Audiobook -- Better Nate Than Ever

Title: Better Nate Than Ever   

Author: Time Federle

Date: 2014


Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio; Unabridged edition

ISBN: 978-1442374157

Format: Audiobook

Summary: Stuck in a small town in Pennsylvania, 13-year-old Nate Foster feels alienated and out of place. So when an opportunity comes up to go to New York City to audition for E.T. The Musical, Nate devises a plan with his best friend Libby to go to the audition and get back before his parents notice he is missing. Nate realizes that New York is even better than he dreamed and has a hard time leaving, despite the trouble he is in.

Audience: The recommended audience for this book is children aged 9-13. There are a variety of themes discussed in the book, including sibling rivalry, bullying, religious parents, and gay or questioning teens, that could be controversal for some parents. However, multiple reviews list the book as appropriate for 9-13 year olds, including a review from School Library Journal that says the topics have a "remarkably lighthearted and humorous touch totally appropriate for young audiences". Regardless, some discretion may be needed.

Strengths: This book has several strenghts that make it an ideal choice for listeners. First, it is read by the author, Tim Federle, who has performed and coached on Broadway, so the audio is entertaining and the story is read with a zest that keeps readers engaged. Another strength is the book's approach to difficult topics, such as bullying and sexuality. These topics are presented in a way that helps the reader relate to Nate without getting to caught up in specifics. It also sends a positive message for listeners who may be dealing with these types of issues. Nate doesn't feel comfortable in his hometown, but he finds a place where he does feel at home and its only a short bus ride away. So while Nate has to endure some hard times, he sees that things will not always be that way. Overall, the book sends a positive message to listeners of any age.

Weaknesses: The weaknesses of this book are those issues mentioned above in regard to content. While discussing incidents of bullying and sexuality, derogatory terms for homosexuals are used by some of the characters. This could result in some children not having access to the book or lead to parental complaints. Because of this, the book may not be appropriate for all listeners, especially those in the younger age range.

Uses: This book would be useful in a classroom setting as an example of some of the issues teenagers face and how these issues can be overcome. Conversations about bullying, sibling rivalries, parental problems and body changes could all be approached by listening to this book. Also, this book would be a good recommendation for listeners who are questioning their sexuality. The audio version can be downloaded and listened to on smart phones or other personal audio devices, ensuring a level of privacy for those who may not feel comfortable with others knowing what is being read.

Read-alikes: Five, Six, Seven, Nate! by Tim Federle

Totally Joe by James Howe

Drama by Raina Telgemeier

Awards: New York Times Book Review Notable Book of 2013, Golden Kite Fiction Winner, a Stonewall Honor Book, an Odyssey Honor Book.