Woodson presents an excellent view of a family struggling for identity and individualism. This short dramatic fiction explores homosexuality as well as heterosexuality. Melanin Sun and his mother have always been alone until suddenly she brings home a new friend...a girl friend. The work explores Melanin's reactions and acceptance as well as the dynamics of their new little family. Though well written I could not get past the plot itself. Melanin does not understand or even realize what is happening until his mother drops it onto him to deal with. Also, no resolution is really decided between Melanin and his mom or between Melanin and himself. It was difficult to read and see the affects the mother's new decision had on her 13 year old son. Though it discusses important and needed issues, Woodson's novel might delve into too deep for some readers. Excellent writing by Woodson.