How wonderful to tour a city and its grand temples! How incredible to walk beside a lady ... Such yearnings are fostered in Shawn as he timidly reaches adulthood, in this story of self-discovery. Centering on one's inner life, the novel depicts its growing protagonist with candor, whether his imagination sparks him into inspired visions of self-aggrandizement, or he becomes troubled by bitterness, isolation, and fears about his own nature. These troubles stay with Shawn even when he bravely sets out on adventure, even when the world seems to open up for him -- until, finally, he learns that fulfilment comes in the most unlikely of forms.