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85A tracks a watershed day in the life of an adolescent antihero. Foulmouthed with a capital F-word, Seamus embodies Johnny Rotten as a way of fending off the bullies at home, at school and in his whites-only neighborhood. Luckily, his mixed-raced friend Tressa opens him up to experiences that turn his worldview on its head. Through it all, Seamus basks in BBC dramas, dreaming of what life would be if only he could stow away to London. By the time Seamus reaches his last L stop, he will come to see that his 85A ride that morning was just the kickoff to an intrepid urban odyssey.
jrlcnyc
Posted August 22, 2011
85A explores a day in the life of Seamus O'Grady, an adolescent struggling with life in late 80s Chicago - yet its tenor is surprisingly current. The story flows in a way that is at once aggressive and lyrical.
The city of Chicago, at the height of its segregation, features as almost a character in and of itself. This same spirit of segregation permeates every aspect of Seamus' home and neighborhood, where he reels as the resident misfit.
Seamus' parents refuse to nurture their son's artistic sensitivity, but Seamus is convinced that running away to London will set free all his latent talent. As he prepares for his eventual leavetaking, he meets a black woman who epitomizes the sophistication and redemption that Seamus hopes a career in the arts will provide.
While Seamus's quest may appear quixotic, at the end the author gives us a feeling that redemption is in the cards and this seemingly tough kid - who is gay in all but his own admission - will be able to get in touch with himself.
The book is shot through with profanity, consistent with adolescent bravado. The story flows very well and the characters are well depicted.
jrlcnyc
Posted June 11, 2010
85A explores a day in the life of Seamus O'Grady, an adolescent struggling with life in late 80s Chicago - yet its tenor is surprisingly current. The story flows in a way that is at once aggressive and lyrical.
The city of Chicago, at the height of its segregation, features as almost a character in and of itself. This same spirit of segregation permeates every aspect of Seamus' home and neighborhood, where he reels as the resident misfit.
Seamus' parents refuse to nurture their son's artistic sensitivity, but Seamus is convinced that running away to London will set free all his latent talent. As he prepares for his eventual leavetaking, he meets a black woman who epitomizes the sophistication and redemption that Seamus hopes a career in the arts will provide.
While Seamus's quest may appear quixotic, at the end the author gives us a feeling that redemption is in the cards and this seemingly tough kid - who is gay in all but his own admission - will be able to get in touch with himself.
The book is shot through with profanity, consistent with adolescent bravado. The story flows very well and the characters are well depicted.
Overview
85A tracks a watershed day in the life of an adolescent ...