
Reach for this book if you have a middle schooler who feels like a 'fish out of water' or is struggling to find a place where their unique talents are celebrated. It is an ideal choice for children navigating the pressures of performance, the anxiety of high stakes environments, and the fluttery nerves of a first crush. The story follows Nate as he navigates the professional world of Broadway, balancing the thrill of a big break with the reality of being an understudy. Through Nate's witty and vulnerable perspective, the book explores self-confidence, the importance of hard work, and the courage required to be oneself in a competitive world. It is highly appropriate for ages 10 to 14, offering a supportive look at LGBTQ+ identity and the transition into young adulthood. Parents will appreciate the humor and the realistic portrayal of how a supportive passion can help a child find their voice.
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Sign in to write a reviewNate must navigate the 'dog-eat-dog' world of show business and professional rivalry.
Includes a sweet, age-appropriate first crush and a first kiss between two boys.
None.
A 12-year-old theater kid who feels like they have to dim their light at school but dreams of a world where being 'too much' is exactly what is required. This is for the child who needs to see that professional success and personal identity can grow hand-in-hand.
This book can be read cold. It is a joyful, affirming sequel that handles Nate's professional and personal growth with grace. Parents may want to be ready to discuss the reality of the entertainment industry, including the hard work and competition that happen behind the scenes. A parent might hear their child expressing 'imposter syndrome' or feeling like they aren't as talented as their peers. They might notice their child is anxious about a big performance or feeling lonely because their interests don't align with the local status quo.
Readers on the younger end (10 to 11) will likely focus on the 'wish fulfillment' of the Broadway stage and the slapstick humor. Older readers (13 to 14) will connect more deeply with Nate's internal journey regarding his identity, the nuances of first crushes, and the complicated dynamics of workplace friendships.
Unlike many books about the arts that focus on the struggle of being an outsider, Federle focuses on the 'arrival.' It provides a rare, authentic look at the actual mechanics of a Broadway production through a lens of 'Queer Joy,' making the professional world feel accessible and affirming rather than just a source of trauma.
Nate Foster has finally made it from his small town in Pennsylvania to New York City. As an understudy in 'E.T.: The Musical,' he deals with the grueling schedule of Broadway rehearsals, professional rivalries, and the intense pressure of being a 'swing' performer who must know every part. When the lead actor is sidelined, Nate faces the ultimate test of his talent and nerves while navigating his first romantic feelings for a fellow cast member.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.