The First Part Last

Angela Johnson's 'The First Part Last' offers a raw and intimate look into the life of Bobby, a 16-year-old African American boy in New York, as he grapples with becoming a father. Told through alternating 'then' and 'now' chapters, the story explores the initial shock of Nia's pregnancy, the couple's consideration of adoption, and Bobby's ultimate decision to raise their daughter, Feather. The narrative unflinchingly portrays the immense challenges of young parenthood, including Bobby's struggles with school, his parents' reactions, and the tragic complication of Nia falling into a permanent coma after childbirth. This book is a powerful exploration of responsibility, sacrifice, and the profound, transformative love a parent feels for their child, making it an excellent choice for discussions on difficult life choices and resilience.

Bobby's a classic urban teenager. He's restless. He's impulsive. But the thing that makes him different is this: He's going to be a father. His girlfriend, Nia, is pregnant, and their lives are about to change forever. Instead of spending time with friends, they'll be spending time with doctors, and next, diapers. They have options: keeping the baby, adoption. They want to do the right thing. If only it was clear what the right thing was.