For teens grappling with self-centeredness or learning to value others, this story explores friendship and self-discovery as a young actress connects with a unique director.
A parent might reach for this book when their teen seems overly focused on their own ambitions, perhaps becoming self-centered or judgmental of others. Kristin and Boone tells the story of a talented but selfish young actress whose world is turned upside down when she's cast in a play directed by Boone, a brilliant professional who is also a dwarf. The book follows Kristin’s journey from arrogance to empathy as she confronts her own prejudices and discovers the value of genuine friendship. It's an excellent choice for teens ages 12-16, particularly those in competitive activities, as it models how to look beyond first impressions and build meaningful, respectful relationships.
Published in 1983, some social norms and technology references may feel dated.
Sensitive Topics
The core theme is disability and ableism. The approach is direct and secular. The story portrays realistic, if dated, prejudice and stereotyping from the protagonist and other characters. Crucially, the character with a disability is not a victim; Boone is a confident, authoritative, and complex mentor figure. The resolution is hopeful, focusing on Kristin's personal growth and her changed perspective.
Ideal Reader
A 13 to 15-year-old involved in a competitive activity (theater, sports, debate) who may be struggling with teamwork or becoming overly focused on personal success. It's also suitable for a teen who is learning to navigate complex social dynamics and wants a story about forming an unlikely but meaningful friendship.
Parent Prep
Published in 1983, the book's language and social environment will feel dated. A parent might want to preview it to be ready for a conversation about how depictions of and attitudes toward disability have changed. Otherwise, the book can be read cold, but a post-reading conversation about prejudice would be highly valuable. A parent is concerned that their talented teen is becoming arrogant or unkind. They may have witnessed their child dismissing a peer's feelings or received feedback from a coach or teacher that their child is not a team player and struggles with empathy.
Age Experience
A younger reader (12-13) will connect with the friendship story and the straightforward message about kindness and not judging others. An older teen (14-16) is more likely to appreciate the nuances of artistic integrity, professional respect, and the subversion of stereotypes, as well as being more attuned to the dated aspects of the setting.
What Makes It Special
This book's primary strength is its subversion of common disability tropes. The character with dwarfism is the mentor, the authority figure, and the catalyst for the able-bodied protagonist's growth. He is not a person to be pitied or 'saved'; he is the one who leads. This role reversal is unique and powerful, especially for a book of its time.
Read plot summary
A talented but deeply self-absorbed high school actress, Kristin, is cast in a play and expects to be the star. She is initially dismissive and prejudiced toward the play's director, Boone, a respected professional who is a dwarf. Through Boone's patient mentorship, professional authority, and their developing friendship, Kristin is forced to confront her own selfishness and ignorance. The story charts her emotional growth as she learns about empathy, collaboration, and the meaning of true friendship beyond surface appearances.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
At the beginning of the book, Kristin makes assumptions about Boone based on his height. Why do you think people are sometimes quick to judge others based on appearance?
2
Boone is a director, a position of authority. How does his role as a leader challenge the stereotypes some characters in the book have about people with dwarfism?
3
Kristin starts out wanting only personal fame. By the end, what do you think she has learned is most important about being part of a play? How did Boone help her see that?
4
Kristin and Boone seem very different at first. What common ground do they find that allows them to build such a strong friendship?
5
If this story were written today, what parts of Kristin's behavior or the reactions of other students might be different? What would stay the same?
