Ruff, Shawn Stewart. Finlater.  July 2008. 292 p. Quote Editions, $15.50 (978-1604023954). Gr. 9-12.

Cliffy Douglas is a 13-year-old African-American living in Cincinnati in the 1970’s who becomes friends with a Jewish schoolmate, Noah Baumgarten.  As their relationship develops, Cliffy and Noah begin a love affair that must navigate their newfound sense of sexual identity, dysfunctional family situations, and the racial and homophobic prejudices and dangers surrounding them.  Despite the cultural and sexual intolerances they encounter, Cliffy and Noah are carried through by their love for each other.  A tender and touching story told in sparse and raw language.  –Victor Schill