A review by dallas_shattuck
Boys and Oil: Growing Up Gay in a Fractured Land by Taylor Brorby

5.0

Wow, what a memoir!

First of all, Brorby's lyrical writing and descriptions of North Dakota's landscape was mesmerizing. I've never been, but it sounds beautiful, and I can understand his love for this place. And I fully resonated with loving the place you grew up, but still knowing you need to get out. I think it's a message that will resonate with a lot of other readers, too.

This memoir made me feel a variety of emotions. I laughed and smiled at times, and I was also very sad. When Brorby's describes the night he was "outed" by his aunt (and his parents subsequent reaction)...I cried. When he later details the days he came out to his grandfathers, I SOBBED. His grandfathers are the epitome of unconditional love.

Overall, I really enjoyed this memoir and even learned about about environmental advocacy in North Dakota.

Thank you Netgally and Liveright Publishing for this gifted e-book!