Two Boys Kissing (2015) Parents Guide: Is the book OK for kids?

The book focuses on romantic attraction and identity; while the central kiss between Craig and Harry is a public feat of endurance rather than a sexual act, there are discussions of first-time sexual experiences, 'hooking up' via the internet, and varying degrees of physical intimacy. Characters like Cooper use digital platforms to seek connection, leading to frank discussions about the risks of meeting strangers for sex. Avery and Ryan navigate the complexities of physical touch while discussing gender identity…

Violence is infrequent but impactful, including a scene where a character is physically assaulted (punched and kicked) because of his sexuality. There is also a heavy focus on the internal 'violence' of self-harm ideation and the historical trauma of the AIDS crisis, which is described with somber, clinical detail. Cooper’s internal struggle is particularly intense, involving thoughts of ending his life while he is isolated in his car. In Chapter 34, a physical confrontation results in actual injury, serving as a…

Moderate use of profanity including 'shit,' 'hell,' 'damn,' and 'ass' occurs throughout the dialogue. Derogatory slurs, such as 'faggot,' are used by antagonistic characters to illustrate the harsh reality of homophobia and bullying in high school environments. The 'shadow' narrators use sophisticated, poetic language, but the teenage characters use contemporary slang and informal grammar. Some coarse language is used during moments of high emotional stress, particularly when Cooper is spiraling or when Harry and…

Substance use is not a primary focus, though there are mentions of characters being in environments where drinking occurs or passing mentions of typical teenage social life. Some secondary characters are noted to have used alcohol to cope with the stresses of their environment, but the main protagonists do not engage in heavy drug or alcohol use during the primary timeline. The narrative focuses more on the physical 'high' and subsequent crash of the marathon kiss, comparing it to a physical addiction or trial…

Major themes include the history of LGBTQ+ struggle, the contrast between modern acceptance and past tragedy, the difficulty of coming out to unsupportive parents, and the mental health toll of isolation. The story is uniquely narrated by a chorus of men who died during the AIDS epidemic, providing a haunting perspective on the progress made by the younger generation. Cooper’s storyline explores the dark depths of clinical depression and suicidal ideation after he is outed to his parents. Other threads explore the…