My Journey to Getting a GED at almost 50

Life has a funny way of throwing curveballs. I’m not shy about talking about my time leaving home and supporting myself as a street hustler, doing things a 16-year-old had no business doing. My real struggle came in high school. I never got to finish because of the homophobia I faced from my principal and guidance counselors. Their prejudice made an already tough time even harder. When I returned home after my journey and tried to resume my public education, I would have only been a year behind. But the principal, Frank Lay, told me I couldn’t come back because my ideas and the way I am would be like an infection within the student body. My dad sided with Frank Lay, not knowing the actual words spoken to me. When I told my dad that Frank Lay said I could not return to school and that I wanted to take it up with the school system, my dad’s reply was to leave it alone. He said they did well by my sister and it might be for the best that I don’t go back anyway. I was basically forced to leave school and give up my right to public education without a diploma. Years later, Frank Lay was the subject of not one but two lawsuits brought by the American Civil Liberties Union aka the ACLU. During my freshman and sophomore years, I had numerous run ins with Lay and the rest of the school staff. One day I will share a full account of my high school experience as well as stories regarding some things going on at school, no holds barred. The only person in the office who treated me fairly was a sweet secretary named Nita Reed, who also at times worked in the library. Fast forward to today, and here I am at 48, finally taking steps to get my GED.

One of the biggest blessings in this journey has been the company I currently work for. They’ve been incredibly supportive, not just emotionally but financially too. They’re covering the costs of my lessons and the tests, which has taken a huge weight off my shoulders and inspired me to finish high school, even though I’ve done well without a diploma. It’s amazing to work for a company that genuinely cares about personal growth and success.

So far, I’ve managed to pass the science, language arts, and social studies tests. Each one was a hurdle, but I got through them with a lot of hard work and a bit of luck. The feeling of passing those tests was incredible, like reclaiming a part of my life that I thought was lost forever. It’s been a mix of relief and pride, knowing that I’m capable of achieving this. For so many years, I felt like I shouldn’t bother investing the time, energy, and money.

Now, I’m staring down the final test: math. Math has always been my Achilles’ heel, and it’s even more daunting now because the curriculum has changed so much since I was in school. The thought of tackling it is terrifying, but I’m determined to push through. I’ve been putting in extra hours of study, and I’m hopeful that with enough preparation, I’ll be able to conquer this last challenge.

This journey has been a rollercoaster of emotions, but it’s also been incredibly rewarding. I’m grateful for the support I’ve received and proud of the progress I’ve made. If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that it’s never too late to chase your dreams and make them a reality. Here’s to passing that math test and finally getting my GED!

My Book Review of Nightmare Before Kissmas by Sara Raasch

The Nightmare Before Kissmas American Cover

I finished this book last night and have been so excited to write this review since chapter three. It will be released October 8, 2024...just 5 days away from the time I post this. I honestly had a hard time putting it down. If you’re looking for a holiday read that perfectly blends the spooky vibes of Halloween with the festive cheer of Christmas, Nightmare Before Kissmas by Sara Raasch is your go-to book. This quirky rom-com introduces us to Nicholas “Coal” Claus, the Prince of Christmas, and Hex, the Prince of Halloween. Their worlds collide in the most delightful way, creating a story that’s both heartwarming and hilariously chaotic. Raasch’s writing is engaging and witty, making it hard to put the book down once you start.

Hex, the Prince of Halloween

One of the standout aspects of this book is the character development. Coal and Hex are not just charming leads; they have depth and personality that make their romance believable and endearing. Coal’s golden-hearted nature contrasts beautifully with Hex’s more rebellious spirit, and their chemistry is off the charts. The supporting characters also add a lot of flavor to the story, making the world feel rich and vibrant.

Coal, the Prince of Christmas

Raasch does a fantastic job of balancing humor and emotion. There are plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, especially when the cultural quirks of Christmas and Halloween clash. But the book also touches on deeper themes, like the commercialization of holidays and the importance of staying true to oneself. It’s a fun read that also makes you think, which is a rare and delightful combination.

Overall, Nightmare Before Kissmas is a must-read for fans of holiday romances and paranormal comedies. It’s a fresh take on the holiday genre that will leave you smiling long after you’ve turned the last page. Whether you’re a fan of Christmas, Halloween, or just a good love story, this book has something for everyone. So grab a cup of hot cocoa, curl up by the fire, and dive into this enchanting tale!

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Discovering the Truth About My Middle & High School Bully

High school was a rough time for me, especially being gay in an environment that wasn’t always accepting. The administration, including the principal, Frank Lay, as well as counselors and other staff members at Pace High School, advised me and other queer students never to confirm our sexuality. I dealt with the same thing at Pace Middle School but on a more low-key level. I faced a lot of bullying and name-calling because I wasn’t exactly like the other boys. For years, I harbored resentment towards a kid in my grade named Kyle Norris, who I believed, and was led to believe by others, was the main culprit of a prank that went on for several weeks. The graffiti in the boys’ bathroom with my name on it and the love letters to Jason McBride, who I never even liked, were just a few of the humiliations I endured.

The graffiti was the start. Seeing my name scrawled on the bathroom wall with a sexual message directed at someone I had no interest in was like a punch to the gut when I walked in to see it. Kyle had come out of the bathroom and made a beeline directly to me to inform me that there was something in the bathroom that I needed to see. It felt like there was no escape from the constant ridicule. Shortly thereafter, there were the love letters to Jason McBride. Someone thought it would be funny to sign my name to them, making it look like I had a crush on him. It was mortifying, especially since I had no feelings for Jason at all. At one point, I was called into the office of Herb Cannon, our assistant principal. Herb presented himself as a bigoted judge with the assumption of guilt and threatened to get the police involved with the accusation of harassment. What really upset me was the fact that he mentioned he knew my family really well and knew they would be really ashamed of this situation. My sister was close with Herb; he was her basketball coach for a few years, taught her how to drive, and helped her get her driver’s license. I was mortified and never mentioned any of this to my family, though I now realize I should have. It’s interesting looking back, seeing the way that people who were in a position to help were blinded by their own bigotry.

For years, I blamed Kyle Norris for all of this. I was convinced he was the one behind the bullying because he always seemed to be the messenger when something would happen. I recently told my friend Jenny Reeves, who has remained friends with Kyle since high school, that every time I thought about high school, my anger towards him would flare up. Jenny decided it was time to clear the air between Kyle and me, and he and I chatted for hours, not only about the situation but our lives during and after school. The truth: Kyle was innocent. He wasn’t the person or connected to the people who tormented me. Kyle was simply the messenger or an individual who was in the wrong place at the wrong time. It was a shocking revelation that turned the way I thought of some of the people I went to school with upside down.

Finding out that Kyle wasn’t my bully was a mix of emotions. On one hand, I felt relief knowing that Kyle was innocent and I had wrongly accused him. On the other hand, I was angry at myself for holding onto that resentment for so long and letting it block my chance of a friendship that could have been. This shows how important it is to get the facts before jumping to conclusions.

This experience has taught me a lot about forgiveness and letting go of the past. It’s not easy to move on from the pain of bullying, but holding onto anger only hurts you in the long run. I’m still processing everything, but I’m hopeful that this new understanding will help me heal and move forward. Now that I’ve cleared the air with Kyle, we are actually friends. With all this said, some good things came out of the love letter situation. I became friends with Terry Kelly, another gay boy in middle school, and we shared each other’s secrets. I began to trust people less, which helped me become less gullible, and I learned how to see through people’s facades. Now that Kyle is no longer negatively living in my head rent-free, I wonder who the actual culprits were during my middle school years.

Expose Exposure Album Review

Exposé Exposure Album Cover

Exposure, the debut album by American girl group Exposé, was released on March 2, 1987, by Arista Records. I had heard Point of No Return on the radio as well as seen the video on MTV and VH1 and wanted this album badly and my parents were the "tape it off the radio" sort of people, not realizing there was much more to albums than what you hear on the radio. As a kid growing up in the 1980's, if we wanted physical copies of something, we more than likely found ourselves buying it from record stores like Turtles, Peaches and Record Bar or from places like TG&Y, K-Mart and *Zayre or as a lot of us really broke kids discovered, by creating fake names to get 12 free tapes from Columbia House or 6 free ones from RCA/BMG Music Service. Sometimes we had the good fortune of having a friend that has or at least has a sibling with the tape who allowed us to borrow theirs to make a copy of our own on a blank cassette tape, hopefully on brands like Sony, TDK, Maxell or at the very least, Memorex. Unfortunately, I had no friends that had this album and it always slipped my mind while I was creating fake name accounts with Columbia House. This album marked a significant moment in the late 80's dance-pop scene, reaching number 16 on the Billboard 200 and earning a double platinum certification by the RIAA in May 1990. The group, originally formed in 1984, consisted of members Sandra Casañas, Alejandra Lorenzo and Laurie Miller who were later replaced with Ann Curless, Jeanette Jurado, and Gioia Bruno. Exposure's release is sort of an odd one because the original release featured the 1984 version of Point of No Return with Alejandra Lorenzo on lead vocals but later printings and the compact disc featured the 1987 re-recording featuring Jeanette Jurado's vocals on lead. If you own this album, you may or may not realize the track Exposed to Love is the only number that featured the original lineup rather than being re-recorded by Ann, Jeanette and Gioia.

Celebrating my birthday with Gioia Bruno

The album features a mix of high-energy dance tracks and emotive ballads, showcasing the versatility of the three ladies known as Exposé. Among the standout tracks are Point of No Return, Come Go With Me, Seasons Change and my absolute favorite, Let Me Be the One which Gioia absolutely slays with her killer vocals. Each song on the album highlights the group’s ability to deliver catchy melodies and heartfelt lyrics, making “Exposure” a timeless piece in the pop and dance music genres.

The private concert Gioia did for us

I eventually purchased an actual CD copy of this album, in my late teens and have never parted with it. In 2017, it actually traveled with me from Atlanta to Mexico and Belize along with some of the original Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling and none other than the lady I adored as a kid, Gioia Bruno. Gioia was an absolute sweetheart during the cruise and not only shared a lot of her personal life and struggles but also insight of her solo career as well as her career as a 3rd of one of the most iconic girl groups of the 1980s. She was a riot to party with and also gave 2 epic private concerts for our group, one of which she sang happy birthday to me. I haven't been starstruck too many times in my life but upon meeting Gioia, I felt as if I was in the presence of royalty at first but her humble and genuine demeanor eased my nerves, she was also gracious enough to autograph my CD copy of Exposure, something I will always treasure.

Riding an elevator with Gioia

Exposé’s success with “Exposure” not only solidified their place in music history but also paved the way for future girl groups in the industry. The album’s production, led by Lewis A. Martineé, combined with the trio’s dynamic performances, created a sound that resonated with a wide audience. Whether you’re revisiting the hits or discovering them for the first time, “Exposure” remains a quintessential album that captures the essence of 80s pop music.

I’ve loved this album for ages, so when I found out in 2015 that Cherry Pop, a British indie label, released a deluxe edition, I was thrilled. It not only had all the classic tracks I adored but also an expanded track list and a bonus disc with remixes and dub versions from singles and maxi-singles, some of which had never been on CD before. Plus, it featured songs by the original lineup and versions by Gioia, Jeanette, and Ann. No matter which version you have, you’ll definitely be tapping your foot, singing along, or even dancing your butt off.

Back cover of the Cherry Pop release of Exposure

If you are interested in purchasing your very own NEW or used copy of Expose Exposure click this link to check out great deals on NEW and used records, cassette tapes and CDs at great prices

Madonna Blond Ambition World Tour 1990

Madonna Blond Ambition 1990 LaserDisc

The Blond Ambition World Tour is a gem for any Madonna enthusiast. Various performances were filmed throughout the tour, including the color musical footage used in the movie "Truth or Dare" which was filmed in Paris. The standalone performances that were officially released, filmed in Yokohama, Japan and Nice, France were only ever released on LaserDisc as Pioneer was the main sponsor of the tour. For a short time in the late 1990s, Madonna's fan club did offer a limited release of the Japanese performance on VHS. Rumors have circulated for years that either the Japanese or French shows would get a DVD release but it's never happened. Bootleg releases of performances in Houston, Texas as well as New Jersey have made it into the hands of collectors also. The Barcelona, Spain performance was filmed for Spanish television, in spite of technical issues and the fact that Madonna was miserable the entire time while putting on a top notch show and it has also made it's way into the hands of collectors. The 3 "official" recordings can be identified by Madonna's hairstyle and among fans the shows are known as: The One With the Ponytail (Yokohama) The One With the Poofy Hair (Barcelona) and then there's The One With the Curly Hair, also known as the Nice, France show. This review is drawn from the final show of Madonna's groundbreaking Blond Ambition World Tour in Nice, France, which aired on HBO a few hours after the tour wrapped up. While it's technically only available on LaserDisc, you can find DVD transfers on eBay as well as some brave souls periodically upload it to YouTube. No matter your viewing preference, it as a fun nostalgic trip back to 1990. The concert is a visual and auditory feast, featuring some of Madonna’s biggest hits like “Vogue” “Like a Prayer” “Express Yourself” and “Open Your Heart.” Each musical number is meticulously choreographed, blending provocative themes with high-energy dance routines.

Madonna with the iconic ponytail

Madonna’s costumes, designed by Jean-Paul Gaultier, are iconic. The most memorable is undoubtedly the cone bra corset, which has since become a symbol of pop culture. The stage sets are equally impressive, with elaborate backdrops and props that transform with each song, creating a dynamic and immersive experience.

The infamous Barcelona performance

However, the tour wasn’t without its challenges. Madonna faced criticism and controversy, particularly from religious groups, due to the provocative nature of her performances. The Vatican even condemned the tour, calling it blasphemous. Despite this, the tour was a commercial success and is often credited with redefining the modern pop concert.

Madonna during the European leg of the Blond Ambition Tour

Reviews at the time were mixed but leaned towards positive. The New York Times praised Madonna’s ability to blend spectacle with substance, noting that “her concerts are as much about theater as they are about music.” Rolling Stone highlighted the tour’s influence on future pop performances, stating that “Madonna has set a new standard for live shows.”

For years I had watched my VHS copies of The Virgin Tour as well as Ciao Italia aka The Who's That Girl Tour, the Virgin Tour being my favorite, until I saw this concert. This was the concert the brought my already obsessive fandom over the top. From Express Yourself to Open Your Heart, I was hooked. The arrangement of Like A Virgin, while not traditional, was naughty and unbelievable for the time but so very awesome. The arrangement of Like a Prayer was the remixed version found on the Immaculate Collection album which in my opinion is far superior to the original version on the Like A Prayer album. My absolute favorite number in the set list was the song she closed out the show with, Keep It Together, a minor hit from the Like A Prayer album. To this day, I am convinced if the live version, complete with the Family Affair intro, was released as a single in 1990, it would have made it into the top 10.

Overall, the Blond Ambition World Tour is a must-watch for anyone interested in the evolution of pop music and performance art. It captures a pivotal moment in Madonna’s career and showcases her as a trailblazer in the music industry.

If you are interested in acquiring your own copy of Blond Ambition on DVD click here to check out the eBay listings but remember, these are transfers from LD to DVD in spite of sellers claiming they are remastered in HD.

Rediscovering the Magic: Masters of the Universe Origins Action Figures

I was in the first or second grade when I received my first action figure for Christmas, two to be exact. Prince Adam and Skeletor from the Masters of the Universe. I'd not seen the television series at that point but I loved both figures. Adam's pink velvet vest was definitely something that caught my eye when I first opened the box. Over the years, I had collected a lot of the original figures, minus the ladies because my mom thought they were too much like dolls and she was convinced playing with dolls would contribute to my already gay personality. By the time I made it into the 6th grade, I had lost focus on action figures and moved on to collection records and tapes but I still loved my Masters of the Universe collection...that is until my dad conned me into giving my entire collection to a kid whose dad had recently left him and his mom...I found out years later when my dad confessed the reason the man left his wife was because she was having an affair...with my dad. My life is complicated for a very good reason...anyway back to the Masters of the Universe. Over time, the original line was discontinued and new figures were released with each reboot but nothing seemed to interesting to me....until I walked through the toy department of Walmart a few Novembers ago and spotted some familiar figures hanging on pegs....

Masters of the Universe Origins Wave 1

For fans of the iconic 1980s series, the Masters of the Universe Origins action figures are a nostalgic trip back to the days of epic battles between He-Man and Skeletor. Mattel brilliantly revived these classic characters, blending retro charm with modern design elements to captivate both longtime fans of the series and a new generation of kids. A Blast from the Past plus more...

Castle Grayskull Origins Line

The Masters of the Universe Origins line brought back the beloved 5.5-inch action figures, complete with the vibrant colors and dynamic poses that made the originals so memorable. Each figure features up to 16 points of articulation rather than the stiff legs and arms of the originals, allowing for a wide range of action-packed poses and storytelling possibilities. Whether it’s He-Man wielding his Power Sword or Skeletor plotting his next move, these figures are designed to bring the adventures of Eternia to life.

Masters of the Universe Origins Wave 2

Modern updates with retro flair. While mostly staying true to the original designs, the Origins figures incorporate modern updates. Some characters come with additional accessories and swappable parts, like extra heads for more expressive play. The packaging itself is a nod to the past, featuring retro-style artwork AND mini-comics that will make any collector’s heart skip a beat.

Masters of the Universe Origins Wave 3

Expanding the universe...The Origins line isn’t just about the main heroes and villains. It also includes a diverse cast of characters, vehicles, and playsets that expand the world of Eternia. From the mighty Battle Cat to the fearsome Panthor and iconic locations like Castle Grayskull and Snake Mountain, the collection offers endless opportunities for imaginative play and display.

Masters of the Universe Origins Wave 4

The original “He-Man and the Masters of the Universe” cartoon, which aired from 1983 to 1985, had a profound impact on pop culture. It was one of the most popular animated shows of the 80s and played a significant role in shaping the syndicated cartoon market. The series combined elements of science fiction, fantasy and adventure, creating a unique and captivating world that resonated with kids like me and adults. Its success not only boosted toy sales but also inspired a range of media, including comic books, a live-action film and multiple reboots. The show’s legacy continues to influence new generations, proving that The Power of Grayskull is truly timeless.

Masters of the Universe Origins Wave 5

For people like me, the Masters of the Universe Origins figures are more than just toys, they’re a piece of history. The attention to detail, the faithful recreation of beloved characters and the inclusion of mini comic books with each figure make them a must-have for any fan of the franchise. Plus, the figures’ affordability and availability make it easier than ever to build a comprehensive collection. Though at this time, to catch up with previous waves, you will spend a good bit of money on eBay or other 3rd party retailers.

Masters of the Universe Origins Wave 6

The Masters of the Universe Origins action figures are a perfect blend of nostalgia and innovation. They capture the essence of what made the original series so special while introducing new elements that enhance the play experience. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the world of Eternia, these figures are sure to bring joy and excitement to your collection.

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Date Me Bryson Keller by Kevin van Whye Book Review

Date Me Bryson Keller by Kevin van Whye

Date Me Bryson Keller North American cover

This YA romance was absolutely adorable, featuring a coming-out storyline that felt genuinely realistic, especially in regions of the US and the world where conservative religion still holds sway. I appreciated how Kai and Bryson were portrayed as real teenagers rather than exaggerated stereotypes. Their relationship reminds me a little bit of one I had with a classmate throughout middle and high school though our ending was nothing like Kai and Bryson. Often in YA novels, characters quote unlikely things or have peculiar hobbies that stretch believability. However, Kai’s aspirations to be a writer, his love for a band, his daily school drives with friends, and his struggle to keep his sexuality a secret all felt authentic and relatable. The romance between Kai and Bryson was incredibly sweet, showcasing some of the best chemistry I’ve encountered in a gay YA novel in a long time!

Date Me Bryson Keller UK Edition Cover

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Some of the blurbs from various authors and booksellers include:

"One of the most adorable, big-hearted, charming books in existence." --Becky Albertalli, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda

"I can't tell you how much joy [Date Me, Bryson Keller] brought me. One of the most adorable, big-hearted, charming books in existence." —Becky Albertalli, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda

“[A] fantastic love story. . . . Uplifting.” —BuzzFeed

"A poignant, cute queer love story that showers teens with support and shows that the hate will never win as long as we stick together." —The Nerd Daily

“An adorable featherlight romance.” —The Guardian

"A fun, feel-good story that shows the importance of having a strong support system, that love is love, and that everyone deserves to love and be loved." —School Library Journal

"This #ownvoices debut is scrupulously romantic. . . . A solid blend of swoon-worthy moments and minor injustices." —Kirkus Reviews

"[Kevin van Whye] writes a coming-out story with authority and empathy. . . . The execution is appealing, and readers, too, will want to date Bryson." —Booklist

"Debut author van Whye uses the dare to set up a book filled with good-natured sweetness." —Publishers Weekly

"A sweet romance and exploration of the ways we can accidentally fall in love. Adorable and authentic." —L. C. Rosen, author of Jack of Hearts (and Other Parts) and Camp

The basic storyline for those who love spoilers would be:

What If It's Us meets To All the Boys I've Loved Before in this upbeat and heartfelt boy-meets-boy romance that feels like a modern twist on a '90s rom-com! 

Everyone knows about the dare: Each week, Bryson Keller must date someone new--the first person to ask him out on Monday morning. 

But Kai Sheridan never expected Bryson to say yes to him. As the days go by, he discovers there's more to Bryson beneath the surface, and dating him begins to feel less like an act and more like the real thing. Kai knows how the story of a gay boy liking someone straight ends. With his heart on the line, he's awkwardly trying to navigate senior year at school, at home, and in the closet, all while grappling with the fact that this "relationship" will last only five days. After all, Bryson Keller is popular, good-looking, and straight . . . right?

Drawing on his own experiences, Kevin van Whye delivers an uplifting and poignant coming-out love story. Readers will root for Kai and Bryson to share their hearts with the world--and with each other.

About the Author: Kevin van Whye is a writer born and raised in South Africa, where his love for storytelling started at a young age. At four years old, he quit preschool because his teacher couldn't tell a story. Kevin's love affair with stories led him to film school to study script writing. Date Me, Bryson Keller is his first novel. Kevin currently lives in Johannesburg, and when he's not reading, he's writing stories that give his characters the happy rom-com endings they deserve. Find him at kevinvanwhye.com and on Instagram.

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Madonna Like a Prayer Original Release Album Review

Release Date: March 21, 1989 Record Label: Sire Records

Madonna Like A Prayer Album Cover

The day this album was released, I was at the Walmart in Milton, Florida bothering the lady in electronics to check in the back to see if the album came in. The lady was super sweet and came back with 2 cassette tapes, one for me and the other to go on the shelf. By the time the Like A Prayer album was released, the song Like A Prayer was already a megahit and was in constant rotation on the radio and MTV, partially due to the Pepsi deal gone wrong.

Among Madonna’s discography, Like a Prayer stands out as her most deliberate artistic endeavor. While it’s clear she aimed to create a “serious” album, the dazzling array of pop styles is truly impressive. From the funk of “Express Yourself” and “Keep It Together” to the haunting melodies of “Oh Father” and the title track “Like a Prayer,” Madonna showcases her exceptional songwriting skills, making this her most cohesive album at the time.

Singles from Like A Prayer

The album opens with the title track, “Like a Prayer,” which blends pop and gospel influences, creating a powerful and emotive anthem. “Express Yourself” follows with its upbeat, empowering message and funky rhythm. “Love Song,” a collaboration with Prince, adds a unique, experimental touch to the album.

“Till Death Do Us Part” delves into the complexities of a troubled marriage, reflecting Madonna’s personal experiences. “Promise to Try” is a poignant ballad about the loss of her mother, showcasing her vulnerability. “Cherish” brings a lighter, more playful tone with its catchy melody and romantic lyrics.

“Dear Jessie” is a whimsical, fairy-tale-like song that adds a touch of fantasy to the album. “Oh Father” is another deeply personal track, addressing her relationship with her father and the impact of her mother’s death. The album closes with “Act of Contrition,” a weird, unique and experimental piece that blends rock and religious themes.

If you were lucky enough to get the first printing of the album, no doubt you will remember the scent of patchouli, included to give the album an immersive church-like experience.

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The Darkness Outside Us Eliot Schrefer Book Review

The Darkness Outside Us by Eliot Schrefer

The Darkness Outside Us Cover Art

Hardcover Released June 1, 2021

Paperback Released May 10, 2022

Winner of the 2022 Stonewall Book Award

While sorting a shipment of books to be shelved in Ink, the main bookstore I work in, a book caught my eye. The cover of The Darkness Outside Us, a young adult LGBTQ+ book by Eliot Schrefer, looked interesting so I read the back cover and the first couple of pages and the story drew me in. I'm not really into Sci-Fi but in spite of being a Science Fiction & Dystopian Romance, I very much enjoyed The Darkness Outside Us.

I recently read a few books by Adam Silvera as well as Becky Albertalli. If you enjoy their writing style, imagine it being remixed with episodes of Black Mirror or Twilight Zone. Schrefer brilliantly encapsulated a dark, foreboding atmospheric feel to the story, almost giving you a claustrophobic vibe due to the fact these guys are on a spaceship. The first couple of chapters are a little slow but not bad and you don’t want to put it down because it sets up with a melancholic mood that continually builds and all of a sudden, you are hooked and want to know what's going on and what's going to happen. 

The story is set several centuries in the future with Ambrose and Kodiak on a mission to save Ambrose's sister from a fledgling colony on one of Jupiter's moons. I won't give away much more to this story because the less you know, the better your reading experience will be. As with most reviews I've read, the general consensus among all of us who have read it, it's a complicated story that the slightest of detail within the story could be a spoiler. I will say, it's classified as a romance book, and a love story is inevitable, the only thing I will say that doesn't spoil the story is about the journey and Ambrose and Kodiak finding themselves.

Some of the national trade reviews are quoted as:

They Both Die at the End meets Gravity in this mind-bending sci-fi mystery and tender love story about two boys aboard a spaceship sent on a rescue mission, from two-time National Book Award finalist Eliot Schrefer. Stonewall Honor Award winner!

Two boys, alone in space. Sworn enemies sent on the same rescue mission.

Ambrose wakes up on the Coordinated Endeavor with no memory of a launch. There’s more that doesn’t add up: evidence indicates strangers have been on board, the ship’s operating system is voiced by his mother, and his handsome, brooding shipmate has barricaded himself away. But nothing will stop Ambrose from making his mission succeed—not when he’s rescuing his own sister.

In order to survive the ship’s secrets, Ambrose and Kodiak will need to work together and learn to trust each other . . . especially once they discover what they are truly up against. Love might be the only way to survive.

* Chicago Public Library's Best of the Best Books of the Year * A Booklist Editor's Choice of the Year * A BCCB Blue Ribbon Book of the Year * A YALSA Best Fiction for Young Adults & Amazing Audiobooks for Young Adults Book of the Year *

A film adaption by Eliot Page's Pageboy productions has been announced though no details of a timeline of when it will be filmed, released or who will star.

If you enjoy The Darkness Between Us, you will be happy to know that Eliot Schrefer's sequel The Brightness Between Us will be released October 1, 2024 available at Libro.Fm, HudsonBooksellers.com, Amazon.com or your favorite book retailer. I already have an advance copy and will review it soon.

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Record Stores a re-worked memory

Years ago, I posted a blog regarding my love for record stores. I revisited it and while I feel it's still relevant to my life, I figured I would write a new post about the subject from a fresh perspective.

Sam Goody Store "Goody Got It"

Oh, the golden age of record stores! 🎵 I would do anything to return to the hallowed aisles filled with music—where vinyl sat in upright shelves waiting for someone to flip through, cassette tapes lining the walls and CD long boxes that stood on it's own enticing music lovers to upgrade their collections from analog to digital. Tower Records, Record Bar, Turtles, Coconuts and Peaches—they were more than stores; they were portals to sonic wonderlands.

My memories of the limited-time being able to visit a record store during my mom's infrequent pilgrimages to the mall resonate with me deeply. If I was given a chance to pick out something, the clock ticking, the pressure to choose wisely—it was like a musical scavenger hunt. My sister’s lightning-fast genre coverage is legendary! Metal, rap (or '80s rap, as it was known), pop/rock, she was a musical connoisseur on a mission. And there I was, eyeing the “M” section, hoping for a new gem by Madonna. 🎤💫

Typical Set Up of a 1980's Record Store

The decline of vinyl hit hard, but oh, that snap, crackle, and pop—it was part of the experience. My Emerson dual cassette boombox I received in the 7th grade and Emerson stereo with a turntable and single cassette player I got for Christmas in the 5th grade may have mangled my tunes, but they couldn’t dampen my enthusiasm for music, or creativity and ingenuity when it came to tape splicing and repair 

And let’s talk about the evolution of record stores. From a team of knowledgeable staff to today’s sparse crew, it’s a different landscape. By gone are the days when you could walk into a store and say you are looking for a song that goes something like....blah blah blah...and the sales person knows exactly what you are asking for. Now you have to be specific and even still they will ask “Who’s it by?”—ouch! But fear not, because old-timers like myself and possibly you as well as vinyl freaks can find solace in used record stores, like Fantasyland Records or Media Mania if you happen live in the Atlanta area. 🌟

There’s something irreplaceable about the feel and sound of vinyl. The warmth, the crackle, the tangible connection—it rocks worlds and spins memories. So here’s to the vinyl groove, the hidden gems, and the joy of discovering music in its physical form. 🎶✨

By the way, have you stumbled upon any rare vinyl finds lately? Or perhaps there’s a specific album that still eludes you? Let’s keep the musical conversation going! 🎧😊