Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

"The Night Elvis Kissed James Dean"

Rate this book
It's the 1950s! Jason Blue and Billy Sanders meet in high school and fall in love. Jason looks like Elvis, while Billy resembles James Dean. As you can imagine, sparks fly! A light-hearted LGBT romance that fuses pop-music, hot rods, and fashion of the time as a landscape to tell this engaging love story. Perfect for LGBT youth! Audiobook brilliantly narrated by Faris Monshi. Lyrics of the song "Too Young," written by Sidney Lippman, given by kind permission to re-print to the author Waide Riddle. Published online at NoHo Arts District Valentine's Day issue, February 2021.

62 pages, Paperback

Published March 3, 2021

1 person want to read

About the author

Waide Riddle

59 books51 followers
Waide Riddle is an award-winning author, writer, poet & filmmaker.
His poems and stories are archived at UCLA Library of Special Collections, USC ONE Institute, Poets House/NYC, the Simon Weisenthal Center/The Museum of Tolerance & the Bodleian Library at Oxford University.
He was raised in Spring Branch/Houston.
He is a proud member of SAG/AFTRA.
Mr. Riddle currently resides in Los Angeles.

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
1 (20%)
4 stars
1 (20%)
3 stars
2 (40%)
2 stars
1 (20%)
1 star
0 (0%)
Displaying 1 of 1 review
121 reviews2 followers
February 12, 2025
As Billy Sanders navigates his 18th year, the world around him is a vibrant celebration of youthful exuberance, fast cars, and rock-n-roll. Set in the late 50s, this coming-of-age tale showcases the fantasies of a boy captivated by the era’s icons, most notably Elvis Presley and James Dean. Billy and his friend Jason Blue decide to channel these legendary figures, captivating their hearts with their charisma and charm.

In the summer of ’59, the streets come alive with the sounds of jukeboxes playing classic hits. Each note resonates with memories of countless evenings spent dancing with friends at local hangouts, including a lively gay club where music fills the air. The thrill of dancing to Elvis’s “Hound Dog” captures the era’s essence, inviting everyone to join in the celebration.

The charm of the 50s is further amplified by the budding romance between Billy and his crush, Jason Blue. Their youthful encounters are filled with laughter, flirtation, and innocent affections, highlighting the sweetness and simplicity of young love. As they navigate the challenges of adolescence, the vibrant culture of the 50s serves as the backdrop for their story, reflecting a time when dreams were ripe, and possibilities felt endless. With a happy ever after in sight, Billy’s summer of ’59 remains a nostalgic tribute to an unforgettable coming-of-age journey.
Displaying 1 of 1 review

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.