Short Stories by

Naptown Tales

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Play a part in writing a key portion of Naptown Tales History, but hurry - the contest ends on May 15!

Introduction

Although fictional modern day “Naptown” is very different from Indianapolis in 1972, it's still very much in the Bible Belt and gay teens face significant challenges there, even today. Let me tell you a bit about what I faced back in 1972 that forced me so deeply into the closet.

Broad Ripple Blues

A torridly hot day, an ice cream cone, a freak thunderstorm, a power outage and a couple of friends about to enter high school mix to create a little magic, a little romance and a little love.

Back to School Jitters

David and Jeremy are back in a light-hearted adventure as they do a little back-to-school shoping. Faced with a homophobia, not only do they end up coming out, but they make new friends and find acceptance in the process.

A Dance to Remember

David and Jeremy aren't about to let tradition keep them for dancing together at Homecoming. Trouble is, it's never been done. GSA president Paul has a plan, but it seems to run into a snag at first.

Educating My Parents

Trevor slipped up and is now out at school, but how will he tell his Evangelical Christian parents? He has a plan, but will it work?

Halloween Hero

When Barry finds his older brother in bed with a member of the football team, he has to make a potentially deadly choice - his brother, or his parents.

My First Thanksgiving

Fleeing persecution back home, young Altef and his ami immigrate to America, only to find difficulties adapting to an entirely new culture. Befriended by a Jewish boy, will there be fireworks at the Thanksgiving dinner table?

The Un-Christmas

Two boys, a Jew and a Muslim, face tragedy together and learn to find faith in their own religions as the world around them celebrates Christmas.

A New Year Resolution

When the pastor at Trevor's church tries to make an example of him by getting the GSA disbanded, help comes from a most unlikely source.

All My Heart

Carry is head over heels for Barry, but things aren't as they seem. When Barry discovers the truth, rather than get angry, he helps Carry without giving away her secret. (Coming in March)

Class Election

Is the next year's incoming sophomore class ready to elect a gay class presedent? Is David up to the challenge? Will Jeremy join him on the student council next year? (Coming in April)

Other Short Stories

The New Job

This fictional story is a semi-autobiographic account of the author's decision to come out to his wife.

The Parallax Effect

What if you could make a choice between the life you lived, or an alternative life you could have lived instead? Could you make that choice, even knowing that someone you loved would have to die, either way? If you could flip a coin to choose one reality or the other, would you?