Common Sense Media Review
By Michael Berry
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Delightful details of the author's first Euro trip and kiss.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 10+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
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 :
- Illustrator : Dan Santat
- Genre : Graphic Novel
- Topics : Adventures , Friendship , School ( 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, Apple Books, Kindle
- Award : Common Sense Selection
- Last updated : December 3, 2025
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