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The Less-Dead
Noah Nordstrom has been dissing the religious beliefs of his father, who hosts a popular Christian radio show and whom Noah accuses of spreading hate. When two local gay teens are murdered, Noah’s anti-evangelism intensifies—he’s convinced that the killer is a caller on his dad’s program.
Then Noah meets Will Reed, a cool guy. But when he learns that Will is gay, Noah gets a little weirded out. Especially since Will seems really into him. Noah gives Will the brush-off. Meanwhile, the killer is still at large . . . and soon Noah finds the next victim. It’s Will.
Racked with guilt, Noah decides to investigate. He knows the serial killer is targeting gay teens, but only those who live in foster homes, whose deaths are not that important to society; they are the less-dead. Noah, however, is determined to prove that someone cares. With the help of Will’s journal, which he pocketed at the scene of the crime and in which the killer has written clues, Noah closes in on an opponent more dangerous than he can guess.
Then Noah meets Will Reed, a cool guy. But when he learns that Will is gay, Noah gets a little weirded out. Especially since Will seems really into him. Noah gives Will the brush-off. Meanwhile, the killer is still at large . . . and soon Noah finds the next victim. It’s Will.
Racked with guilt, Noah decides to investigate. He knows the serial killer is targeting gay teens, but only those who live in foster homes, whose deaths are not that important to society; they are the less-dead. Noah, however, is determined to prove that someone cares. With the help of Will’s journal, which he pocketed at the scene of the crime and in which the killer has written clues, Noah closes in on an opponent more dangerous than he can guess.
240 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 18, 2009
About the author
April Lurie
5 books75 followersI have the best job in the world - I write books for teens. I'm a former nurse, a native New Yorker, a wife, and a mother of four. I live near Austin, Texas, with my family, and I'm currently working on my next novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
November 14, 2009
So I am the first person to be write a review of this book in goodreads and am still thinking about how I felt. There are lots of good things about this book and a few not so great things. This is going to be long!
But first the basic premise, it is a murder mystery set in and around Austin involving a serial murderer who is killing gay, homeless teens in the name of god. It is as relevant and topical as it sounds.
The Good:
It is a pretty creepy mystery for most of the book, I thought it had good build up for about 3/4 of the book and then it kind of fell apart for me. However, the creepy factor (good in a murder mystery) existed throughout. Please not this book is not scary as much as creepy.
I think both the mystery and the lives of the characters have some really interesting premises. The main character is the rebellious son of a bible talk show host. Their relationship is very real, with lots of tension around religion around growing up etc. However, I also like that the father is not one dimensional. He acts like a father not just the bible talk show guy.
I think the premise that a person would be messed up enough to use religion as an excuse to perform hate murders I very realistic. There is also discussion about how internalized homophobia can create hate and/or drive people to be confused about religion as well. Finally, there is a critique of religious groups that say they welcome all people yet also support trying to cure homosexuality.
There are some other interesting characters that create a complex layered snapshot of a contemporary urban American community.
The relationship between the son and his friend Will (who is gay) is very, very good. It has lots of tension form both sides and I feel accurately portrays some of the struggles a young, straight, male teen in our culture might have to deal with to be friends with a gay guy. It also shows the patience and education the gay teen might have to be willing to show to overcome barriers to be be friends with a straight guy.
The author challenges some interesting generational things in our culture, the nature of religion and hate. The nature of faith. Can you think something is a sin but still respect people? Are Christians really reading the bible correctly, or just espousing hate? Who is in control of what it is to be a Christian and how is that defined?
The bad:
The dialoged often sounds fake especially between the teens themselves in the 2nd half of the book. The romantic relationship never feels anything but forced.
I think there might be a little too much going on in the book. There are so many issues, a secondary character simultaneously finds god and a girlfriend by joining the church but his dad is an atheist. One of the street characters is dealing with having lost a fiancé to a crazy college shooter, plus he was a professor but is now homeless. There are too many undercover cops etc. many of these things lend depth to the story but there are simply too many things happening.
The main character can be a very insightful and realistic teen and at other times seems to pat and too much like a stereotype teen.
I guess that is how I should wrap up this long review. I liked the book for the challenging ground it covered, it was often very intriguing. I thought the mystery was OK, and felt at times the character development was good. The book really was unique and I think topical. However, the mystery and relationships, dialog, really broke down at times. It was a much better philosophical book than a mystery or teen relationship book.
But first the basic premise, it is a murder mystery set in and around Austin involving a serial murderer who is killing gay, homeless teens in the name of god. It is as relevant and topical as it sounds.
The Good:
It is a pretty creepy mystery for most of the book, I thought it had good build up for about 3/4 of the book and then it kind of fell apart for me. However, the creepy factor (good in a murder mystery) existed throughout. Please not this book is not scary as much as creepy.
I think both the mystery and the lives of the characters have some really interesting premises. The main character is the rebellious son of a bible talk show host. Their relationship is very real, with lots of tension around religion around growing up etc. However, I also like that the father is not one dimensional. He acts like a father not just the bible talk show guy.
I think the premise that a person would be messed up enough to use religion as an excuse to perform hate murders I very realistic. There is also discussion about how internalized homophobia can create hate and/or drive people to be confused about religion as well. Finally, there is a critique of religious groups that say they welcome all people yet also support trying to cure homosexuality.
There are some other interesting characters that create a complex layered snapshot of a contemporary urban American community.
The relationship between the son and his friend Will (who is gay) is very, very good. It has lots of tension form both sides and I feel accurately portrays some of the struggles a young, straight, male teen in our culture might have to deal with to be friends with a gay guy. It also shows the patience and education the gay teen might have to be willing to show to overcome barriers to be be friends with a straight guy.
The author challenges some interesting generational things in our culture, the nature of religion and hate. The nature of faith. Can you think something is a sin but still respect people? Are Christians really reading the bible correctly, or just espousing hate? Who is in control of what it is to be a Christian and how is that defined?
The bad:
The dialoged often sounds fake especially between the teens themselves in the 2nd half of the book. The romantic relationship never feels anything but forced.
I think there might be a little too much going on in the book. There are so many issues, a secondary character simultaneously finds god and a girlfriend by joining the church but his dad is an atheist. One of the street characters is dealing with having lost a fiancé to a crazy college shooter, plus he was a professor but is now homeless. There are too many undercover cops etc. many of these things lend depth to the story but there are simply too many things happening.
The main character can be a very insightful and realistic teen and at other times seems to pat and too much like a stereotype teen.
I guess that is how I should wrap up this long review. I liked the book for the challenging ground it covered, it was often very intriguing. I thought the mystery was OK, and felt at times the character development was good. The book really was unique and I think topical. However, the mystery and relationships, dialog, really broke down at times. It was a much better philosophical book than a mystery or teen relationship book.
January 10, 2010
I am so pleased that I had the opportunity to read "The Less-Dead". I enjoy Young Adult books, but even moreso for the subject matter: the struggles between Christianity and the GLBT community.
Noah's father is a famous radio broadcaster who preaches mainlline Christianity, especially the message that homosexuality is a sin. When 2 gay foster youth are murdered, Noah becomes concerned for a new friend, Will, who is living on the streets.
Although some of the book had that "afterschool special" touch to it, on the whole it was very readable and I feel had a good message to share, especially with pre-teens/teens--that of tolerance, acceptance, and respect.
The mystery of the killer's identity made this more than just a book about tolerance, however. I do wish the book had been a bit longer, my only reason for giving it 4 instead of 5 stars.
This is the first Christian book I've read with such a loving message towards GLBT. As a Christian who is bisexual, I wish there had been books like this around growing up; perhaps I would have been able to help my friends who, at the time, hid their sexuality for fear of rejection. Perhaps it wouldn't have taken me so long to accept my identity.
At the end of the book is a list of resources for GLBT teens, the passages of the Bible that are traditionally used to bash gays (and what they probably mean, in historical context) as well as other texts.
I look forward to passing this book to my teen daughter, who is much more tolerant than I was at her age. This is a true gem, and I hope to see more books follow in its footsteps.
Noah's father is a famous radio broadcaster who preaches mainlline Christianity, especially the message that homosexuality is a sin. When 2 gay foster youth are murdered, Noah becomes concerned for a new friend, Will, who is living on the streets.
Although some of the book had that "afterschool special" touch to it, on the whole it was very readable and I feel had a good message to share, especially with pre-teens/teens--that of tolerance, acceptance, and respect.
The mystery of the killer's identity made this more than just a book about tolerance, however. I do wish the book had been a bit longer, my only reason for giving it 4 instead of 5 stars.
This is the first Christian book I've read with such a loving message towards GLBT. As a Christian who is bisexual, I wish there had been books like this around growing up; perhaps I would have been able to help my friends who, at the time, hid their sexuality for fear of rejection. Perhaps it wouldn't have taken me so long to accept my identity.
At the end of the book is a list of resources for GLBT teens, the passages of the Bible that are traditionally used to bash gays (and what they probably mean, in historical context) as well as other texts.
I look forward to passing this book to my teen daughter, who is much more tolerant than I was at her age. This is a true gem, and I hope to see more books follow in its footsteps.
December 29, 2021
Mystery with a message in Acceptance
I enjoyed this book. The story of young friends and their families who become part of a mystery when young gay men turn up dead in their community. Also a lesson on how religion can influence ones perception of others., and not in a good way.
I enjoyed this book. The story of young friends and their families who become part of a mystery when young gay men turn up dead in their community. Also a lesson on how religion can influence ones perception of others., and not in a good way.
February 17, 2020
Straight people need to learn that they are never going to be able to write a book about homophobia that actual queer people won't hate. I thought I learned my lesson with those with My Heartbeat, but apparently I didn't.
I put this book on my want-to-read shelf way back in 8th grade when I was desperate to find any books with LGBT representation, and today when I reread the summary on the back to refresh my memory on why I had wanted to read it, alarm bells were already going off in my mind.
The fact that a book about the discrimination and other problems faced by gay men written by a female author with a straight main character is the first big red flag. The second big red flag is that right in the plot summary on the cover, it mentions that gay people are being murdered (second red flag) and that one of the major plot elements is that the straight protagonist is uncomfortable with a gay guy having a crush on him (third red flag).
I think this youtube video on how LGBT representation was covered in 90's TV best explains my issues with this concept of gay stories being told through straight narrators written by straight authors: https://youtu.be/L--Fa8_ujBA text
But to quickly summarize: the entire purpose of the gay character's existence in this universe (including their brutal murders which isn't a spoiler because it says in the summary) is to teach the straight characters in the book a lesson.
On top of that, of course, we have to start out with our protagonist being at least slightly homophobic so that he has room for personal growth based off the brutal murders of gay people. This was how we ended up with the Will subplot. Will exists (just like all the other gay in this book) solely to teach Noah a lesson. The method in which Will teaches that method, though, is slightly different. While the first two murders are horrifying to everyone, to Noah's family they are something different because they think of gay people as a distant concept (even to Noah who doesn't go on the radio and explain why homosexuality is a sin, like his father does). When Will eats dinner with them they have to face the fact that they have actually met a gay person. While this is enough of a challenge for Noah's very homophobic parents and younger sister, since Noah is slightly more open minded he needed something more personal. This is how we ended up with Will having a crush on Noah.
According to every straight character in the book, Will's crush was very obvious (and thus something that was justified in talking and feeling uncomfortable about), but as a reader (and a gay reader) I don't think I would have been sure of even noticed if it weren't for characters outright stating it (and not providing any solid evidence). This leads to the second third of the book being mostly about Noah being uncomfortable with Will having a crush on him (even thought Will doesn't do anything about it) and justifying himself in those thoughts and being justified by other people in those thoughts by the fact that at least he doesn't hate gay people so much he refuses to talk to Will, so its alright.
We also get to see Noah express some "justified" homophobia when he is accused of being gay. I'm not even going to dive into that rabbit hole.
It's also worth mentioning that when the villain is finally revealed at the end, as part of his dramatic backstory we find out that the only gay man he knew before this was a pedophile (who he also killed). And that (although the author is a woman) there are no lesbians or any other members of the LGBT community even mentioned anywhere in the book.
I'm in no way saying that all LGBT representation has to be completely morally pure or that gay characters can't die, just that I'm so tired of straight people writing about other straight people being the real heroes in stories about LGB people suffering, and I want the three hours of my life that I want my mind wiped so I can forget this.
I put this book on my want-to-read shelf way back in 8th grade when I was desperate to find any books with LGBT representation, and today when I reread the summary on the back to refresh my memory on why I had wanted to read it, alarm bells were already going off in my mind.
The fact that a book about the discrimination and other problems faced by gay men written by a female author with a straight main character is the first big red flag. The second big red flag is that right in the plot summary on the cover, it mentions that gay people are being murdered (second red flag) and that one of the major plot elements is that the straight protagonist is uncomfortable with a gay guy having a crush on him (third red flag).
I think this youtube video on how LGBT representation was covered in 90's TV best explains my issues with this concept of gay stories being told through straight narrators written by straight authors: https://youtu.be/L--Fa8_ujBA text
But to quickly summarize: the entire purpose of the gay character's existence in this universe (including their brutal murders which isn't a spoiler because it says in the summary) is to teach the straight characters in the book a lesson.
On top of that, of course, we have to start out with our protagonist being at least slightly homophobic so that he has room for personal growth based off the brutal murders of gay people. This was how we ended up with the Will subplot. Will exists (just like all the other gay in this book) solely to teach Noah a lesson. The method in which Will teaches that method, though, is slightly different. While the first two murders are horrifying to everyone, to Noah's family they are something different because they think of gay people as a distant concept (even to Noah who doesn't go on the radio and explain why homosexuality is a sin, like his father does). When Will eats dinner with them they have to face the fact that they have actually met a gay person. While this is enough of a challenge for Noah's very homophobic parents and younger sister, since Noah is slightly more open minded he needed something more personal. This is how we ended up with Will having a crush on Noah.
According to every straight character in the book, Will's crush was very obvious (and thus something that was justified in talking and feeling uncomfortable about), but as a reader (and a gay reader) I don't think I would have been sure of even noticed if it weren't for characters outright stating it (and not providing any solid evidence). This leads to the second third of the book being mostly about Noah being uncomfortable with Will having a crush on him (even thought Will doesn't do anything about it) and justifying himself in those thoughts and being justified by other people in those thoughts by the fact that at least he doesn't hate gay people so much he refuses to talk to Will, so its alright.
We also get to see Noah express some "justified" homophobia when he is accused of being gay. I'm not even going to dive into that rabbit hole.
It's also worth mentioning that when the villain is finally revealed at the end, as part of his dramatic backstory we find out that the only gay man he knew before this was a pedophile (who he also killed). And that (although the author is a woman) there are no lesbians or any other members of the LGBT community even mentioned anywhere in the book.
I'm in no way saying that all LGBT representation has to be completely morally pure or that gay characters can't die, just that I'm so tired of straight people writing about other straight people being the real heroes in stories about LGB people suffering, and I want the three hours of my life that I want my mind wiped so I can forget this.
January 30, 2018
An interesting read about hate crimes, homeless people, foster kids, religion dealing with homosexuality, and a mystery. I had no clue who the killer was until close to the end of the novel. I liked how most of the characters were a bit enlightened by the end of the book and willing to make a change. Sad that it took a catalyst like the deaths of three young men to accomplish it. When Westboro Baptist Church was mentioned, I felt hate. They are the epitome of hatred toward so many people that they cannot be considered Christian.
I appreciated how the author ends the novel with a description of the passages in the Bible that supposedly mention homosexuality, and explains how it is always taken out of context, which is exactly was WBC does to further their cause.
I appreciated how the author ends the novel with a description of the passages in the Bible that supposedly mention homosexuality, and explains how it is always taken out of context, which is exactly was WBC does to further their cause.
January 21, 2024
a book i randomly read in high school that brought me back into reading as a fun pass time, i liked the book and finished it within a couple days, because of the mystery aspect and everything!
March 11, 2024
I absolutely loved it. The poems ❤️
March 1, 2012
I started reading the book this morning, and was done with it in less than four hours. I'm a college student with a busy schedule, but I didn't want to put the book down.
Now, the book is not without flaws (no creative work, written or otherwise, is), and I will outline what I felt could have used a little more polish, but in my opinion, it wasn't enough to detract from the story line, or from the rating. As a reader, I try my best to ignore the writer inside, and the reader in me enjoyed the book for what it was, and that's what the reader feels matters when it comes to the star rating.
What I enjoyed the most were the characters. They felt, for the most part, real, which is more than can be said for a lot of characters in other novels in this genre. Their personalities had weight to them, and most of them were unique and had their own flavor.
What I felt needed work, or could have been changed a little, was the way the poetry was handled. Considering the author was technically the one who wrote all the poetry, I found it a bit hard to take when most of the characters in the novel praised it.. :P
I felt that the reason Will was in foster care could have been different. Yes, car wrecks do happen, and that's terrible, but in YA novels they almost all happen in the same way and at the same age, and author's should be more original about it when going for a tragic history kind of thing, I think.
I didn't find the killer unbelievable, but I felt like there should have been a bit more build up to it. Things just sort of fell into place toward the end, and I found myself flipping back about a hundred or so pages to reread a section that was relevant to Will's death to see if it even added up.
See, readers know from the get go that Will is going to be murdered, so when the time pops up where it's going to happen, it's pretty obvious to the reader, and because of that, I feel like more care should have been given to that particular scene regarding how much time had passed. Later in the novel police conjecture that the killer would have spent quite a bit of time with the body, but looking back at the relevant scene, it doesn't seem like quite that much time had passed after all.
Also, I would have liked it if Will weren't connected to all the other kids who had been killed. I would have preferred it actually if it had come as more of a surprise in general. I think I just wish it hadn't been a journey of "okay, when is it going to happen" and had been more of a surprise or a shock.
It did bring tears to my eyes though, which I feel is a job well done on the author's part.
Now, the book is not without flaws (no creative work, written or otherwise, is), and I will outline what I felt could have used a little more polish, but in my opinion, it wasn't enough to detract from the story line, or from the rating. As a reader, I try my best to ignore the writer inside, and the reader in me enjoyed the book for what it was, and that's what the reader feels matters when it comes to the star rating.
What I enjoyed the most were the characters. They felt, for the most part, real, which is more than can be said for a lot of characters in other novels in this genre. Their personalities had weight to them, and most of them were unique and had their own flavor.
What I felt needed work, or could have been changed a little, was the way the poetry was handled. Considering the author was technically the one who wrote all the poetry, I found it a bit hard to take when most of the characters in the novel praised it.. :P
I felt that the reason Will was in foster care could have been different. Yes, car wrecks do happen, and that's terrible, but in YA novels they almost all happen in the same way and at the same age, and author's should be more original about it when going for a tragic history kind of thing, I think.
I didn't find the killer unbelievable, but I felt like there should have been a bit more build up to it. Things just sort of fell into place toward the end, and I found myself flipping back about a hundred or so pages to reread a section that was relevant to Will's death to see if it even added up.
See, readers know from the get go that Will is going to be murdered, so when the time pops up where it's going to happen, it's pretty obvious to the reader, and because of that, I feel like more care should have been given to that particular scene regarding how much time had passed. Later in the novel police conjecture that the killer would have spent quite a bit of time with the body, but looking back at the relevant scene, it doesn't seem like quite that much time had passed after all.
Also, I would have liked it if Will weren't connected to all the other kids who had been killed. I would have preferred it actually if it had come as more of a surprise in general. I think I just wish it hadn't been a journey of "okay, when is it going to happen" and had been more of a surprise or a shock.
It did bring tears to my eyes though, which I feel is a job well done on the author's part.
July 12, 2009
Reviewed by Sally Kruger aka "Readingjunky" for TeensReadToo.com
Raised in a strict evangelical home, author April Lurie explains in her author's note how closely she can relate to Noah Nordstrom, the main character in her latest book. THE LESS-DEAD is a compelling story of drama, religious frustrations, and murder.
Noah Nordstrom has been raised from birth to view religion and the Bible as the road map of life. His father is the well-known Bible Answer Guy whose radio talk show is extremely popular in the Bible-belt city of Austin, Texas. Maybe in rebellion against his father and his church upbringing, Noah has turned into a troublemaker. He attends a school for juvenile offenders and his parents attempt to keep him on a short leash.
Despite almost constant supervision, Noah and his friend, Carson, get out quite a bit using youth group activities as a cover. On one such outing, Noah meets Will, a foster kid living on the streets. Will's interest in poetry and music make for the beginning of a fast friendship. The two find they have a lot in common, although Carson lets Noah in on the fact that Will is gay and may be interested in more than simple friendship.
When Noah lets Will know he is straight and hoping to win back his ex-girlfriend, Aubrey, Will seems happy with just being friends and sharing their common interests. Noah invites Will to his house, thinking his father might be able to help Will find a place to stay, but when Mr. Nordstrom finds out Will is gay, his religious beliefs come between his son and the help he wants for his friend. Noah is furious, and the already fragile relationship with his father deteriorates even further.
A background bit of plot becomes central to the story as Noah and Will spend more time together. A gay teen is found murdered in Austin. The murder is classified as a hate crime and is soon connected to the religious community when the police arrest a former member of Noah's family's church. When a second gay teen is found dead, Noah begins to worry about his new friend's safety.
THE LESS-DEAD is packed with action and controversy. April Lurie will have readers questioning their prejudices and their views of traditional and contemporary religious beliefs. Teens living in circumstances similar to those of Noah and Will are going to find THE LESS-DEAD more than just an entertaining novel. Hopefully, they will learn they are not alone in their feelings of confusion and self-doubt. This is a story that offers huge potential for discussion and soul-searching.
Raised in a strict evangelical home, author April Lurie explains in her author's note how closely she can relate to Noah Nordstrom, the main character in her latest book. THE LESS-DEAD is a compelling story of drama, religious frustrations, and murder.
Noah Nordstrom has been raised from birth to view religion and the Bible as the road map of life. His father is the well-known Bible Answer Guy whose radio talk show is extremely popular in the Bible-belt city of Austin, Texas. Maybe in rebellion against his father and his church upbringing, Noah has turned into a troublemaker. He attends a school for juvenile offenders and his parents attempt to keep him on a short leash.
Despite almost constant supervision, Noah and his friend, Carson, get out quite a bit using youth group activities as a cover. On one such outing, Noah meets Will, a foster kid living on the streets. Will's interest in poetry and music make for the beginning of a fast friendship. The two find they have a lot in common, although Carson lets Noah in on the fact that Will is gay and may be interested in more than simple friendship.
When Noah lets Will know he is straight and hoping to win back his ex-girlfriend, Aubrey, Will seems happy with just being friends and sharing their common interests. Noah invites Will to his house, thinking his father might be able to help Will find a place to stay, but when Mr. Nordstrom finds out Will is gay, his religious beliefs come between his son and the help he wants for his friend. Noah is furious, and the already fragile relationship with his father deteriorates even further.
A background bit of plot becomes central to the story as Noah and Will spend more time together. A gay teen is found murdered in Austin. The murder is classified as a hate crime and is soon connected to the religious community when the police arrest a former member of Noah's family's church. When a second gay teen is found dead, Noah begins to worry about his new friend's safety.
THE LESS-DEAD is packed with action and controversy. April Lurie will have readers questioning their prejudices and their views of traditional and contemporary religious beliefs. Teens living in circumstances similar to those of Noah and Will are going to find THE LESS-DEAD more than just an entertaining novel. Hopefully, they will learn they are not alone in their feelings of confusion and self-doubt. This is a story that offers huge potential for discussion and soul-searching.
November 26, 2009
Hm....
I am not sure what to say about this book. So I'll start meagerly with the plot.
It's a mystery novel). And I'd like to point out that this is probably the first book that I've read revolving around homosexuality/Religion because I just never bothered picking a book like this. The plot, simply put is boy a meets boy b, boy a is at a disposition, rejecting his somewhat subconscious awkwardness around boy b, but boy b somewhere along the line is murdered so boy a, with all his cooped up guilt finds it in himself to play the role of Sherlock Holmes. And just for the record, Boy A is straight, giving yet another perspective and dimension to the story. I like that.
The plot is a giant eh-fest, (I mean it's a mystery first off and that's saying a lot because that was the primary reason I was originally uninterested in the book....)
but the real gem is within the whole main concept between religion and homosexuality. The story is very dense, and the relations between atheists and religion zealots and gays all mesh together very well. All the characters are believable and acts accordingly to their stereotypes but each, one time or another reaches a light slanted epiphany, proving my personal belief that anyone can change. Religious Zealots, douche bags, and atheist; everyone begins to look through glasses that they would otherwise discard. And that's what I love about this book.
My final thought is on the editor's note. Don't flip pass it. I honestly believe that the editor's note should be at the beginning and not at the end. So do not pass. Don't. Under this mystery disguised novel, there is a short essay on Homosexuality and Religion. The story will either be the cherry on top or just a grief. Regardless. I can say with confidence that this will not be a book that you will either hate or love, you'll like it. You will/probably. lol.
I am not sure what to say about this book. So I'll start meagerly with the plot.
It's a mystery novel). And I'd like to point out that this is probably the first book that I've read revolving around homosexuality/Religion because I just never bothered picking a book like this. The plot, simply put is boy a meets boy b, boy a is at a disposition, rejecting his somewhat subconscious awkwardness around boy b, but boy b somewhere along the line is murdered so boy a, with all his cooped up guilt finds it in himself to play the role of Sherlock Holmes. And just for the record, Boy A is straight, giving yet another perspective and dimension to the story. I like that.
The plot is a giant eh-fest, (I mean it's a mystery first off and that's saying a lot because that was the primary reason I was originally uninterested in the book....)
but the real gem is within the whole main concept between religion and homosexuality. The story is very dense, and the relations between atheists and religion zealots and gays all mesh together very well. All the characters are believable and acts accordingly to their stereotypes but each, one time or another reaches a light slanted epiphany, proving my personal belief that anyone can change. Religious Zealots, douche bags, and atheist; everyone begins to look through glasses that they would otherwise discard. And that's what I love about this book.
My final thought is on the editor's note. Don't flip pass it. I honestly believe that the editor's note should be at the beginning and not at the end. So do not pass. Don't. Under this mystery disguised novel, there is a short essay on Homosexuality and Religion. The story will either be the cherry on top or just a grief. Regardless. I can say with confidence that this will not be a book that you will either hate or love, you'll like it. You will/probably. lol.
June 2, 2013
It's not easy being the Bible Answer Guy's son. His dad's famous Christian radio show is just one more reason why Noah Nordstrom is rebelling against his parents, religion, and the church.
At a youth church retreat, Noah and his girlfriend Aubrey slip away into the woods to further their sex education. They're only making out, but Aubrey is the pastor's daughter and when they're caught, she's forbidden to see or talk to him again. This is made easier because Noah and his best friend Carson are sent to the Rock for eating crackers topped with apricot-hash at school. The Rock is the school district's sentence for behavior not suitable for regular schools.
Noah meets Will in downtown Austin where he and his friend Carson have gone to try out new songs for their musical combo. Will, a foster kid with no home, also attends school at the Rock. He, Will and Carson become friends. When Carson points out that Will is gay and seems to have a crush on Noah, Noah is thunderstruck. He doesn't have anything against gays and he considers the church's treatment of gays unchristian. He doesn't mind having a gay for a friend, but the crush thing freaks him out.
When Will is later found dead, Noah is ashamed of brushing him off. He'll never have the opportunity to make things right, but he is determined to find Will's murderer.
This is a suspenseful mystery and a coming-of-age novel that holds a strong message using controversial current events. It is the first YA book I've read about hate groups denouncing homosexuals and the violence that often results. Lurie includes scriptural interpretations at the back of the book that will interest readers of all ages.
At a youth church retreat, Noah and his girlfriend Aubrey slip away into the woods to further their sex education. They're only making out, but Aubrey is the pastor's daughter and when they're caught, she's forbidden to see or talk to him again. This is made easier because Noah and his best friend Carson are sent to the Rock for eating crackers topped with apricot-hash at school. The Rock is the school district's sentence for behavior not suitable for regular schools.
Noah meets Will in downtown Austin where he and his friend Carson have gone to try out new songs for their musical combo. Will, a foster kid with no home, also attends school at the Rock. He, Will and Carson become friends. When Carson points out that Will is gay and seems to have a crush on Noah, Noah is thunderstruck. He doesn't have anything against gays and he considers the church's treatment of gays unchristian. He doesn't mind having a gay for a friend, but the crush thing freaks him out.
When Will is later found dead, Noah is ashamed of brushing him off. He'll never have the opportunity to make things right, but he is determined to find Will's murderer.
This is a suspenseful mystery and a coming-of-age novel that holds a strong message using controversial current events. It is the first YA book I've read about hate groups denouncing homosexuals and the violence that often results. Lurie includes scriptural interpretations at the back of the book that will interest readers of all ages.
May 1, 2011
What a unique and well-told story! The intersection of sexuality and religion mixed with murder and family is so rich with detail, vagueness when necessary, and evocative that I really couldn't put it down and if I had to, I was thinking about it-- not so much the mystery of who the murderer of these gay foster kids but of the religious fanatacism, family values, and caring. Will, the third boy to be murdered in the Austin, TX area, is befriended by Noah, who's father is the "Bible answer guy" on local radio. Noah's best friend's father is a pastor at a large church in the area. But Will is troubled, by his past and the recent events that leave him in danger, yet there is something in Noah that Will wants to know and encourages Noah's musical talents but Will makes a move on Noah and though Noah thought he was open-minded, rejects Will and leaves in anger. Only to find Will the next day murdered like the other two boys previously (strangled with a Bible verse close by and a cross carved into their chest), which Noah now believes he is entangled in the drama.
I will not recount every character and plot point, but the cast of characters is not overwhelming, consequently, you know enough about each to understand Noah and at times, Will's life to have empathy. The murders themselves are graphic enough to feel anger and sadness that there are still feelings of hatred and violence against gays, and Noah's thoughts are thoughtful and relevant enough to get you to think about them as well.
I will not recount every character and plot point, but the cast of characters is not overwhelming, consequently, you know enough about each to understand Noah and at times, Will's life to have empathy. The murders themselves are graphic enough to feel anger and sadness that there are still feelings of hatred and violence against gays, and Noah's thoughts are thoughtful and relevant enough to get you to think about them as well.
August 13, 2014
50 word review:
Teen Literature. A serial killer murdering homeless gay males. A Hetero rebellious youth fighting against bible thumping father. The killer begins communicating with said rebel. Interestingly, teaches tolerance, acceptance, introspection, and that today's youth can change dogma.
Morality tale, semi-christian, wasn't sure what I was getting into, enjoyed it though.
Reblurb:
Not needed, origination blurb was well written as was the novel.
Publishers description:
Noah Nordstrom has been dissing the religious beliefs of his father, who hosts a popular Christian radio show and whom Noah accuses of spreading hate. When two local gay teens are murdered, Noah’s anti-evangelism intensifies—he’s convinced that the killer is a caller on his dad’s program.
Then Noah meets Will Reed, a cool guy. But when he learns that Will is gay, Noah gets a little weirded out. Especially since Will seems really into him. Noah gives Will the brush-off. Meanwhile, the killer is still at large . . . and soon Noah finds the next victim. It’s Will.
Racked with guilt, Noah decides to investigate. He knows the serial killer is targeting gay teens, but only those who live in foster homes, whose deaths are not that important to society; they are the less-dead. Noah, however, is determined to prove that someone cares. With the help of Will’s journal, which he pocketed at the scene of the crime and in which the killer has written clues, Noah closes in on an opponent more dangerous than he can guess.
Xposted from RawBlurb.com
Teen Literature. A serial killer murdering homeless gay males. A Hetero rebellious youth fighting against bible thumping father. The killer begins communicating with said rebel. Interestingly, teaches tolerance, acceptance, introspection, and that today's youth can change dogma.
Morality tale, semi-christian, wasn't sure what I was getting into, enjoyed it though.
Reblurb:
Not needed, origination blurb was well written as was the novel.
Publishers description:
Noah Nordstrom has been dissing the religious beliefs of his father, who hosts a popular Christian radio show and whom Noah accuses of spreading hate. When two local gay teens are murdered, Noah’s anti-evangelism intensifies—he’s convinced that the killer is a caller on his dad’s program.
Then Noah meets Will Reed, a cool guy. But when he learns that Will is gay, Noah gets a little weirded out. Especially since Will seems really into him. Noah gives Will the brush-off. Meanwhile, the killer is still at large . . . and soon Noah finds the next victim. It’s Will.
Racked with guilt, Noah decides to investigate. He knows the serial killer is targeting gay teens, but only those who live in foster homes, whose deaths are not that important to society; they are the less-dead. Noah, however, is determined to prove that someone cares. With the help of Will’s journal, which he pocketed at the scene of the crime and in which the killer has written clues, Noah closes in on an opponent more dangerous than he can guess.
Xposted from RawBlurb.com
August 23, 2010
Noah's beliefs couldn't be more different than his conservative father's. While his father is 'Bible Answer Man', the host of a popular religious radio show, Noah isn't sure he believes all - or even most - of what the bible says. He goes to church because he has to, and hangs out with the youth group because it’s the only time he gets to see the girl he has a crush on, but he can’t stand the hypocrisy of evangelical Christians, especially when it comes to gay rights. Noah thinks he’s totally okay with homosexuality, but when he learns that his new friend Will has a crush on him, his anti-homophobic convictions are put to the test.
What takes this book beyond your typical Christian vs. gay polemic/problem novel is the mystery surrounding who is responsible for a string of hate crime murders against local gay teenagers. Is it the deranged caller who has been calling Noah's father and ranting about gays, a member of the local branch of the Westoboro Baptist Church, or someone else entirely?
The book is pretty preachy, and Noah is awfully self-righteous (in that typically teenage way), but the mystery is suspenseful and it's very cool to see a straight male character making a stand against homophobia. I think Lurie will mostly be preaching to the choir with this novel, and it isn't the deepest book ever, but it's a solid read for teens who are interested in murder mysteries, religion, or GLBT issues.
What takes this book beyond your typical Christian vs. gay polemic/problem novel is the mystery surrounding who is responsible for a string of hate crime murders against local gay teenagers. Is it the deranged caller who has been calling Noah's father and ranting about gays, a member of the local branch of the Westoboro Baptist Church, or someone else entirely?
The book is pretty preachy, and Noah is awfully self-righteous (in that typically teenage way), but the mystery is suspenseful and it's very cool to see a straight male character making a stand against homophobia. I think Lurie will mostly be preaching to the choir with this novel, and it isn't the deepest book ever, but it's a solid read for teens who are interested in murder mysteries, religion, or GLBT issues.
December 27, 2009
Another reviewer on here has a more detailed but similar opinion than what I'll put down, but I'll drop my two cents worth anyhow. I don't read too many books aimed at the YA crowd, but this one struck me as different than the usual type of YA fiction that passes through my hands at work (vampires, fairies, girls with summer boy troubles, boys with summer girl problems, or even ones with weightier issues like anorexia, drug abuse, or teen pregnancy). At first glance this a "gay" story but really it's a murder mystery with a straight protagonist trying to figure out who killed his friend.
I don't know the audience this book is intended for but the issues brought up with homosexuality versus religion gets covered pretty well even if at times it seems to both be preaching to the choir and running down a checklist of talking points. Characters sometimes tend to become a mouthpiece for a certain point of view or important plot point before they go back to being themselves.
This is a murder mystery after all, so maybe due to some genre constraints and the size of the novel there wasn't enough room to expand the characters or plot as much as I would've liked. The characters are all interesting, but the plot does take some serious suspension of disbelief at times. All in all an interesting quick read.
I don't know the audience this book is intended for but the issues brought up with homosexuality versus religion gets covered pretty well even if at times it seems to both be preaching to the choir and running down a checklist of talking points. Characters sometimes tend to become a mouthpiece for a certain point of view or important plot point before they go back to being themselves.
This is a murder mystery after all, so maybe due to some genre constraints and the size of the novel there wasn't enough room to expand the characters or plot as much as I would've liked. The characters are all interesting, but the plot does take some serious suspension of disbelief at times. All in all an interesting quick read.
January 10, 2010
Noah's been raised in an Evangelical household. His father is the host of a popular conservative Christian radio show. However, Noah's rebellion against his upbringing has resulted in being placed in a special school for troubled teens. Lately, teen homeless gay boys have been turning up murdered, and Noah suspects one of the callers to his father's radio show as being the murderer. Noah has also met a new friend, Will, who is a young gay teen living on the streets. After Will is murdered (you find this out in the first chapter, so it isn't a spoiler), Noah takes it upon himself to find the killer. However, he may be the next target.
I appreciated the message of The Less-Dead, even if it came across heavy-handedly at times. Lurie has written a sensitive novel that shows the hypocrisy of religious people who claim to love everybody, yet persecute gays. She even includes a rebuttal in the back of the book against many of the popular arguments people make as to why the Bible shows that homosexuality is a sin. I think what I liked best was the inner conflict Noah feels when Will shows that he has feelings for him. Noah's always considered himself to be open-minded, but reacts in such a way that he feel ashamed of himself. It seemed a very real, genuine scene. I hope reading this book helps some people overcome hate, and learn to respect others' differences.
I appreciated the message of The Less-Dead, even if it came across heavy-handedly at times. Lurie has written a sensitive novel that shows the hypocrisy of religious people who claim to love everybody, yet persecute gays. She even includes a rebuttal in the back of the book against many of the popular arguments people make as to why the Bible shows that homosexuality is a sin. I think what I liked best was the inner conflict Noah feels when Will shows that he has feelings for him. Noah's always considered himself to be open-minded, but reacts in such a way that he feel ashamed of himself. It seemed a very real, genuine scene. I hope reading this book helps some people overcome hate, and learn to respect others' differences.
July 26, 2009
Oh. My. God.
I don't think I have ever read a book that is more... awesome? Inspiring? Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious? I dunno. But whatever it is, it's the best book I have ever read.
The Less-Dead is about Noah Nordstrom, who's father is this big Evangelical radio host, famous across the country. But lately, the station has been getting calls from a disguised voice, saying how much he hates gay people. Then, gay teenagers start showing up dead. But not just any gay teens; gay teens in foster homes, who don't have anyone who cares. They are the less-dead.
At the end of the book, the author explains the six "supposed" references to homosexuality in the Bible-- and they can all be explained in history, and none of them really have anything to do with homosexuality.
April Lurie has written another masterpiece. I plan to make everyone I know read this book.
I don't think I have ever read a book that is more... awesome? Inspiring? Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious? I dunno. But whatever it is, it's the best book I have ever read.
The Less-Dead is about Noah Nordstrom, who's father is this big Evangelical radio host, famous across the country. But lately, the station has been getting calls from a disguised voice, saying how much he hates gay people. Then, gay teenagers start showing up dead. But not just any gay teens; gay teens in foster homes, who don't have anyone who cares. They are the less-dead.
At the end of the book, the author explains the six "supposed" references to homosexuality in the Bible-- and they can all be explained in history, and none of them really have anything to do with homosexuality.
April Lurie has written another masterpiece. I plan to make everyone I know read this book.
October 8, 2009
Fantastic!
I felt like I was running out of air in this book….I wanted to jump in the story and help Noah resolved the whole plot.
Perfectly executed and with a pace that is beyond smooth “the Less-Dead” is incredible with characters with so many different “colors” and emotions…some you will love, some will creep you out and a few time you might want to smack them (just kidding) I enjoyed the music and poetry reference in the book.
I adore the surprise factor in the end and how during the entire book you kept guessing but never close enough to make a final decision.
And last but not least I love the message of accept each other of being religious but not prejudice.
I can’t believe I wait so long to read this book…I hope you don’t wait as long as I did because you’ll be missing out big time!
I felt like I was running out of air in this book….I wanted to jump in the story and help Noah resolved the whole plot.
Perfectly executed and with a pace that is beyond smooth “the Less-Dead” is incredible with characters with so many different “colors” and emotions…some you will love, some will creep you out and a few time you might want to smack them (just kidding) I enjoyed the music and poetry reference in the book.
I adore the surprise factor in the end and how during the entire book you kept guessing but never close enough to make a final decision.
And last but not least I love the message of accept each other of being religious but not prejudice.
I can’t believe I wait so long to read this book…I hope you don’t wait as long as I did because you’ll be missing out big time!
February 5, 2014
The Less Dead was a thrilling suspenseful ride. Noah stumbles on clues to a serial killer who is targeting LGBT teens who are "less dead" due to having no family to care if they are gone. Lurie tackles some heavy issues along the way, mostly dealing with the evangelical community and their views of homosexuality. I usually avoid books with religion in them like the plague.....but the main character being angry and unhappy with his upbringing (he calls it brainwashing many times) struck a chord for me. I too was a teen who was in the evangelical community and Noah's struggles reminded me a lot of some of my own struggles. Sometimes the religious angle dragged the story down for me, but perhaps it's my own sensitivity to the issue that made it feel that way? I did enjoy the story and it was a very quick read, great for a reluctant reader.
August 10, 2010
Noah is the son of the "Bible guy" on the radio, but he doesn't agree with his father's conservative interpretations. When someone begins murdering gay teenagers, Noah begins to think that it's one of his father's listeners. This is an interesting story with lots of thought-provoking ideas. There is a great deal of discussion about being gay and a great deal of criticism for the conservative religious positions. But in the end, it's a great story of questioning, friendship, growing up and making one's own decisions.
July 19, 2011
Not my favorite April Lurie book, but still a delight to read (if murder mysteries can be described as delightful!) I particularly love that it's set in Austin, so I know almost every scene's setting quite well...I wouldn't recommend that a person start with this one if they've never read Lurie (start with Dylan Fontaine or Brothers, Boyfriends, & Other Criminal Minds), but I'd still recommend it to anyone who likes the murder mystery thing, particularly some of my former 8th graders...I wish it would have been out when I had a couple of them in class three years ago, they'd have LOVED it!
March 28, 2016
MsW: I so appreciated this story; set in Austin, believable, centered around themes I believe are relevant and worth pondering. Why would Will, a likeable, gentle young street kid be brutally strangled? What is meant by "less dead" in a realistic novel? How are the two closely tied to the religious zeal and dogma that so many parents drill into their children? If these themes intrigue you, you'll really enjoy this one... WHS_lib call# Mystery_F_LUR.
July 23, 2012
Disturbing and upsetting in all the best ways. I loved the way it opened, perfect for grabbing my attention, but then as we got to know Will (who was the most likable character of all), those words really sank in. I had to read it again at the midpoint, whereupon I actually felt sick. The unraveling of the mystery was just as fascinating as the setup.
November 14, 2012
Noah’s friend Will is one of the ‘less dead’, an outcast with no family, no home, a gay teen on the outside. No one will really care for a nobody in a pauper’s grave once the headlines about his murder have passed. But Noah won’t have it. He’ll put it all on the line, his freedom, his family, even his life to acknowledge the bright light that was his friend, and maybe stop the next murder.
November 25, 2012
I'm glad I read this book. What I really liked and would give it 4 stars is for the approach and handling of a subject so many avoid to read. How gently yet realistically the story unfolds to make a reader assess their own judgments. This is a story about homosexuality without "displaying" it. Ev
July 22, 2013
Creepy, mysterious and bittersweet with a hint of religion, it's a definite spin on all of these especially when sex orientation is involved. I read this book non stop for 4 hours and Noah the son of the Bible answer guy brings it together from the poems to figuring it out and to the finale finding the culprit. Full of details and verses full of the bible it's a book to read.
Read
July 27, 2013Graded By: Meghan
Cover Story: The Less-Bad
BFF Charm: Yeah
Swoonworthy Scale: 2
Talky Talk: Preach It, Sister!
Bonus Factors: ATX, LGBTQ
Anti-Bonus/Bonus Factor: Poetry
Relationship Status: Show Buddy
Read the full book report here.
Cover Story: The Less-Bad
BFF Charm: Yeah
Swoonworthy Scale: 2
Talky Talk: Preach It, Sister!
Bonus Factors: ATX, LGBTQ
Anti-Bonus/Bonus Factor: Poetry
Relationship Status: Show Buddy
Read the full book report here.
January 22, 2015
It's really exciting and this book hooks you to read. I really liked the mystery and the topic of the book. The end and also the main idea of the book is different than the other mystery-novels. This is why I think whoever likes to read mystery books should read this book. I recommend this book to Zorbey, Zeynep and Kerem E. because I think that they would like to read an interesting book.
July 26, 2010
This book has a very important message that I feel very strongly about. I liked what the author did with showing this especially with the son who questions his father's anti-gay message. This book has stayed with me. Review will come soon!
August 10, 2010
It was a bit unusual in the beginning, but once you meet Will you're hooked. In the end you must remember and I quote:
"Jesus was betrayed by a friend!"
The main character Noah's father is The Bible Answer Guy and Noah must set out to find the killer of the less-Dead!
"Jesus was betrayed by a friend!"
The main character Noah's father is The Bible Answer Guy and Noah must set out to find the killer of the less-Dead!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews