Not Just a Boy by Jonathan Hill — Reviewed by Guy Portman
When two friends move to a new school, Bucky integrates effortlessly whilst the other, the story’s introverted and studious main character, does not. To exacerbate matters he finds himself attracted to his outgoing and popular friend. The other boys notice this infatuation, resulting in him being harassed unrelentingly.
Not Just a Boy is an authentic and atmospheric coming-of-age novella, boasting plausible characters and a confused but candid protagonist. Themes include homosexuality and bullying. Despite its short length (78 pages) the author adroitly captures the feeling of being an outsider. Readers will empathise with the adolescent protagonist, even if they do not share his sexual inclinations.
