My Name Isn’t Rufus: A Boy’s Struggle for A Father’s Love

Sixteen-year-old Michael’s world has always revolved around his father-his hero, his compass, and the only one who calls him ＂Rufus.＂ But when his father moves in with another woman and her children, leaving Michael behind, that connection shatters.
Desperate for his father’s attention and approval, Michael makes reckless choices that only push him further away from the man he idolizes. Adrift and vulnerable, Michael gravitates toward older boys who seem to hold all the answers. But their influence raises difficult questions about his identity and sexuality-questions that leave him more conflicted than ever. Told with raw honesty and profound empathy, this compelling crossover novel bridges the gap between young adult and adult readers.
Michael’s journey illuminates the unspoken struggles of growing up, the yearning for belonging, and the delicate balance of understanding between generations.

Background Highlights: Shirl Solomon won the 1990 FL Screenwriter’s Award for ＂J’adoube＂, a screenplay based on a true story of a happy family whose son, on the day of his high school graduation, commits suicide. The screenplay version of ＂Small Deception＂ was agented by the William Morris Agency and optioned by screen director, Charles Matthau, son of Walter Matthau. Her network TV and radio appearances include America Alive, A.M. America, What’s My Line, Panorama with Maury Povich, Sonya Freeman, Dick Clooney, Joe Franklin, Long John Nebel and Dave Letterman. Included in her performed stage plays are: J’adoube, Oy, Vey, Cantor! (Musical Comedy), The Money Masters, All for You, Harold, and most recently -The Strudel Lady (a Musical Comedy last performed in Providence, R.I. in 2014)