments about how great his book Skate was). A guy with a sarcastic side, but still a tiny shred of hope for love at first sight.
Instead of being about a teenage boy's crap-ups, it started with an explosion of old crap-ups that Ben's looking back on. He's forced to go off to the country, and being a city boy, is a hard transition as you may guess from the thousands of other books that have this plot too.
His dad came out as gay a couple of years ago, and Ben's mother walked out while Dad's boyfriend Edward moved in. A cliche plot, but it never hurts to read another story on an angry teenager's homophobia. This one was a bit more intense most of the gay parent books I've read, which added a lot to the rating and plot.
The characters weren't the most realistic--for example, Billy, the eleven year old next door, couldn't tell the difference between vegetarian and veterinarian. I don't know about you, but I knew the difference between those two when I was in kindergarten--but they had this real-ish feeling, like they were trying to connect with you and envelope you into their feelings of regret and anguish and joy.
The plot starts from one end and weaves its way all the way to another point, always connecting back to the first idea. Besides a few sexist points, this book could've been a lot better with a little more emotional detail. The emotional detail that was added to this was a great contribution, and the lesson is sweet and honest.
August 1, 2010
When I first picked up The Last Exit to normal I was extremely hopeful. The narration was funny and at times I even caught myself laughing out loud. The idea of the plot was enough to spark interest in me and I loved it... for a while.
I would love to say it was one of those books that just pleased me more and more with every page, but it really didn’t. I found myself hating the main character. Ben is always whining and unhappy. Whether it’s because he is upset at his father, Rough Butte or life in general he is never content. I found myself deeply disliking the character and his stream of unending ridiculous thoughts. His actions have no rhyme or reason; his life swirls around his PMS like mood swings and his constant obsession with the boy next door Billy.
Even the other characters were a disappointment; with no development to speak of and there are really no reasons why they talked to Ben in the first place. How did Ben get a girlfriend? They never really spend much time together and worst of all she didn’t change at all during the book. And it might just be me, but the first kiss between Ben and his gf happened ‘off-screen’ all we got was a bit of a comment in the narration later in the story. WHAT! Ron was even worse. He had no personality other than asshole and no job other than piss off everyone and possibly cause some seriously unnecessary damage. The only character I really liked was Bens girlfriend’s big brother. The tricks he does are funny and would have made for a great addition if the book were up to the challenge.
The ending left me with an unresolved sour taste in my mouth. I wouldn’t recommend this book. It’s just lacking some serious something.
I would love to say it was one of those books that just pleased me more and more with every page, but it really didn’t. I found myself hating the main character. Ben is always whining and unhappy. Whether it’s because he is upset at his father, Rough Butte or life in general he is never content. I found myself deeply disliking the character and his stream of unending ridiculous thoughts. His actions have no rhyme or reason; his life swirls around his PMS like mood swings and his constant obsession with the boy next door Billy.
Even the other characters were a disappointment; with no development to speak of and there are really no reasons why they talked to Ben in the first place. How did Ben get a girlfriend? They never really spend much time together and worst of all she didn’t change at all during the book. And it might just be me, but the first kiss between Ben and his gf happened ‘off-screen’ all we got was a bit of a comment in the narration later in the story. WHAT! Ron was even worse. He had no personality other than asshole and no job other than piss off everyone and possibly cause some seriously unnecessary damage. The only character I really liked was Bens girlfriend’s big brother. The tricks he does are funny and would have made for a great addition if the book were up to the challenge.
The ending left me with an unresolved sour taste in my mouth. I wouldn’t recommend this book. It’s just lacking some serious something.
December 23, 2019
Summary: After 17-year-old Ben’s dad announces that he’s gay, Ben rebels by skipping school and doing drugs. Then his dad decides they’re moving from the city to a small town in Montana. Trying to fit in while sporting a mohawk turns out to be the least of Ben’s problems.
Review: I wanted to love this book. I did love several aspects of it, and I am glad I read it. But it wasn’t one of my favorites.
Review: I wanted to love this book. I did love several aspects of it, and I am glad I read it. But it wasn’t one of my favorites.
May 29, 2011
Whenever I saw this book at the library, I would always get it mixed up with Nick Burd's The Vast Fields of Ordinary. I did finally get around to reading both this book and Burd's book this year, and while they do have some surface similarities (small towns, gay characters), they're quite different in tone.
Main character Ben is a difficult one to like -- an opinion shared by his immediate and extended family, it seems -- but he's an effective narrator for this story. Both the first chapter and the epilogue were clumsy in their handling of summarizing various plot points, but I can forgive the book that because Ben's voice was snarky and easy to follow.
I feel like Harmon was really ambitious in the emotional and psychological themes of the book -- that is, Ben's limited acceptance of his father's relationship with Edward, and his trying to piece together why he had such animosity for his father. This was somewhat hashed out in several arguments between Ben and his dad, and again in some of Ben's internal monologue, but it was still hard to follow his emotional motivation throughout the book.
Here's something you don't usually see: a romantic relationship that begins easily, continues without much drama, and is still -- minor spoiler -- going strong by the end of the book! Honestly, the relationship between Kim and Ben had very little tension involved at all, and maybe that was a good thing. I think it was there mainly because Ben needed someone in his corner, and it was nice that he and Kim got together right away.
Main character Ben is a difficult one to like -- an opinion shared by his immediate and extended family, it seems -- but he's an effective narrator for this story. Both the first chapter and the epilogue were clumsy in their handling of summarizing various plot points, but I can forgive the book that because Ben's voice was snarky and easy to follow.
I feel like Harmon was really ambitious in the emotional and psychological themes of the book -- that is, Ben's limited acceptance of his father's relationship with Edward, and his trying to piece together why he had such animosity for his father. This was somewhat hashed out in several arguments between Ben and his dad, and again in some of Ben's internal monologue, but it was still hard to follow his emotional motivation throughout the book.
Here's something you don't usually see: a romantic relationship that begins easily, continues without much drama, and is still -- minor spoiler -- going strong by the end of the book! Honestly, the relationship between Kim and Ben had very little tension involved at all, and maybe that was a good thing. I think it was there mainly because Ben needed someone in his corner, and it was nice that he and Kim got together right away.
June 13, 2017
I loved this book so much. This was the first book ever to make me feel like I was the main character. No matter how many books I read, I can never really visualize myself there. I mean, yeah, sometimes I do, but not throughout the whole book.
I really connected with the main character, too. Every time he was pissed, I was pissed. I probably hate his dad more than he does. Seriously, he's one of the funniest guys I've read about or even met. I pissed my parents off because I unintentionally became a little more sarcastic than usual while I was reading this.
It's also not often that you really see a gay guy be the bad guy anywhere in media these days, unless he's a pedophile, or a real person. They really made the dad real and human, and not some 'always right and good because I'm gay' kind of character.
It was also quite refreshing to see a delinquent that doesn't lie, and that openly does drugs and is rude. You also never see a bad parent quite like his dad. Not that bad, but still bad.
And with Billy, he was a mix of cute and creepy, which I think is how he was supposed to be. Both Edward and Kim were kick-ass, and I want to see more characters like them.
This book was great, and I seriously just wanted it to go on. What I mean is, is that I just wanted to read about Ben working at the Johan farm, and doing school at night. No joke.
But, if there was anything wrong with it (in my opinion) it's probably how quickly the ending came and went. I also don't like the 'explain what happens next' kind of ending.
It's that kind of ending that RUINED Ender's Game and the potential for a good sequel.
I really connected with the main character, too. Every time he was pissed, I was pissed. I probably hate his dad more than he does. Seriously, he's one of the funniest guys I've read about or even met. I pissed my parents off because I unintentionally became a little more sarcastic than usual while I was reading this.
It's also not often that you really see a gay guy be the bad guy anywhere in media these days, unless he's a pedophile, or a real person. They really made the dad real and human, and not some 'always right and good because I'm gay' kind of character.
It was also quite refreshing to see a delinquent that doesn't lie, and that openly does drugs and is rude. You also never see a bad parent quite like his dad. Not that bad, but still bad.
And with Billy, he was a mix of cute and creepy, which I think is how he was supposed to be. Both Edward and Kim were kick-ass, and I want to see more characters like them.
This book was great, and I seriously just wanted it to go on. What I mean is, is that I just wanted to read about Ben working at the Johan farm, and doing school at night. No joke.
But, if there was anything wrong with it (in my opinion) it's probably how quickly the ending came and went. I also don't like the 'explain what happens next' kind of ending.
It's that kind of ending that RUINED Ender's Game and the potential for a good sequel.
April 28, 2012
4.5 stars
I loved this book. It's a perfect mix of drama and humour.
Ben is a 17 year old boy with a not easy family life: his father comes out as gay to his wife and Ben when Ben is 14 and that is the start of a very difficult time for Ben. His mom leaves them both and Ben finds himself living with his dad and his dad's partner, Edward. He starts acting out, getting himself into more and more trouble, untill his father and Edward decide to move to Edward's hometowm, a small town in Montana, to live with Edward's old mother, Miss Mae. It's not easy for Ben to get used to a different kind of life and the difficult relationship with his father doesn't make things easier. But slowly, Ben learns to love the new place and the people he gets to know, and he also manages to finally make peace with his father and even find love.
I really loved that Ben never lost his humour. The story is told from his point of view and at times Ben made me laugh out loud, especially when he was confronted with the new life in Montana, which was something completely foreign to him and at times scary.
I also loved the way he decided he wanted, needed, to help the kid living next door, who's been abused by his own father for years.
I thought Ben was at the same time very vulnerable and very brave. His father coming out changed his life and Ben had trouble coming to terms with it, acting out as a form of revenge but also, I believe, in an attempt to seek attention. He's a very likable character and I found myself really rooting for him.
I loved this book. It's a perfect mix of drama and humour.
Ben is a 17 year old boy with a not easy family life: his father comes out as gay to his wife and Ben when Ben is 14 and that is the start of a very difficult time for Ben. His mom leaves them both and Ben finds himself living with his dad and his dad's partner, Edward. He starts acting out, getting himself into more and more trouble, untill his father and Edward decide to move to Edward's hometowm, a small town in Montana, to live with Edward's old mother, Miss Mae. It's not easy for Ben to get used to a different kind of life and the difficult relationship with his father doesn't make things easier. But slowly, Ben learns to love the new place and the people he gets to know, and he also manages to finally make peace with his father and even find love.
I really loved that Ben never lost his humour. The story is told from his point of view and at times Ben made me laugh out loud, especially when he was confronted with the new life in Montana, which was something completely foreign to him and at times scary.
I also loved the way he decided he wanted, needed, to help the kid living next door, who's been abused by his own father for years.
I thought Ben was at the same time very vulnerable and very brave. His father coming out changed his life and Ben had trouble coming to terms with it, acting out as a form of revenge but also, I believe, in an attempt to seek attention. He's a very likable character and I found myself really rooting for him.
September 14, 2009
Last Exit to Normal by Michael Harmon is the story of Ben Campbell and his life after his dad suddenly announces to Ben and his mother that he is gay. What happens tears Ben’s family apart. His mother leaves him with his dad and doesn’t look back. Ben tries to get even with his father by doing drugs and getting in trouble with the law. Finally Ben’s father and his boyfriend Edward move with Ben to Edwards’s hometown in Eastern Montana in hopes that they can get Ben away from the bad influences in his life. While there Ben learns a new way of life, and learns respect through a few knocks on the head by the incredible Miss Mae, Edward’s mother.
I really found myself enjoying this book a whole lot more than I thought I would. Although Ben was often belligerent, and sometime crude, he was a decent guy struggling to get through a very difficult situation. His life was essentially blown apart by his father’s sudden announcement, and Ben was reacting to it. It is at its essence, a story of a boy attempting to find his identity, do the right thing under difficult circumstances, and discover what kind of man he wants to be.
Cautions for sensitive readers: This book was very good, but the language could be very crude at times including references to sex acts. There is some violence in this book, as one of the major subplots deals with a young neighbor boy being physically and verbally abused by his father.
I really found myself enjoying this book a whole lot more than I thought I would. Although Ben was often belligerent, and sometime crude, he was a decent guy struggling to get through a very difficult situation. His life was essentially blown apart by his father’s sudden announcement, and Ben was reacting to it. It is at its essence, a story of a boy attempting to find his identity, do the right thing under difficult circumstances, and discover what kind of man he wants to be.
Cautions for sensitive readers: This book was very good, but the language could be very crude at times including references to sex acts. There is some violence in this book, as one of the major subplots deals with a young neighbor boy being physically and verbally abused by his father.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 6, 2013
Coming of age novels with an interesting, original and realistic male protagonist are hard to find. The Last Exit to Normal has a great one. Ben Campbell is a hard teen to like. Ben is angry and resentful. He is also funny in a cynical, snarky and sometimes very wise way. Like a lot of teens, he is unable to see beyond his anger to realize that he is creating his own misery. He has devoted the last three years to blaming his father for his unhappiness and getting revenge on his father for ruining his life. In a last desperate attempt to save his son, Ben's father moves the family to a tiny ranch town in Eastern Montana. For hipster street urban Ben, it is punishment. But to his dismay, small town Montana is not as terrible as Ben expected. As much as he hates it, there are some people he appreciates and activities he enjoys. There are also small town cultural rules he is determined to change - especially the one about staying out of others' business even when you suspect something horrible is going on next door. Slowly, with a lot of missteps and a lot of help from his new friends and neighbors, Ben finds his way back from bitter rebellious teen to a semi-happy decent human being.
December 3, 2017
Rebelling against his father's coming out when he was 13, Ben had continuous brushes with the law in Spokane, Washington. When Ben's father and his new spouse Edward move 17-year-old Ben from the city to a small town in Montana, Ben experiences a new type of life and new types of relationships. He befriends his 11-year-old neighbor who is being abused by his father and tries to help him find the mother who ran away (as did Ben's). He is led gently into small town ways by his new girlfriend and her scary brother, and he stands up to the town bully who just may be psychotic.
The novel is written with witty humor (I found myself laughing out loud), but I found the scenes between Ben and his father nonproductive and repetitive—which may have been the author's point—until they come to an understanding. Even though Ben is 17, I see this as a coming-of-age novel as Ben lets his 14-year-old self go and accomplishes multiple acts of heroism. Great characters—especially Edward's mother Miss Mae.
The novel is written with witty humor (I found myself laughing out loud), but I found the scenes between Ben and his father nonproductive and repetitive—which may have been the author's point—until they come to an understanding. Even though Ben is 17, I see this as a coming-of-age novel as Ben lets his 14-year-old self go and accomplishes multiple acts of heroism. Great characters—especially Edward's mother Miss Mae.
August 6, 2009
Ben Campbell's dad is gay and Ben is mad. His life is turned upside down and now he has to go live with his dad, his momdad, and his momdad's mother in rural Montana. Truly, I felt for the boy!
This book moves well. The only critical part is some of the dialogue, even the internal dialogue, which at times seemed forced, too adult-ish, and too prim. The title concept is evident throughout the book, but almost too much so.
But if nothing else, read it to enjoy the character of Miss Mae, momdad's mother! She is a gem.
This book moves well. The only critical part is some of the dialogue, even the internal dialogue, which at times seemed forced, too adult-ish, and too prim. The title concept is evident throughout the book, but almost too much so.
But if nothing else, read it to enjoy the character of Miss Mae, momdad's mother! She is a gem.
March 20, 2008
Ben has been acting out since his father came out and his mother left three years ago. To get him away from bad influences, his father and stepfather have taken him to live in a small town in Montana. He still has angry outbursts, and acts irresponsibly at times, but he begins to make peace with his situation and to take responsibility for his life. Ben is not a wholly believable character, and none of the other characters are well-fleshed out, but this was still an enjoyable read.
July 19, 2008
Ben's character is complex and thus felt very real to me. His struggle with his family and his growing independence revolves around his father's announcement that he is gay. But the book isn't limited to being a story about a kid with a gay dad. There are other characters and facets to the story that make it even more complex - from bullies to abusive relations at home, Ben finds that his new life (and the lives of others) in a small town in Montana is anything but perfect or "normal".
March 20, 2009
I enjoyed this coming of age story about a teen named Ben whose father breaks up the family by revealing that he is gay. After the mother leaves, Ben rebels by smoking, and getting in trouble with the law. So the father, along with his boyfriend, decide to move with Ben to Montana where Ben sticks out like a sore thumb but eventually makes peace with his Dad and his new circumstances. This was a good family themed tale with of course, a non-traditional family. I liked it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 156 reviews