“Paul Yee's novel is a valuable intervention into the representation of gay and lesbian experience in the young adult genre.” — Huai-Yang Lim, CM Magazine
Description
An American Library Association Youth Media Award Stonewall Honor Book
Ray Liu knows he should be happy. He lives in a big suburban house with all the latest electronic gadgets, and even finds plenty of time to indulge in his love of gaming. He needs the escape. It’s tough getting grades that will please his army veteran father, when speaking English is still a struggle. And he can’t quite connect with his peers at high school -- Chinese immigrants like himself but who seem to have adjusted to North American life more easily.
Then comes the fateful day when his father accesses Ray’s internet account, and discovers Ray has been cruising gay websites. Before Ray knows what has hit him, his belongings have been thrown on the front lawn, and he has been kicked out.
Angry,defiant, Ray heads to downtown Toronto. In short order he is robbed, beaten up and seduced, and he learns the hard realities of life on the street. Could he really sell himself for sex? Lots of people use their bodies to make money -- athletes, actors, models, pop singers. If no one gets hurt, why should anyone care?
Reviews
“Money Boy is a poignant tale about immigrant life and life as a homosexual teen.” — Charla Hollingsworth, VOYA
“...Money Boy is nothing less than astonishing.” — Chris DeVito, Facepuller
“Yee’s latest offers insight into the city’s immigrant-Chinese and gay communities...sure to invite both thought and discussion.” — Michael Cart, Booklist