Gemini Bites

by Patrick Ryan, 229 pages

Kyle's life already resembles a primetime sitcom. With six siblings, one of whom apparently hates him, and a pair of loving but quirky parents, the last thing the semi-outed sixteen-year-old needs is a tenth body thrown into the mess. But that's just what he gets when his dad announces that Kyle's classmate Garret will be moving into their newly remodeled game room for a few weeks. Garret obviously has some issues of his own, but Kyle finds himself drawn to the strange, artistic boy despite the latter's insistence that his night-timey goth look is more than just skin deep. Unfortunately, Kyle's über-competitive twin sister Judy (a.k.a. Monster) can't stand to see Kyle win at anything. Not even vampire love.

Gemini Bites is a well-written, quickly-paced teen novel that broaches some sensitive topics with frankness and gentle humor. Kyle's and Judy's voices are distinct (his more self-effacing, hers more assertive) yet clearly related as they each deal with insecurity and identity issues in their own way. If the parents come off as perhaps a little too laid back and indulgent, their supportive, positive relationships with their children and with one another (rare finds in contemporary teen lit) put the reader in a forgiving mood. Sometimes, it's nice to be reminded that not all families are hopelessly dysfunctional.

An involving, sweet, funny read about shared bonds and the importance of being oneself.