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The God Box

A humanitarian novel by Alex Sanchez

Apr 10, 2009 Daniel Hineline

At first glance, controversy may come to mind for a book about homosexuality versus religion, but there is much more to Alex Sanchez's novel about self-discovery.

Alex Sanchez’s The God Box is a story about a boy named Paul who isn’t like the other boys in his senior class. Once an openly gay student transfers to his school, he begins to question his own sexuality. He sees how happy Manuel is and wishes that he too could be that happy. The only problem is Paul has a girlfriend and he is a Christian. He has been taught that homosexuality is a sin and therefore must stay away from it.

The Controversy of The God Box

For the majority of the public these days, The God Box has “controversy” written all over it. Not only is does the book explore homosexuality, but it also tackles this issue religiously. The thing is, The God Box explains itself so well, it is able to hold its own against its critics. Paul really does analyze his situation from all directions. As a reader, regardless of your position on homosexuality – or religion for that matter – by the end of the book, you just want to tell Paul to stop hiding his true feelings and come out already.

The God Box and Religion

The novel is not overtly preachy. The main characters are in a bible club in their high school and quote scripture numerous times to prove their point for or against homosexuality. Many of the interpretations of the verses that are used are extremely interesting, including Sodom and Gomorrah, especially if you’re the kind of person who grew up learning bible stories.

The God Box and Sexuality

The God Box is also not overtly homosexual. As Paul attempts to sort through his sexual identity, he discovers feelings that any person can have, regardless of their sexual orientation. The feelings he has are normal and natural attraction, not vulgar or violent like some may assume. Paul is just a normal high school boy going through the motions of discovering himself, only this boy happens to like other boys.

Alex Sanchez has more to say

Another broader theme in The God Box is bullying. Manuel’s openly gay attitude in his high school sparks a relentless swarm of bullies. One of the most shocking things about this is the teachers don’t even step in to help. This point shows how far homophobia has gone. Even adults, whose job it is to protect their students, can’t even be accepting of human beings.

The God Box and Humanity

Alex Sanchez’s novel, in a broader scope, is not just about homosexuality versus religion, it is about humanity; upholding and respecting life, regardless of what others may think. Manuel isn’t trying to turn Paul gay because he likes him, he’s trying to help Paul find happiness and love himself for who he is.

The copyright of the article The God Box in Teen Fiction is owned by Daniel Hineline. Permission to republish The God Box in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.