ONE MAN GUY

Narrator Michael Chernus perfectly portrays Alek's frustrated but submissive responses to his rigid, driving, overprotective Armenian parents, who insist he attend summer school after he falls off the honor track. That summer everything changes when Alek meets and falls in love with the cool skateboarding Ethan. Contrasting Alek's high-pressure existence with Ethan's casual nature, Chernus captures the challenging way Ethan encourages Alek to experience freedom. But as their relationship grows, Ethan reveals his own vulnerabilities. Using an Armenian accent, Chernus gives verisimilitude to Alek's Armenian household and the horrific history his ancestors faced. These details give the plot an unusual angle and add uniqueness to Alek's love story. S.W. [Published: DECEMBER 2014]