You Go First by Erin Entrada Kelly masterfully explores the themes of friendship and resilience through relatable characters. Critics appreciate its nuanced portrayal of middle school challenges. While the emotional depth is praised, some find the pacing slow at times. Overall, it's an engaging and meaningful read for young audiences.

You Go First by Erin Entrada Kelly would resonate with middle-grade readers who appreciate heartfelt stories about friendship, family, and personal growth. Fans of Wonder by R.J. Palacio and Inside Out and Back Again by Thanhha Lai will enjoy its emotional depth and relatable characters facing life's challenges.

In You Go First by Erin Entrada Kelly, Charlotte Lockard and Ben Boxer, friends who’ve only met through online Scrabble, face personal turmoil: Charlotte's father has a heart attack, and Ben's parents announce their divorce. Seeking solace in their virtual friendship, they support each other through the challenges of middle school, family dynamics, and bullying. The book discusses bullying and includes instances of derogatory language about mental health conditions.

Contemplative / Emotional / Bittersweet / Melancholic / Heartwarming

- Erin Entrada Kelly, the author of You Go First, was awarded the 2018 Newbery Medal for her novel Hello, Universe.
- The story of You Go First explores themes of friendship and personal growth through the lives of two middle school students living in different states who connect through online Scrabble games.
- Erin Entrada Kelly has been praised for her ability to create relatable and diverse characters, which is reflected in her stories, including You Go First.

Erin Entrada Kelly

Middle grade

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

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Before You Read You Go First | SuperSummary

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Overview

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You Go First Summary and Study Guide

Background

You Go First Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “Monday”

Part 1 You Go First Part 1 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “Tuesday” 

Part 2 You Go First Part 2 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “Wednesday”

Part 3 You Go First Part 3 Summary & Analysis

Part 4: “Thursday” 

Part 4 You Go First Part 4 Summary & Analysis

Part 5: “Friday” - Part 6: “Saturday”

Parts 5-6

You Go First Parts 5-6 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

You Go First Character Analysis

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Themes

You Go First Themes

Symbols & Motifs

You Go First Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

You Go First Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

You Go First Essay Topics

You Go First

Before You Read

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Book Details