Freak Show
by James St. James

    FREAK SHOW by James St. James
    Category:  Contemporary
    Age Recommendation:  Grades 9+
    Release Date:  10/2/08
    Publisher:  Puffin
    Reviewed by:  Karin Librarian
    Rating:  5 Stars


    Billy Bloom has been forced to move to Florida for his senior year of High School. His mom, a little on the bi-
    polar side, couldn’t take his flamboyant attitude toward life anymore. Billy is a self-proclaimed “Gender
    Obscurist," a fabulously creative drag queen and a character that is resilient, lovable, and stronger than anyone
    ever would have imagined, including himself.

    After enduring unspeakable torture and bullying from his shell-shocked classmates, Billy ends up in the hospital
    and has a month-long recuperation period. During this time, Billy develops a deep friendship with Flip Kelly, the
    star and golden boy of the high school.

    Flip, the one who saved Billy from the angry mob of students and whisked him to the hospital. Flip, who is feeling
    the pressure to be the best from his family and the entire school. Flip, the guy Billy falls head-over-heels in love
    with.

    Billy relates his experiences at Eisenhower Academy with brutal honesty and laugh-out-loud humor. His decision
    to run for Homecoming Queen proves to be a true test of his character, strength, and resolve. Billy’s message of
    tolerance and acceptance is important for everyone to hear. After all, “Gender is a choice, not a life sentence.”

    No matter your gender persuasion, FREAK SHOW by James St. James is a delightful story of bravery, trust,
    love, and friendship. So put on your tiara and platform shoes and settle in for a FABULOUS ride.