Books
Across The Bridge
A Queer, Anti-Suicide/Pro-Living Coming-Of-Age Story
As a queer teen in a small American town in the 1980s, Ryder purposely stays in the shadows. At high school he meets friends, including his first crush, Nate, who unconsciously showed him a road to being proud of who he is. A pride that stays with him for life.
But growing up in this small, queer-phobic town wasn’t easy, and along the way Ryder will battle to overcome thoughts of suicide.
Queer youth (no matter what the decade) have to deal with high school heteronormative expectations that do not match who they are. How did Ryder, Nate and friends break this barrier?
In Across the Bridge, Ryder graphically and directly shares his queer coming-of-age story in the hope that it will inspire new generations of queer youth and young adults to thrive and not give into queer oppression.
This book is meant to be a quick read for all, but especially for queer youth contemplating suicide.
Reviews
Ryder (Author): Sharing my story to help save LGBTQIA+ lives.
Nate: Ryder’s first crush, the comedian and the party planner.
Kenji: Most admired & kind-hearted.
Maya: A quiet yet wild party friend & attentive listener.
Christian: A low-key flirt.
Luke: A high-strung flirt.
Aiden: Teen hunk of the subgroup.
Awarded for LGBTQ Nonfiction Distinguished Favorite
In 2021, I retired from federal service and chose to pursue a second career in writing. At the same time, I noticed in the media the alarmingly high number of LGBTQIA+ suicides, especially among transgender individuals. Having attempted suicide in my youth, I understand the mindset that leads to that decision. I also know that it is possible to overcome these feelings and begin to live a positive and successful life as a queer person. Drawing from my own experience, I decided to share my story and what worked for me in the hope of encouraging any queer reader from taking their own life. That is how “Across the Bridge-A queer anti-suicide/pro-living coming-of-age story” came into being.
If I can save a LGBTQIA+ life or any life, straight or queer, the journey to creating Across the Bridge was worth it.
Awarded for the category of LGBTQ Non-Fiction
https://honorees.bookexcellenceawards.com/#!/2025-Winners/c/198855763/offset=60
Awarded for the category of LGBTQIA for Children, Teens & Young Adults
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