1959

Jerry Killian is a mixed-up, seventeen-year-old prep student who believes he killed his senile grandmother. His low self-esteem produces many comical moments as he struggles with his fervent desire to experience sex...with another human being. His Prom night seduction episode ends in a fiasco. He questions the mores of his strict Irish Catholic upbringing and what part fate plays in his existence. When Cathy, his first love, breaks up with him he suffers a complete breakdown. With the help of his nerdy friends, he becomes emotionally strong enough to challenge his sadistic basketball coach and ends up as the school hero. Then, just as it appears his life is in order, he learns the tragic truth about Cathy. His new friend, Carrie, tries to help, but only the extended hand of Bob, his mentor and therapist, can save him. Will Jerry take it? In The Hero of Barryton, Jerry's grandfather, Patrick O'Connor, had to face many obstacles. In this follow-up novel, O'Connor's grandson has his own demons to conquer. Unfortunately, young Jerry doesn't possess his grandfather's strength. He must rely on his family, friends, and his own sense of humor to win the final battle toward maturity.