96 pages 3 hours read

Matthew Quick

Boy21

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2012

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

Boy21 by Matthew Quick tells the story of Finley McManus, the only white student on his high school’s varsity basketball team, who meets a new student, Russ (Boy21), an intelligent basketball prodigy whose parents were recently murdered. Their friendship grows amid personal trauma and societal violence, leading Finley to re-evaluate his priorities and relationships. The novel deals with violence and racism.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Matthew Quick's Boy21 is a compelling, multilayered novel that explores themes of grief, friendship, and redemption. Praised for its authentic characters and emotional depth, the book effectively captures the struggles and growth of its protagonists. Some critics note moments of predictability, but the overall narrative remains engaging and heartfelt.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Boy21?

Readers who enjoy Boy21 by Matthew Quick usually appreciate young adult novels that blend sports, personal growth, and friendship. This book will appeal to fans of The Perks of Being a Wallflower and Looking for Alaska, due to its focus on overcoming obstacles, deep character relationships, and themes of resilience and identity.

Recommended

Reading Age

14-18years

Book Details

Genre

Realistic Fiction

Themes

Relationships: Fathers

Relationships: Friendship