Many of these short stories are told in a faux-fairy tale format, where the protagonist is described not by name, but by a label, such as "The Boy Who Stopped" or "The Boy Who Sang When Wet." Fairy tales can be a slightly ironic format for stories about gay men, and their childhoods, but being defined by behavior is of course another way of illustrating themes of identity. Many people have said very kind things about this collection.

there were a few good stories in this book. but overall my general impression was that of boredom. at times it seemed that the author was trying to be too artsyfartsy. other times the author wrote in a more narrative style. a good read. but not entirely memorable.