This is an exceptionally well-written and age-appropriate book about a boy's conflicting feelings after learning that his mother is gay. Initially upset, he expresses his thoughts in notebooks. Through these notebooks, the reader is able to understand Mel's fears (of losing his mother, of what others will think) and his own initial prejudices about Kristen, the girlfriend, because she is white. As feared, one of Mel's friends makes some disparaging remarks about his mother, and Mel punches him. However, Mel's other best friend supports him. Mel and his mom have a supportive and loving relationship. A message is made about the importance of living your life without worrying about other people's judgements. Homophobic slurs are made -- Mel's friends think his stamp collecting hobby is "faggy" and his mother is called a "dyke" and a "queer." Mel experiences his first kiss with Angie. Through the course of the book, Mel grows from a somewhat ignorant and close-minded boy to someone who understands that love comes in all colors and genders. He realizes that family and love are the most important things in life, regardless of the shape they may take.
