"Alan Cole Doesn't Dance" is a young adult novel written by Eric Bell. In Chapter 1, the main character, Alan Cole, introduces himself and gives readers a glimpse into his life. Here is a brief summary of Chapter 1:
Alan Cole is a middle school student who is grappling with his identity and the expectations placed on him. He comes from a conservative family, and his father is particularly strict about conforming to traditional gender roles. Alan has a twin sister named Madison, who excels at dancing and is the favorite child in the eyes of their father. In contrast, Alan struggles with dancing, and he fears that revealing his true self, including his love for a boy named Connor, would lead to rejection from his family and peers.
The chapter sets the stage for Alan's internal conflict and highlights the challenges he faces as he navigates the complexities of adolescence, identity, and societal expectations. Throughout the novel, Alan's journey involves self-discovery, acceptance, and the courage to be true to himself.