The Vast Fields of Ordinary is Nick Burd's debut LGBTQ young adult novel, centered around Dade Hamilton, an 18-year-old gay teenager navigating a difficult summer. Dade is torn between two romantic interests: Pablo, a closeted football player, and Alex, an openly gay drug dealer. Set in Cedarville, Iowa, the novel explores Dade’s struggle with identity, love, and acceptance, as he also faces his parents’ crumbling marriage. His mother battles severe depression, while his father admits to an affair. Dade’s friendship with Lucy, an outspoken lesbian, helps him confront his feelings and come out to his parents. The novel culminates with a tragic car accident and the discovery of a missing local girl, leading Dade to find peace with himself. Burd’s novel received several accolades, including the Stonewall Book Award and recognition on the New York Times Notable Books list.
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