Kevin Esser

Kevin Esser is a novelist from Illinois. He is best known for his novel "Streetboy Dreams," a semi-autobiographical work about a young schoolteacher's complex relationship with a 14-year-old streetboy. Kevin Esser was described as a 30-year-old elementary school music teacher at the time of the interview in 1984. He was born in 1953, supposedly. Esser describes himself as a nomad, who had lived in various countries including England, France, Switzerland, Spain, Portugal, Morocco, and Mexico, but in 1984 resided in a small Illinois town.

He described himself sexually active from 14, involved in sexual activity with peers, and when he got older - as an adult with boys. Esser has published over 30 short stories, many of them were published in boylove story anthologies (see The Panthology Reader, The Acolyte Reader), and some in NAMBLA publications. His works explore themes of man-boy relationships, unconventionality and personal identity.

Some works and publications

There are many his publications one may find at different locations.

• Streetboy Dreams - 1983

The lonely teacher offers 14 yo boy shelter from an abusive home. Both man and boy fight awkwardly against their growing attraction.

• Mad to Be Saved - 1985

An autobiographical novel by Kevin Esser that draws heavily on his experiences. The story reflects the protagonist's journey through adolescent life's challenges, marked by drug use, existential search, and sexuality exploration.

• Dance of the Warriors - 1988

Set in a dystopian mid-21st century America devastated by Christian fundamentalist policies, this novel follows the harrowing journey of a young teen named Teddy as he navigates a world where non-heterosexuals are persecuted, striving for freedom

• Something Like Happiness - 1993

A handsome 14-year-old boy Andy falls intoxicatingly in love with his neighbor, Matthew, who has just reached puberty and who hero-worships Andy.

• Dans van de krijgers - 1995

A novel in which two boys, who are lovers, are locked up in a camp in Utah, and a group of young freedom fighters fight to free their comrades.

• Voodoo - 1998
• Salvation - 2003
• Dreamboy Variations - 2005

A series of interrelated tales or episodes following one man's erotic adventures through the boyscape of modern America

• Short Stories

1. Cryptogram

2. Confirmation

3. Salvation

4. Swimboy (excerpted from Voodoo)

5. Easter Bunnies (excerpted from Voodoo)

6. BAGGY-PANTS THUGGERY & HIP-HOP BURLESQUE: CLOTHING AS SEXUAL POLITICS IN AMERICA (essay)

• Esser’s novels in anthologies:

• The Panthology Reader
• The Acolyte Reader
• The Pan Magazine Reader

See also

• Acolyte Press