"Slot Machine" by Chris Lynch is a young adult novel that follows the story of Bobby, a high school senior and star football player, as he navigates the challenges of his senior year and grapples with issues such as friendship, family, and self-identity.
Bobby has always been the golden boy of his small town, known for his athletic prowess and popularity. But as his senior year progresses, Bobby starts to question the expectations and pressures that come with his status. He begins to question his own desires and dreams, and struggles with the weight of his own reputation.
As Bobby deals with the complexities of senior year, he also faces challenges within his friendships and relationships. His best friend, Joanie, starts to drift away, and Bobby must confront the changes in their friendship. He also struggles to connect with his distant and emotionally unavailable father, who has his own set of expectations for Bobby.
Bobby's journey is further complicated by his growing attraction to his teammate, J.J., which challenges his understanding of his own sexuality and the expectations placed upon him by his community. Bobby must confront his own biases and confront the truth about his own desires, even if it means facing backlash from those around him.
"Slot Machine" is a thought-provoking and introspective novel that tackles themes of identity, friendship, family, and sexual orientation. It portrays the challenges and complexities of navigating senior year and coming to terms with one's own desires and expectations in a small town setting.
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