Wow, this one is going to stay with me for some time. I have to admit it took me quite a few pages to become hooked, partly because there were times when I couldn't tell if he was experiencing a reality induced by drugs, dreams, or possibly hallucinations induced by reactions to the electroshock therapy. And I didn't always get what was happening. But slowly, as Jonathan's and Webb's relationship started developing and I started getting used to the style, I became hooked. This was NOT an easy book to listen to. As you can imagine, electroshock therapy was so painful to hear about. And it was so sad to hear Jonathan talk about his desires as a mental illness. I think I had forgotten that homosexuality was on the DSM until 1973, so it was both horrifying and interesting to see it used in this book. This book was narrated by Tom Picasso and he was the perfect voice for this. I thought he brought Jonathan to life and when he spoke in Hal's voice, I just wanted to shrink away and/or punch him in the face.

This was NOT an easy book to read and if you're triggered by homophobia, internalized homophobia, racism, attempted sexual assault/pedophilia, and electroshock therapy, you may want to give this book a pass. But I fell in love with Jonathan and Webb, and I also loved Webb's family and learning about the Indian Two-spirits. And as much as it was not easy to read about, I'm glad I was reminded of how much of a shift it was when they finally removed homosexuality from the DSM. And the ending was not perfect, but it was hopeful, and I teared up for him with happiness. I could have done without as much of the metaphorical/metaphysical stuff, mostly because I didn't truly "get it" but I am really glad I gave this book a try.

Of course, now I need to go listen to some David Bowie, especially Starman.