43 pages • 1 hour read
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480
Novel • Fiction
Montana • 1990s
2012
Balzer + Bray
YA
14-18 years
1120L
The Miseducation of Cameron Post follows lesbian teen Cameron Post's journey of self-acceptance and identity formation in Miles City, Montana. After her parents' tragic death, Cameron's religious aunt sends her to God's Promise, a conversion therapy camp. There, Cameron befriends fellow skeptics Jane and Adam, with whom she eventually plans an escape. Themes include homosexuality, grief, and religion. The book addresses themes of conversion therapy and self-harm.
Melancholic
Contemplative
Bittersweet
Emotional
Challenging
59,846 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Emily M. Danforth's The Miseducation of Cameron Post is praised for its authentic portrayal of a teenager grappling with her identity in 1990s America. Reviewers commend its heartfelt narrative and complex characters, though some feel the pacing is slow. Overall, it effectively captures the struggles and resilience of LGBTQ+ youth.
Readers who enjoy coming-of-age stories with strong LGBTQ+ themes and complex characters will appreciate The Miseducation of Cameron Post by Emily M. Danforth. Fans of Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Sáenz or Fun Home by Alison Bechdel will find its emotional depth and exploration of identity compelling.
59,846 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Aunt Ruth
Cameron’s well-meaning but overzealous aunt who becomes her guardian after her parents' death and believes that strict religious views are the remedy for Cameron's lifestyle.
Irene Klauson
Cameron's childhood best friend and first kiss, with whom she shares a competitive yet deeply affectionate relationship that changes when their lives diverge dramatically.
Lindsey Lloyd
A friend Cameron meets during a swim meet who lives in Seattle, but spends summers in Montana and provides Cameron cultural and emotional insight into same-sex attraction.
Coley Taylor
A seemingly All-American girl from a respected family who shares a secret romance with Cameron but subsequently feels conflicted over their relationship.
Rick Roneous
A charismatic reverend who helps run God’s Promise and is open about his previous same-sex tendencies, portraying a more lenient approach compared to his co-director.
Lydia March
Rick’s strict aunt and the assistant director of God’s Promise who is feared by students for her firm belief in her mission to address the origins of homosexual desires.
Jane Fonda
A resident at God’s Promise who quickly befriends Cameron, offers support, and has an independent and rebellious spirit that helps Cameron on her journey.
Adam Red Eagle
Cameron's trail running partner and close friend whose mother sees his fluid sexuality as spiritual, yet he is sent to God’s Promise by his father for reformation.
Mark Turner
The dedicated son of a famed minister whose commitment to the teachings at God’s Promise leads to tragic personal upheaval.
480
Novel • Fiction
Montana • 1990s
2012
Balzer + Bray
YA
14-18 years
1120L
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