The Straight Road to Kylie (by Nico Medina)
common sense media says
Racy gay-themed read is fun but contrived.
parents & educators say
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that this book features a gay protagonist who ultimately meets his first boyfriend. Along the way, he has sex with a girl, makes out with a bartender, and dares two girls to kiss. There's also plenty of underage drinking -- at the beginning of the book, Jonathan even has sex when he's drunk -- along with some swearing, and mentions of chain stores and fast food outlets.
Educational value:
This is pretty much an entertainment-only kind of book, but it could lead to some good conversations about how gay kids are treated in our society, at your kid's school, etc. See our "Families Can Talk About" section for some ideas.
Positive role models:
Jonathan doesn't always make good decisions, but he does ultimately learn that he has to be himself -- no matter how good the bribe.
Violence:
Not applicable.
Sex:
The book begins with gay Jonathan having drunken sex with a girl. He also kisses two guys, including his first real boyfriend. He makes out with his pretend girlfriend and challenges her to kiss another girl.
Language:
Some swearing, including "bitch" and "f--k."
Consumerism:
Jonathan works at Target. He eats at McDonald's, Chick-fil-A, etc.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking:
Lots of underage drinking at parties.
More on The Straight Road to Kylie
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Most useful reviews by all members
zyahpapaya
teen, 16 years old
teen, 16 years old
fantastic novel
amaazing book , i enjoyed it!
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