The Elephant of Surprise (The Russel Middlebrook Series) - Softcover

Brent Hartinger is an author, playwright, and screenwriter. Geography Club, the first book in his Lambda Award-winning Russel Middlebrook Series, is now a feature film co-starring Scott Bakula and Nikki Blonsky.

In 1990, Brent helped found one of the world's first gay teen support groups, in his hometown of Tacoma, Washington. In 2005, he co-founded the entertainment website AfterElton.com, which was sold to MTV/Viacom in 2006. Read more by and about Brent, or contact him at www.brenthartinger.com.

"Along with the edifying main plotline, which will appeal to readersof any age, the well-conceived subplots won't disappoint young readerslooking for the juicy gossip that runs through the series. With Russel,there's always drama--real and perceived--but definitely no lack of love.Fans of the series will revel in this smart, quirky YA novel that's ripe with substance beyond the surface." -Kirkus Reviews

"This is an unusual storyline, but, like Russel, readers may findthemselves intrigued by Wade's [freegan anti-consumerist] lifestyle andbeliefs. Secondary plot lines support the core drama, andteens will continue to enjoy Russel's ever-humorous narration. Aftereating barbecued raccoon with Wade, Russel says, "If it doesn't soundromantic, you'll just have to take my word for it, because it totally,TOTALLY was." -- Publishers Weekly

"Russel is a narrator it's a pleasure tospend time with. He's honest -- often touchingly self-deprecating andalways hilariously self-conscious. ... This is the kind of teen book Iabsolutely adore. Funny, thought-provoking and entertaining. Read it!" -- Chicklish

"Like a warm chocolate cookie right out of the oven!" - Buried in Books

"A simple, wonderful story ... as accessible and reader-friendly aspossible. ... [a] wonderful senseof youthful humor." -- SABR

"Alive and uplifting. ... I also continue toadmire and celebrate the series for its matter-of-fact approach todiversity. It's the first time I can recall ever having read the candidthoughts of a gay white male regarding his attraction to a black malethat wasn't loaded down with stereotyping and racial junk. ... Quietly,but thrillingly revolutionary." -- TheBacklot.com