The beloved author ofDont Cry for MeandPerfect Peacereturns with a poignant, emotionally exuberant novel about a young queer Black man finding his voice in 1980s Chicagoa novel of family, forgiveness and perseverance, for fans ofThe Great BelieversandOn Earth We're Briefly Gorgeous

Isaac is at a crossroads in his young life. Growing up in Missouri, the son of a caustic, hard-driving father, he was conditioned to suppress his artistic pursuits and physical desires, notions that didnt align with a traditional view of masculinity. But now, in late 80s Chicago, Isaac has finally carved out a life of his own. He is sensitive and tender-hearted and has built up the courage to seek out a community. Yet just as he begins to embrace who he istwo social catalyststhe AIDS crisis and Rodney Kings attackcollectively extinguish his hard-earned joy.

At a therapists encouragement, Isaac begins to write down his story. In the process, he taps into a creative energy that will send him on a journey back to his family, his ancestral home in Arkansas, and the inherited trauma of the nations dark past. But a surprise discovery will either unlock the truths hes seeking, or threaten to derail the life hes fought so hard to claim.

Poignant, sweeping and luminously told,Isaacs Songmarks a return to the beloved characters ofDont Cry for Me, and a highwater mark in the career of an award-winning author.