The sequel to Alan Cole Is Not a Coward, this volume picks up after Alan came out to his school, but before his parents know he is gay. Alan and his bullying brother Nathan have reached an uneasy truce, but Alan can’t tell their parents that a school bully is physically abusing him.
His father also doesn’t see why Alan wants to apply for a prestigious six-week art academy course, thinking there are better skills for a boy to learn. He finally bends slightly under the influence of Alan’s mother, and says he’ll agree if Alan takes his boss’ daughter to the school dance, thus helping the dad’s promotion prospects. Alan doesn’t like dancing or girls, however. Adding to the complications are Alan’s possibly romantic feelings for new kid Odin, who is also competing for the single art academy spot. While that’s a lot to handle, Alan’s friends offer support, even though their friendships, too, are shifting as middle school friendships often do.
As with the first book, bullying and family trauma make this a difficult and potentially triggering read at times—some readers may prefer to avoid it—but Alan’s growing friendships and ultimate bravery again offer a message of hope.
Alan and his family are White.
