in Music from the University of Dayton and an M.A. While it could be seen as a boring lifestyle to some, he kept himself entertained by playing the piano and writing stories that stretched his imagination. Phil Stamper grew up in a rural village near Dayton, Ohio. And as Jake and his friends try to find a way to bring Pride to Barton Springs, it seems suspicious that the mayor's son, Brett, suddenly wants to spend time with Jake.īut someone that cute couldn't possibly be in league with his mayoral mother, could he? Why can't they hold a pride festival in Barton Springs? The problem is, Jake knows he'll have to get approval from the town council, and the mayor won't be on his side. A few people are even concerned the flag will lead to something truly outlandish: a pride parade.Įxcept Jake doesn't think that's a ridiculous idea. When Jake's dad hangs a comically large pride flag in their front yard in an overblown show of love, the mayor begins to receive complaints. While his family and friends are accepting and supportive, the same can't be said about everyone in their small town of Barton Springs, Ohio.

Jake is just starting to enjoy life as his school's first openly gay kid. Perfect for fans of Rick by Alex Gino and The Best at It by Maulik Pancholy. And as Jake and his friends try to find a way to bring Pride to Barton Springs, it seems suspicious that the mayor's son, Brett, suddenly wants to spend time with Jake.From acclaimed author Phil Stamper ( The Gravity of Us and As Far as You'll Take Me) comes a poignant coming-of-age, contemporary middle grade debut novel about finding your place, using your voice, and the true meaning of pride.

From acclaimed author Phil Stamper (The Gravity of Us and As Far as You'll Take Me) comes a poignant coming-of-age, contemporary middle grade debut novel about finding your place, using your voice, and the true meaning of pride. Perfect for fans of Rick by Alex Gino and The Best at It by Maulik Pancholy.

Small town pride by phil stamper