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Book Cover for: The Player, Paul Coccia

The Player

Paul Coccia

Set in the traditionally homophobic world of amateur hockey, this book follows gay goalie Cooper in his struggle with his feelings for a teammate and coming out to his team. Cooper has been hooking up with teammate Pesh in secret, and has to play along when Pesh dates a girl and even tolerate locker-room homophobic talk. When Pesh outs Cooper online, trying to better his own chances at playing pro, Cooper chooses self-esteem and honesty over sex. With a strong and relatable main character, this book is a realistic, positive look at teen relationships -- gay or straight.

Distributed in the U.S by Lerner Publishing Group

Book Details

  • Publisher: Lorimer Children & Teens
  • Publish Date: Aug 1st, 2021
  • Pages: 160
  • Language: English
  • Edition: undefined - undefined
  • Dimensions: 7.60in - 5.40in - 0.60in - 0.61lb
  • EAN: 9781459415782
  • Recommended age: 13-18
  • Categories: LGBTQ+ - GeneralSocial Themes - Dating & SexSports & Recreation - Hockey

About the Author

Coccia, Paul: - Paul Coccia has a specialist in English from the University of Toronto and a Masters in Creative Writing from the University of British Columbia. He wrote the YA novel Cub. Paul lives in Toronto.

Praise for this book

"Recommended for high school libraries."--School Library Journal

-- (8/1/2021 12:00:00 AM)

"Coccia scores with this gay athlete's journey . . . Sweet heat melts the ice, and relationship woes guide growth."--Kirkus Reviews

-- (5/27/2021 12:00:00 AM)