Alan Cole is Not a Coward

Alan Cole’s family is unsupportive and intolerant, and his father and brother are quick to use violence to solve issues. Alan is gay but has not come out and when his brother learns that Alan has a crush on a boy, he challenges him to a game of Cole vs. Cole, that involves seven exacting challenges, and if Alan loses, his secret will be public. As Alan undertakes the challenges he learns he can stand up to his brother and father and, most importantly, stand up for himself. This coming-of-age story can be used as a class, literature circle, read-aloud, or independent novel, and encourage discussion and critical thinking around issues of diversity, identity, tolerance, and family dynamics.