The God Box

I can't say enough about this book that other reviewers haven't already said. But I felt the need to add one more glowing review to a book that enlightens and delights, without delving into the steamier sexual antics that are so often central in tales of coming into one's gay sexuality. In a world where the Christian 'Right' attempts to demonize gayness -- which in turn incites all manner of ill-will and even violence of against gay youth -- The God Box is a warm, fuzzy and delightful read for every Christian teen, gay and straight. Especially straight, because they need to know that some of their Christian peers are in fact gay. And guess what, it's okay. Thanx Mr. Sanchez!! ~~ Taylor Siluwé, author of Dancing With The Devil

This is the ideal book for any teenager, young adult, or parent of a young person struggling with their sexuality and their faith. It explores the terrain of teenage sexuality in such a way that is honest, convincing and deeply respectful of religious beliefs. In the end, it leaves the reader feeling that Christianity can be a source of liberation for all of us rather than an oppressive force. Refreshingly, the book is also a real page turner. You end up learning quite a bit about the Bible without knowing it! The God Box is the kind of novel you'll devour in one setting yet it's message about faith will stay with you for a long time to come.

Alex Sanchez has done it again!!! Another masterpiece. You'll be hooked from the first few words all the way through to the last one. While it deals with spiritual issues and may get a little preachy at times, please treasure this book for what it is- a captivating journey of self-discovery. It should become a must read for all teenagers, let alone for those of us who are not teenagers.

Paul is a boy who is highly religious, goes to a Christian school, lives in a very small town, and loves God and his girlfriend of several years. Living in such a small town and going to a small school, everyone knows the new kids. The knew person, Manuel, is weird. Everyone talks about him, especially when he joins Paul and his friends at their lunch table. Manuel proceeds to tell them that he is both gay and Christian, two things that don't mix well. The girls love Manuel, but the boys want to stay far away from him -- except for Paul. Manuel is trying to be Pauls friend and all the guys start talking about the both of them. As Paul and Manuel hang out, a friendship is formed and Paul challenges Manuel about God, the Bible, and being gay. Every answer Manuel gives makes Paul think differently about his religion and what it says. Is being gay okay, and can you still go to Heaven? While examining his feelings, Paul wonders about his own sexuality and if his friendship for Manuel is just that -- a friendship. When a series of events happens, Paul finds his true feelings, his true identity, and, most importantly, love. Alex Sanchez's latest novel is amazing. It gives a new interpretation of "the Bible says that being gay is a sin," an excuse that many use. Very thought-provoking, this book will keep a smile on your face until the end. Reviewed by: Jeremey

Sanchez, Alex. "The God Box", Simon and Shuster, 2007. Sexual and Religious Identity Amos Lassen Alex Sanchez has done so much good for our community. His books, the popular Rainbow series ("Rainbow Boys", "Rainbow High" and "Rainbow Road") are now considered classics for young gays. He also tours the country talking with our youth as well as librarians and educators about the importance of acceptance and teaching tolerance. Sanchez's new novel "The God Box' deals with the issue of spirituality and homosexuality as he looks at the problems that young people have when they realize that their sexual ideas are not in sync with what their religion tells them. The blurb on the inside front cover deals with the theme of the book, "how could I choose between my sexuality and my sexuality, two of the most important points that make me whole". Sanchez opens the Bible and those sections that have been long abused and used to denigrate the homosexual way of life and shows how wrong interpretations have been. Peter is a high school senior and has had the same girlfriend, Angie, since he was in middle school. They share interests and compliment each other. When Manuel, a new student, transfers to the school, Paul realizes that he must rethink his life. Manuel is unique in the small town where they live--he is both openly gay and an observant Christian. When Paul and Manuel talk, Paul sees that he has been hiding thoughts from himself and e has been hiding them. Manuel has the knack for interpreting Biblical passages on homosexuality and as Paul listens to him doing so, he finds himself reevaluating everything he has ever believed. Because Manuel is so open with and about himself, dramatic consequences ensue which eventually brings bout a situation that causes Paul to take a stand. We have been hearing a great deal of late about how sexuality and religion are divided and Sanchez takes this theme and breathes sense into it. He does so candidly and with very strong conviction and by doing so he gives us a look at the struggle so many have when they try to find a balance between their sexuality and religious beliefs. Here is a story that youth will be able to read and understand with no problems but it is not just for kids; it has something to say to all of us. Dealing with G-d's love and self acceptance, this is a very important book. Sanchez looks at the interpretations of theology and then tackles them head on. He does so through dialog and the thoughts of youngsters as they question their sexual, ethnic and religious identities. Sanchez's greatest gift is the use of honesty and with this new book, we now have Alex Sanchez back with us. The book is remarkable and Sanchez beautifully captures the problems of youth. We get entertainment together with a strong story which will help anyone having trouble with the issues of religious/homosexual reconciliation.