Two young men, David and Theo, meet in a small town and find themselves unexpectedly attracted to each other. Their feelings complicate and even spur several changes occuring in the way they view and treat the world. David has to deal with the hopes that have been placed on him by so many, and begins to define himself outside of their vision of him. Theo on the other hand focuses on their relationship and the impact it will have on their future. These issues are explored in a way that brings out the boys' great understanding, sensitivity and humour despite their being at an age when the hormones of adolescent frustrations zing through their system with almost too much urgency for forethought. ( )

Before I explain what I liked about this book, let me get what I didn't like (well, more like that I had to overcome) first. The writing style. The book starts out in very vague tones and you don't really know whose point of view or ... much of anything. Eventually this resolves itself into the story, but it's kind of hard going at first. The reason is because this is a book written in and about New Zealand, so it uses slang that I'm not used to, but it works. In fact, it works extremely well. It's the story of David Mason and Theo Meyer, two teenagers trying to sort out their lives. David is a star rugby player, but it's sure that's what he wants to do with his life. Theo's a newcomer to the city and lives with his grandmother. It's a story about love and sex and growing up -- and then so much more. Taylor doesn't so much delve into the sex part of things, but there are a couple of extremely well written and intimate scenes between David and Theo. The story is both sweet and heartbreaking -- as well as moving. There are a couple of scenes that are extremely breathtaking. And, once you finish, you're left with a bittersweet taste, but at the same time, there's this hope that people will be able to love. ( )

Citation: Taylor, W. The Blue Lawn (1994). Harper Collins: New Zealand.
Grade Level: 10th-12th
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Read Alouds:
Pages 1-8: Introduction to David & Theo.
Pages 16-18: David’s visit with Theo
Pages 48-50: Theo’s confession.
Pages 70-80: Gretel’s garden.
Pages 118-122: The Blue Lawn.
Summary:
David and Theo get into a fight in the school locker room over something Theo says. David really hurt Theo, but Theo calls David at home to apologize. Theo and David slowly become friends and eventually realize that they have more than friendship feelings for each other. David and Theo fall in love.
Themes:
Love overcomes all obstacles whether it be football practice or angry parents. Friendship is an honor to have and an honor to keep.
Discussion Questions:
1. What was the significance of the garden?
Reader Response:
This book was too direct in its presentation of young homosexuality. The story was slow-developing, but then I think it went too fast. The boys were almost too cliché. ( )