In anticipation of the movie from which it is based, I recently re-read Armistead Maupin's 2000 novel, "The Night Listener." It is a complex story filled with twists, turns, and surprises & you will find yourself unable to put the book down.The novel begins with the main character (Gabriel), author of a radio serial called Noone at Night, facing two disruptions in his life: his longtime partner, Jess, has moved out and Gabe has developed writer's block. While trying to deal with those two things, Gabe's editor asks him to read a manuscript written by an HIV-positive 13-year-old named Pete Lomax that details his escape from years of sexual and physical abuse. Gabe is so moved by Pete's story, he calls the boy and a friendship develops. His relationship with Pete (and Pete's adoptive mother, Donna) helps Gabe put his other troubled relationships into perspective, while at the same time opening up new questions concerning trust, truth and friendship, as the relationship with Pete and Donna takes a Hitchcockian turn. From that point on you won't be able to put the book down.
Maupin presents his tale elegantly. Like his "Tales of the City" series, this novel is a true gem and a joy to read.
Side note: As with the character of Ned in "Maybe the Moon," Armistead Maupin inserts a character from "Tales of the City" into this story. Anna, Gabriel's personal assistant, is none other than little Anna - daughter of Dee Dee and D'orthea from the "Tales" serial.
