And the Winner is…
Exciting news in the literary world: Erin Entrada Kelly has clinched her second Newbery Medal with her latest masterpiece, The First State of Being. This captivating novel whisks readers back to 1999, blending the nostalgia of the pre-millennium era with a thrilling time-travel twist. I adore this book and Erin Entrada Kelly. She is a wonderful human being and author. You should definitely give her a follow on her social media accounts! @erinentrada
A Glimpse into the Story:
Meet Michael, a middle schooler navigating the typical trials of adolescence. His world takes an unexpected turn when he befriends Ridge, who astonishingly claims to be the world’s first time traveler. As Ridge immerses himself in the wonders of 1999—think microwaves, basketball, and bustling malls—Michael’s curiosity is piqued by a mysterious book Ridge possesses, detailing events of the next two decades. This discovery ignites a burning desire in Michael: to seize the knowledge of the future.
Why This Book Shines:
Kelly masterfully intertwines themes of friendship, curiosity, and the ethical dilemmas of foreknowledge. Her rich character development and the humorous misadventures of a time traveler adapting to the ’90s make for an engaging read. The story is not only entertaining but also gives readers a chance to reflect on the value of living in the moment and the potential consequences of tampering with time. Ridge’s “First State of Being” philosophy is one to write down and follow whether you are a kid or an adult. Kelly also very slyly brings us into the world of someone that struggles with anxiety. In today’s society, so many kids are having similar struggles to those that Michael has. For these children, this book is a MUST read. It will help them see they are not alone, and give them great guidance on how to live in the moment.
About the Author:
Erin Entrada Kelly is no stranger to accolades. She previously won the Newbery Medal in 2018 for Hello, Universe and received a Newbery Honor in 2021 for We Dream of Space. Her storytelling often draws from her Filipino American heritage, offering diverse perspectives that resonate with readers of all backgrounds.
Why You Should Dive In:
The First State of Being is more than just a time-travel adventure; it’s a heartfelt exploration of identity, choices, and the timeless challenges of growing up. It’s a must-read for middle-grade students and adults alike.
For Educators:
Looking to introduce this gem to your classroom? I’ve crafted a comprehensive novel study packet available on my Teachers Pay Teachers (TPT) store. This resource includes chapter-by-chapter comprehension questions and assessments, designed to make teaching the book a breeze and to deepen students’ understanding.
You should also check out Erin Entrada Kelly’s Those Kids From Fawn Creek. It is a fantastic middle-grade fiction book that explores the world of cliches, bullies, and “pack mentality” in middle school. I love this book and its characters.
Don’t miss out on this literary journey. Grab your copy of The First State of Being, and let the adventure begin!