Appropriate Applause

About the Book

Dear Father,
I am so sorry I am not the son you would like to have in your life. I have always wanted you to love me, just for who I am and nothing more. I just cannot be something I am not.
I know you feel that boys should only like girls and that boys should never feel the way some do for each other. I only know that I did not choose to feel this way, and it has been with me in my head ever since I can remember. If I am wrong, you need to blame nature and God, not me.
I love Vallie so very much and wish that we could have all been a close family. I know you would love him as I do if you could only have given him the chance. He has a beautiful heart and when he smiles he lights up my soul. I hope he can forgive me for leaving him.
Try not to fight with Mom so much for she loves you very much. Good-bye.
Love from your son,
Scott

About the Author

John Boyd Brandon is an artist who lives in Jemez Springs, New Mexico, with his partner of twenty-six years, Roy Joe Lee. He earned an MFA from Northern Illinois University. John is pictured sitting, with Roy behind him, and their three beloved kids surrounding them. This is his first novel.
Photo by Robert Horne.