In 1940, the threat of World War II was just beginning to tighten its grip on the world and had already altered the lives of every American citizen. During this tumultuous time, it was easy for an adolescent to feel adrift on an ocean of confusing emotions. Growing up in a Jewish family living on the east coast, Alan felt misunderstood by his parents, ignored by his older brother, and overwhelmed by his evolving sexuality and his complete lack of...