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Review

Out of the Gilded Cage is the fourth book in 104570's series. It follows David and Shane, the former President and 1st Gentleman respectively, in their post-presidency retirement in Cape May, NJ. The two endeavor to use their status to help the less fortunate gay youth of America, especially one very special youth named Jack. At the same time, David's influential status in the world of politics necessitates him to continue to lend his expertise to the office of the presidency.

This book is interesting in that it attempts to paint the picture of a United States that is more accepting of homosexuals than where we are today. It is done in a mature way that does not rely on sex or sexual tension to drive the plot. The author is applauded in his endeavor to paint the most influential of political figure heads as a real person with the same everyday struggles as the average reader. He delicately weaves political commentary throughout the storyline to inform the impact this has on everyone.

However, without the benefit of reading the three preceding volumes to this series, the reader is thrown into the heart of already developed characters. The former president comes across as spoiled, impulsive and arrogant. At times, his behaviors and actions are far from presidential, creating a character that is inconsistent and disappointing.

One of the central themes of the book is how David and Shane foster-to-adopt a gay teenage boy who had been abandoned. This storyline develops much too quickly, with the boy and his new "Daddy" and "Dad" falling hopelessly in love with each other in one turn of the page. The story relies too heavily on the verbal exchange between characters, which is often weak and extraneous. It does not allow room for either exposition or a deeper understanding of each characters' personality.

Thompson demonstrates a clear understanding of the behind scenes look at politics, which is consistent with his background prior to becoming an author. With this, the reader is treated with an invitation to peak behind political closed doors. Thompson delivers clarity in this regard, yet is less successful when attempting to develop the parallel story line of family and interpersonal relationships. Overall, the book is filled with contradictions, creating a reading experience that is less than satisfying for what has the potential to otherwise be a unique story.

 -- Tom Jr.