Arthur is sixteen growing up in Mason, Missouri. He is a quiet boy who likes nature, helping people, and he thinks a lot. He’s close to his older brother Frank who protects him from their father, an abusive veteran who drinks too much and starts fights. Sixteen is the perfect time for first love and Arthur falls for Nola the most popular girl in the class. Unfortunately, she has a crush on Frank, but the two become friends.
This is a quiet book. The characters are deftly portrayed. They’re the kind of people you’d like to know. Much of the book is filled with the joy and anguish of being a teenager, but there is sadness and tragedy. Through all of, Arthur’s quiet winning personality shines through.
I found this book truly delightful. Arthur is the kind of boy you’d like to have living next door. He is comfortable with nature and with helping older people, who he befriends. Although tragedy strikes the family and Arthur’s love life is not what he wishes it were, he continues to be a thoughtful boy growing into a caring adult.
This is a book that makes you glad about living on earth and having boys like Arthur growing up there. I recommend this book. It made me feel happy and hopeful. I hope it will have the same effect on you.
I received this book from Penguin Random House for this review.
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