Becoming a Man: Half a Life Story Study Guide

Becoming a Man: Half a Life Story Plot Summary

Preview of Becoming a Man: Half a Life Story Summary:

Paul Monette tells the story of his life: growing up gay in a world where he felt gay was seen as just not right. He grows up in Andover, Massachusetts, a primarily Catholic upper-middle class town. His loving parents soon add a younger brother to the family. After witnessing vicious bullies call a quiet nerdy classmate "homo," Paul learns that he must hide his homosexuality at all costs. He throws himself into the role of class clown and charmer, making every attempt to keep attention away from his sexuality. Paul's confusion increases as he begins experimenting sexually with neighborhood boys and his feelings grow. Outside of his sexual encounters, Paul never feels comfortable around boys his own age. Unable to understand their dirty jokes and completely inept when it comes to sports, he just isn't able to fit in with them.

Paul moves on from grade school to an all-boy...
(read more)