The passion of a writer is often one which stems from defeat and loss. In "Hang Onto Your Teeth" Stephen Mead explores this psychological drama through the character of William Bradstreet, an author who has been creatively blocked since the murder of his gay son, Colin. Five years after his son's death, William at last begins the painful process of coming to terms with the sources of Colin's life and death. In theory it sounds simple enough: William just has to pick up a pen. Theory and actuality remain a searing conflict for William, however, especially as he forces himself to confront the prejudices he too had for his own child. With each page, "Hang Onto Your Teeth" leads the reader deeper into the interior of William's struggle, creating a tightrope of eloquent tension. The climax resulting from this is one of haunting impact and yet a lesson in the profoundly redeeming powers of love. Note: This paperback is formatted like a writer's journal with illustrated borders and a variety of fonts.