What They Always Tell Us by Martin Wilson

There is also an intriguing subplot in this story that deals with a young boy named Henry in search of his real father. It is a book that is calmly written and one that will take many readers with siblings on a trip down memory lane. This story contains characters with fresh voices. The gay relationship and intimate scenes between Nathen and Alex are maturely written in context of the plot.Īny male who has a brother struggling with a part of themselves as they mature will understand this story. The story works because this is the central theme of the story – not the supplemental gay themes. This is a great story of brotherly bonding. However, once James realizes his brother’s “true feelings”, the two grow closer together once more. Alex’s cry for attention during his suicide attempt backfires for him as he experiences increased bullying from former friends. The reader will discover the character of Alex as one who is caught in the confusing maturation process during high school – cut off from his friends because he is “not acting like them” – not dating, not chasing girls. REVIEW: This is a beautifully written coming-of-age story for both Alex and James – two brothers that were once close and have now grown apart due to lack of communication. However, little does he know that the side activities that Nathen and Alex engage in are more intimate than mere cross-country teammates. At first, James is glad that his brother is out of the house and doing something “normal”. To prepare, Nathen and Alex begin a training workout together and develop a close friendship. When James’ friend, Nathen, befriends Alex, Nathen encourages Alex to try out for the cross-country team. James’ beginning senior year is filled with questions about his brother’s suicide attempt and daily “weird” behavior. Alex becomes an isolated homebody, a recluse.

However no one, not even his once close brother, knows why Alex attempted suicide.Īlex’s beginning junior year is filled with studying, visits to his therapist, and avoidance from former friends such as Tyler. He is rushed to the hospital where he fortunately recovers. The school year begins with a big party at which time Alex chugs down a bottle of Pine Sol. The book takes the reader through an entire year of high school – James’ senior year and Alex’s junior year.

James and Alex are one grade level apart. People often considered them twins because they were similar in many ways. PLOT SUMMARY: James and Alex have grown up together as close siblings.

What They Always Tell Us by Martin Wilson