Whompyjawed: 1.Askew, out of place 2.Off-center or crooked 3. (informal) a person of eccentric or questionable character; odd.................... Football is Willy Keeler's ticket out of West Texas, but only if he can keep the explosive combination of his intellect and hormones from destroying his high-school career. Not an easy task as he also contends with the endless demands of his girlfriend, mother, coach, and college recruiters. When a startling sexual encounter with a classmate and a consuming infatuation with one of his mother's friends threaten to shatter his fragile balance, Willy discovers that simply figuring out who he is may be the greatest challenge of all.
Reminiscent of
The Catcher in the Rye and
The Last Picture Show, Mitch Cullin's
Whompyjawed is an unforgettable coming-of-age story, told with unparalleled humor and compassion.
Football is Willy Keeler's ticket out of West Texas, but only if he can keep his intellect, hormones, and adolescent rage from destroying his high school career. Reminiscent of such classic works as "The Last Picture Show" and "Catcher in the Rye, Whompyjawed" introduces a writer whose distinctive voice, knowing perspective, and off-beat sense of humor capture a time and place with striking originality.
Mary Gaitskill author of
Bad Behavior Funny, subtle, and true. A wonderful first novel.
