Caught in the Crossfire

Gr 10 Up—Sixteen-year-old Jonathan is back at Spirit Lake Bible Camp for the seventh summer in a row while his dad serves in Iraq. But this year he can't focus on singalongs, arts and crafts, or even worry about his dad, because he finds himself attracted to a new camper, Ian. Jonathan spends the month of camp torn between the evangelical faith in which he was raised and his relationship with Ian, which they consummate in a fairly explicit scene. While the camp director considers Jonathan's feelings for Ian a "satanic attack," a sympathetic counselor offers Scriptural support for loving, committed same-sex relationships. With the latter's help, Jonathan begins to accept his sexuality and consider coming out to his parents. This well-intentioned effort may fill a niche for teens who identify as both gay and Christian, especially those from military families. However, the frequent use of clichéd language, stereotyped characters (including a local Ojibwe biologist), and well-worn plot devices will limit the book's appeal.—Sarah Stone, San Francisco Public Library