Reviews - John Welch - The One Who's Gonna See You Through

What my readers are saying…

A stirring reflection on Black LGBT life, The One Who’s Gonna See You Through by John Steven Welch is a tender and trope-defying portrait of resilience in an unconventional life. GJ’s coming-of-age story defies society’s unfair expectations, suffering through the inherent abuses of existence in the minority, by way of his upbringing, sexuality, and the color of his skin, but confronting and overcoming these obstacles. What carries readers through this emotional kaleidoscope is Welch’s consistent and compelling prose, which fearlessly illuminates the systemic prejudice GJ must overcome, but also proudly shines on GJ’s tangible and psychological victories. The character’s first-person perspective adds a visceral layer to his story, as well as rare transparency to the complex figure at the heart of this eye-opening novel.

A powerful work of autofiction told through the lens of a gay black man growing up in the United States, The One Who's Gonna See You Through by John Steven Welch turns stereotypes upside down and offers a fresh tale of life in America. GJ's father stands by him through thick and thin, while his mother is absent due to her drinking and lifestyle choices. As he grows up, GJ struggles with his sexuality and the chaotic world around him, only discovering later how strong of a support system his father was in his life. A story that is intensely personal while illuminating the struggles in larger communities, Welch's novel shines a light on facets of the American experience that are too often misrepresented or ignored.

A searing portrait of GJ, a young black man growing up in a non-conventional household, The One Who's Gonna See You Through by John Steven Welch is a unique sociological snapshot of the gay experience in America. GJ grows up in a strictly codified neighborhood where social status is clearly defined along lines of color, work, and behavior, while also trying to find his way in the insular black gay bar scene of his adolescence. The inhabitants in each of these communities are finely drawn with detailed observations, straddling the line between fiction and memoir with a compelling cast of characters. The effect is a zeitgeist captured through the lens of a young man exploring his burgeoning gay identity and learning how to navigate the wider class-driven world around him, resulting in a historical work that is also deeply insightful about contemporary life

A relentlessly honest reflection on surviving and thriving as a gay black man in America, The One Who’s Gonna See You Through by John Steven Welch is a triumphant and revelatory novel. The life of GJ Boils is rarely easy, from navigating the boarders in his childhood home to reckoning with an intentionally absent mother and his own culturally frowned-upon desires, his story is one of struggle, adaptation, and inspiring resilience. Welch’s moving portrait examines the unresolved and too often undiscussed conflicts of race and sexuality in our modern age, doing so through vulnerable and endearingly flawed characters. Written with a compelling narrative voice, pointed dialogue, and a powerful undercurrent of social commentary, this is a standout read that takes on issues rarely covered in fiction or memoir.

The One Who’s Gonna See You Through by John Steven Welch opens with a poignant scene: Gregory reflects on his father’s incarceration for murder, setting the stage for an exploration of his challenging yet formative years. Growing up in a predominantly black neighborhood with an absent mother and a single father, Gregory faces the complexities of his community with resilience. Despite his peers’ taunting and the local gossip, he cultivates a demeanor of kindness and a passion for volunteering, finding solace in his few but meaningful friendships.

Among the significant influences in his life is Miss Carrie, an elderly woman who becomes a surrogate mother figure, enriching Gregory’s life with her wisdom and support. The narrative deepens as Gregory, who is gay, confronts discrimination within his community, adding layers to his personal and social struggles. Welch masterfully blends elements of fiction with the introspective depth of a memoir, offering readers a vivid window into communal life and personal perseverance. The neighborhood’s vibrancy comes alive through anecdotes about Gregory’s neighbors, whose interactions are reminiscent of shared secrets and collective support. The novel not only navigates the hurdles of Gregory’s youth and adult life but also intersperses humor and valuable life lessons throughout, making it not just a compelling read but also an inspiring one. This book resonates deeply, mirroring real-life struggles and triumphs, and is a noteworthy addition to contemporary fiction.

The One Who’s Gonna See You Through offers a deeply personal yet universally resonant journey through the highs and lows of Gregory’s life, showcasing the enduring power of resilience and the importance of community. John Steven Welch’s narrative prowess shines as he weaves a story that is as much about overcoming adversity as it is about the impact of those we meet along the way. This novel invites readers into the heart of its characters’ lives, making it a memorable read for anyone interested in stories of personal growth and communal bonds.