Wow, The First Part Last is an incredible book! I loved this story so much. I haven’t been so emotionally affected by a book in a long time — probably not since The Book Thief or The Time Traveler’s Wife. This title was definitely deserving of the 2004 Michael L. Printz Award, and I will be strongly encouraging my two teenage sons to read and/or listen to it.
Sixteen year old Bobby is raising his daughter Feather alone — well, primarily alone. Feather’s mother and her family aren’t in the picture and his own mother and father are “grandparents, not parents.” Although it is crystal clear that Bobby loves his daughter, he is exhausted and not prepared for what fatherhood entails. He does the best he can, though, and his character is admirable.
I listened to the audio of this book, and it is sooooooo good. The story is narrated by Khalipa Oldjohn, who did an absolutely wonderful job. It’s only on 2 discs and is 1 hour and 42 minutes long, so I strongly encourage you to take up the audio if it’s available at your library.
Highly, highly recommended for those who love young adult literature or who are participating in The Printz Project.
2003, 131 pp.
I have requested this audiobook from my library. Thanks for the recommend.
Petunia, I hope you like it. I was a bit surprised that I did concerning the subject matter but I thought it was well done.
Wow! I am off to hunt for this one!
[recovering comments lost in a blog crash]
Author : Joy
URL : http://thoughtsofjoyblog.blogspot.com
Comment: I’m going to check my library online – right now
~~~~~~~ (that’s me waving good-bye)
I put it on hold! I’ll pick it up the next time I stop by the library.
Thanks, 3M.
Author : Teddy
URL : http://teddyrose.blogspot.com
Comment: Wonderful review. I just added it to my TBR. My library has the audio, yeah.
Author : Suey
URL : http://www.sueysbooks.blogspot.com
Comment: I started this one but had to take it back to the library. Okay, so next time I go, I’m for sure getting it again!
This is a wonderful book. Two of my girls loved it and I recommended it many times to students in my library. The audio suggestion is great. We also loved “Heaven”, and “Looking for Red”.
I finally got around to listening to it. I cried for about the last half hour. Wowwy Zowwy! Thanks so much for recommending it. Now, how to write a review that gives nothing away but intices the readers, like you did.
Petunia, I cried, too. I’m so glad you enjoyed itll!