Anything Could Happen

Tretch Farm’s best friend Matt may have two dads—far from common in small-town Warmouth—but Tretch has a secret: he’s gay and in love with Matt. Debut author Walton offers a mostly upbeat alternative to accounts of tormented teens in the closet: 15-year-old Tretch is teased a bit at school (largely due to his close friendship with Matt), but he never doubts his family’s love. In fact, his biggest worry about coming out to them is that they’ll be so supportive that they’ll become socially isolated themselves. The Farm family’s warmth feels genuine, and when Tretch debuts his long-practiced routines at a school dance, his classmates are impressed, not to mention grateful that he’s gotten everyone dancing. The book may be optimistic, but it’s not unrealistic; Tretch’s life isn’t perfect, but it doesn’t have to be. As he says, he’s not toughing things out hoping they “get better”—they’re already pretty good right now. It’s a fine message even if Walton undermines it slightly by tying up a loose end or two a bit neatly. Ages 12–up. Agent: Peter Knapp, Park Literary Group. (May)