Review: Coming of Age and Standing Proud when it isn't easy
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 06 6, 2013
A 5-star rating is well deserved as this coming of age story deals with more than coming out.  It is about growing up, making the best out of a bad situation, taking a risk to talk to talk to individuals shunned by others, taking responsibility for one's self, daring to be different, making your difference an asset not a liability, standing up to bullies, making a difference, being a friend and the importance of honesty.There is a lot to like here and earlier reviews capture the highlights well and I don't need to repeat them.  Suffice it to say, I truly enjoyed this story even though I am not the target audience for this story. This would be a great story to have as required reading for high school freshman.I recommend Exiled to Iowa... for those readers that enjoy romance and personal development rather than than erotica.  There is affection and kissing, while sexual intimacy is left to the imagination.  This is a feel good story that celebrates courage, human dignity, honesty and compassion.  It could be said that this book, if it were a movie, would be rated G for general audiences. After reading this book, I too fell motivated to be more compassionate to others that are different than myself and those shunned by others.