About This Book
This engaging young adult novel follows three ninth-graders, T.C., Augie, and Alé, through a pivotal year of self-discovery and first loves. Best friends T.C. and Augie, who consider themselves unofficial brothers, each experience romance for the first time. T.C. pursues Alé, a smart and spirited girl, while Augie comes to terms with his crush on another boy. The story is narrated through alternating perspectives, offering a humorous and heartfelt look at navigating identity, friendship, and family. It gently explores themes of self-acceptance, loyalty, and the magic found in everyday life, making it a wonderful read for teenagers exploring their own identities and relationships.
Three teenagers in Boston narrate their experiences of a year of new friendships, first loves, and coming into their own.
Romantic Content
Discussion Prompts
1
How do T.C., Augie, and Alé each grow and change throughout their 'most excellent year'?
2
What role does friendship play in helping the characters navigate their first loves and personal discoveries?
3
How does the book portray Augie's journey of realizing he has a crush on a boy? What messages does it send about identity and acceptance?
4
The book mentions Mary Poppins and Fenway Park. How do these cultural references add to the story's charm and setting?
5
What does it mean to 'come into your own,' and how do the characters in this book achieve that?
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