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Parents' Guide to

Better Nate Than Ever

By Darienne Stewart, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 10+

Terrific tale of misfit taking bold step to remake his life.

Book Tim Federle Coming of Age 2013
Better Nate Than Ever Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this book.

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age 13+

Based on 2 parent reviews

amycoko
amycoko Adult
July 21, 2014
age 12+

Inappropriate

If your own review says "At the outset, Nate says his sexuality is undecided and off-topic. He sees two boys kiss in a dance club, and in a few scenes speaks admiringly of men's looks. Libby sneaks a look into Anthony's underwear drawer and makes him flex, shirtless. There are fleeting references to a father's affair with an exotic dancer, strippers, pole dancing, a woman in a catsuit with leather "boobs," and the Museum of Sex. A "male porno mag" found in a student's locker is mentioned." then this book is not "green" for 10-year-olds. That's more than I've seen in any of your reviews for even 12-year-olds.
anonreviewer
anonreviewer Adult
July 7, 2020
age 13+

A hilarious book. Don't let the Karens fool you.

Alright, I'm writing a review only because none of these are accurate/even trying. Yes, it is a book with LGBT themes (and 2 sequel books include this. Sorry not sorry, homophobes). There is use of language like crap, hell, damn, all of that cool stuff, so I disagree with the CSM age rating and think it should be higher. Nate's witty and charming narration is impossible to dislike. Plus, he actually speaks like a normal kid, not like a braindead zombie. Numerous brands are mentioned often, but kids nowadays are smart enough to understand that though not intentional, they should be aware of name-brand references. Nothing out of place though. To be honest, this book series is one of a kind and I strongly suggest that you at least skim through the book.
See all 2 parent reviews

What's the Story?

Eighth-grader Nate Foster is a boy in love with Broadway but stuck in small-town western Pennsylvania, a misfit in a family that values sports and God. While his parents spend a weekend away to try to save their marriage, Nate's best friend Libby helps him execute a crazy plan: to sneak off to New York City to try out for E.T.: The Musical and return home before his parents notice. New York City is more amazing than he dreamed -- and the auditions more excruciating. Through heartache, joy, fear, and wild hope, Nate takes the biggest chance of his young life and has an adventure that changes his life in ways he didn't expect.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say (2 ):
Kids say (4 ):

Tim Federle's first novel, BETTER NATE THAN EVER, is fresh and funny, a joyful story for anyone who's felt like a misfit (which is just about everyone). What sets Nate apart and targets him for ridicule in Jankburg, Pa., makes him stand out -- winningly -- at the auditions.

It's also a celebration of New York City, capturing the thrill of a first encounter with the city in all its craziness -- much like the rush teens feel when they enjoy a taste of real independence. Federle nails the voice of a witty 13-year-old with one foot firmly planted in childhood and the other tentatively toeing toward adulthood. Nate chatters excitedly, sometimes doubling back to fill in gaps even as he shares the latest developments. The energetic storytelling crackles with smart one-liners and quirks fans will embrace. Nate's a lovable hero for misfits and dreamers everywhere, and especially for young gay teens and kids who, like Nate, aren't ready to declare anything about their sexuality.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about whether the frequent use of brand names helps or distracts from the story. Do they risk dating the story, or do they add to a sense of time and place?

  • The tables are turned when one of Nate's bullies is caught with a magazine that makes him a target for anti-gay bullying, but Nate stands up for his tormenter. For help talking about bullying and how to be an upstander, read our article "Bullying Is Everybody's Business."

  • Why do you think musicals seem to be gaining in popularity? Do you think it's the influence of shows like Glee and movies like High School Musical?

Book Details

Did we miss something on diversity?

Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.

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