A First Time for Everything
Delightful details of the author's first Euro trip and kiss.
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this book.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that A First Time for Everything is a graphic novel about Caldecott-wining author-illustrator Dan Santat's European vacation at age 13. Set in 1989, the story follows Dan as he makes new friends, tries new foods, and takes a chance on romance. Funny, insightful, it's perfectly aimed at its eighth-grade audience, but will delight a wide range of readers. No swearing. Romance includes is a crush, hand-holding, a first kiss that's illustrated, and other kisses implied. Adults smoke cigarettes on a plane, and Dan drinks beer at a beer hall.
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What's the Story?
As A FIRST TIME FOR EVERYTHING opens, Dan Santat has just finished eight grade and recalls being bullied at school. He has low expectations for high school, figuring that he will continue to be bullied. But his parents insist that he join a three-week trip to Europe, and soon he finds himself enjoying the sights in London, Paris, and Germany. With a new set of friends, he's more confident, and even thinks about finding himself a summer girlfriend. Is he ready for the heartbreak that separation will bring?
Is It Any Good?
Everyone remembers their first kiss, and this heartfelt graphic memoir captures its magic. In A First Time for Everything, Dan Santat brings all of his formidible storytelling skills to bear on the project, with expressive, kinetic artwork and an ear for how kids reallly talk. His is the kind of vacation everyone wishes they'd had, full of adventure and self-revelation.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how A First Time First Everything celebrates travel. What benefits do Dan and his fellow travelers get from taking a trip to Europe? If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go?
Travel is a lot different from how it was in 1989. What freedoms could teens enjoy then that aren't available today?
Why is middle school so difficult for so many kids? What strategies can they take to make those years more productive and enjotable?
How are Dan and his friends are curious, compassionate, and how do they display teamwork?
Book Details
- Author: Dan Santat
- Illustrator: Dan Santat
- Genre: Graphic Novel
- Topics: Adventures, Friendship, Great Girl Role Models, Middle School
- Character Strengths: Communication, Curiosity, Self-control
- Book type: Non-Fiction
- Publisher: First Second
- Publication date: February 28, 2023
- Publisher's recommended age(s): 10 - 14
- Number of pages: 320
- Available on: Paperback, Hardback, iBooks, Kindle
- Award: Common Sense Selection
- Last updated: March 14, 2023
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For kids who love grapahic novels and memoirs
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