Thunder and Lightning is the fourth in the five book Scrapbook series. It explores the world from the eyes of a young gay boy. His needs and desires are looked at honestly, with a sense of humor and without the baggage of present day prejudice.
Julian has established himself as a leader and is gaining the respect that he has sought for so long. His goal to gain the scoutmaster’s heart has yet to be reached, but he is encouraged. He does not suspect that he has competition from an experienced outsider.
The second week at the scout camp has begun; everyone will be back on task working on merit badges and advancing to the next rank. The mid morning activity break includes intramural water polo, where Mark Schaeffer is one of the coaches. Mark is scoutmaster of Troop Nine.
Surrounded by hundreds of scouts, all working to get ahead, Julian finds a way to shine. His artistic ability grows by leaps, drawing the attention of the camp director. His insight into human nature makes his friendship valuable and helpful to others.
We get a glimpse of the Camp staff and their efficiency and competence. Introducing Harold, the First Aid medic, and Sarge Oliver, the camp Ranger and Quartermaster.
Mother Nature takes center stage, creating problems and opportunities. Story lines begun earlier are followed closely, and a few new faces appear, making these three days at camp more fun than ever.
Only three more days remain–there is a lot left to do. That’s what the dreams and the worries are about after bedtime on Wednesday–how everything turns out will be revealed in Book 5.
What makes Thunder and Lightning such a pleasure is Eldot’s sublime celebration of young adult maleness. It has all the insanity, all the hilarity, all the panic and sybaritism and casual combustion, depicted with a true affection for its cast of young men. - QRS Reviews
