BestBoy's Salute to Patricia Nell Warren

BestBoy's Salute to

I was just coming out in 1975 when the original Bantam paperback edition of The Front Runner was published. Impressed by a magazine review of the book, which also told of Paul Newman's option on the film rights, I rushed right out to Glad Day Books in Toronto to buy myself a copy. As I soaked up every page, every word, like a text sponge or something, I was enthralled with the story. I couldn't put it down until the 5-thousand metre race in Montreal and tragedy struck. I was so emotionally involved with the characters, I had to put the book down for two days before I could read to the conclusion. I was also taken with Patricia Nell Warren's ability to place herself in the first person narrator...a man...and delve, so deeply, into the inner sanctums of a gay man's life; his feelings, trials and triumphs. When I found her home on the web, I wrote to her and she responded. I learned of her current activities with gay youth, her sequel to TFR, Harlan's Race and her plans for a third and final book in the series, Billy's Boy. Naturally, I got a copy of Harlan's Race and even treated myself to the 20th Anniversary Edition of The Front Runner.

I wanted to share my feelings about Patricia's work with everyone I come in contact with in the gay community since I feel she is an important part of our culture. Many young people have not read TFR and I know that it could be wonderfully encouraging to them, especially if they are just coming to terms with their sexuality, just as it was for me 22 years ago. So, on these pages, I salute a woman who has been an inspiring force in my life and will continue to inspire the gay community long into the next millenium with her courageous and daring works and deeds.

The latest work from Patricia Nell Warren
BILLY'S BOY
is now available!