Rosemary and Juliet Author:Judy Maclean Can two teenage girls find happiness in each other's armswhen it seems the whole world is against them? In prose that is tender and compelling, Judy MacLean brings her contemporary take on Shakespeare's classic play to vivid life. Rosemary and Juliet is a fast-paced novel that finds two girls on the edge of womanhoodand on the brin... more »k of disaster. But more than that, Rosemary and Juliet is about the turbulent intensity of first love and the conflict between the expectations of parents and the undeniable sexual realities lived by their children. A love that threatens to tear their familiesindeed, their whole community-apart . . . Rosemary "Romey" Arden is the only "out" lesbian at Divido High School. Her pro-choice, ex-hippie mom, Janis, runs A Woman's Decision, a clinic in nearby Santa Rosa, California. Targeted by local fundamentalists as a baby-killer whose "abortion mill" is the pinnacle of evil, Janis keeps herself sane by immersing herself in the women's movement and participating in peaceful protests against intolerance. But tall, athletic Romey only wants to live the normal life of a teenager, with one differenceto find love in the arms of a girl, not a boy. Julie Wright's dad, a dedicated fundamentalist minister, heads the Divido Bible Church. Beautiful, dark-haired Julie's gifther exquisite, soaring voicetakes the church choir to musical heights previously only dreamed of. Julie has always been a good girl, obedient, with a strong love in her heart for Jesus. But lately, a new feeling has come over hera feeling so strong it can't be deniedand why should it? She calls this new sensation Yearning, and understands that it is precious and important. But . . . what is she Yearning for? And . . . how can she choose between her budding sexuality and the church community she loves? Judy MacLean's insight into the reality of being a lesbian teenager makes this at once a cautionary tale for parents of gay teens, a story of courage for young adults, and a treat for those who have lived through being young and gay. Rosemary and Juliet will captivate anyone who remembers first loveand the fast-moving plot will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very last page!« less