It's a set-up we see sometimes in novels - a character takes a move to a new town as a chance for reinvention. It's less common for that character to be a teen boy. And to be fair, Zack doesn't set out to change; the change happens naturally as he adapts to circumstances. He stays open to new experiences which lead him to question things he's held to be true about himself. This allows for a plot that is introspective and thoughtful without digging very deep. Zack draws quick conclusions, not changes wrought through long struggles. While the book doesn't push too hard, it is reflective enough to make for a quiet, contemplative read.

I wanted to like this book: the 90s setting sounded interesting, and I really liked the protagonist, Zack, forced to move from Arizona to Berkeley when his parents got a divorce. His efforts to fit in at a new school felt real and relatable, and I felt for him as he navigated the difficult experience of losing connection with his father. and trying to make new friends

But I really disliked everyone else in the book: Zack's parents, Matthias, and Zack's girlfriend Zaylee. I really didn't understand the hold they had over Zack, particularly when they treated him so poorly. And while I acknowledge that 90s skate culture is not something I'm familiar with, Matthias was a stereotype of that culture in a way that felt unrelatable to the students I've met who ascribe to it. As a teacher, it also bothered me how focused Zack was on his weight and body image: while I think this is something real that many students can relate to, it's never addressed as potentially unhealthy or problematic, and it makes me nervous to see that represented as normal, healthy behavior in teen fiction, especially if it's being recommended to them by a trusted adult.

Awww the good old days. The 90s is definitely making a comeback! So nice to have this sweet relatable novel of friendship set in one of the most missed and iconic decades in history. Will be providing a full review.