J.S. Pavoggi’s novel "Boy Altared" draws from his childhood in a Catholic family, his time as an altar boy, the social upheaval of the 1960s, and a pivotal health event that altered his worldview. The book combines personal experience with fiction, exploring themes like religion, authority, mentorship, trauma, and cultural change through its protagonist, Jamie, who navigates complex church relationships amid societal shifts in late 1960s San Francisco. Countercultural critiques inform J.S. Pavoggi’s portrayal of institutions and consciousness, while the story reflects core 1960s values—questioning authority, seeking authenticity, and historical awareness—showing how coming-of-age journeys are shaped by turbulent times.

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