Family Values is a compelling tale about a gay teenager who is found brutally assaulted and left for dead. What led to this event and how his family comes to terms with an act of violence is a story told over generations. In tone this novel is much like Jessamyn West's The Friendly Persuasion, set in the 21st century. Family Values demonstrates how the power of love and acceptance found in family can be transformative. It is about a family's struggle to find grace in the face of adversity.