Boy21

Boy21 is a a good read that turns the darkness of the reality we all live in and in some ways, our individual burdens, into a message of hope. This theme is similar to other books that Matthew Quick has written. I personally liked "A Silver Lining Playbook" and "Sorta Like a Rock Star" slightly more. A similar theme can be found in Alicia Bisset's "A Pinch of Love" My understanding is the Silver Lining Playbook will be on screen late this fall. I read more than go to movies but this one may be worth the viewing.

I started reading this after enjoying Silver Linings. Although this book seemed to have potential, I lost interest about 60% into. The whole 'outer space' thing gets old after a while. The character development stagnates and the story line doesnt go anywhere. I'm sure it does end up somewhere but by that time the reader is already looking for other books.

I received an advanced copy of this book and gave it to my 14 year old son, who thought the cover was cool. He hadn't read much the past several years, despite being an avid reader when he was a kid, so my hopes weren't high. Imagine my surprise, when I found him curled up in front of the heater hours later, with Boy 21 in his hands, oblivious to everything around him. He kept his eyes on the pages of the book for the next several days, ignoring almost everything else, before he handed it back and declared it the best book he'd ever read and insisted that I read it too. Matthew Quick has a true 'boy' voice that will resonate with even the most reluctant reader and I loved both the action and the gentle story that lay underneath. A great book all around - a stunning contemporary that soars with imagination and heart. I can't recommend it enough, and thank Matthew for reigniting my son's love of reading.

Plain and simple, Boy21 is a GREAT book. I was on the search for a quality read aloud for my freshmen English classes, so I picked up Boy21 on a whim. I wanted to read it anyway, but I kept thinking about my 3rd hour freshmen class that's primarily boys who don't enjoy reading. Boy21 seemed like the perfect fit for them, so I went with my hunch and started reading it. As soon as I read the first couple chapters I knew I made the right decision.

Finley's voice really stands out on the page, which is ironic considering he doesn't like to talk much. He actually reminds me a little bit of Lucky Linderman from Everybody Sees the Ants by A.S. King. Both Lucky and Finley have a sort of innocence about them. They both have trouble speaking up for themselves, and they also want what's best for those around them. Just like Lucky, Finley is an admirable character.

One of the reasons I like Finley is because he's so loyal to his friends, coach, and family. When his coach approaches him about helping Boy21 (Russ), Finley doesn't hesitate to offer his help. He trusts his coach, so even though he worries that Russ could take his starting position on the basketball team, he still tries to make friends with Russ. Russ has an obsession with space and refers to himself as Boy21, but he and Finley pair up well. They're both amazing basketball players, even though Russ doesn't show this right away, and they both deal with unfair treatment. They're both treated poorly for different reasons, much of which is based on race and rivalry, but it still serves as a bond. After a startling and tragic turn of events, Finley really grows as a character. His loyalties are tested and he begins to doubt what's truly important in his life. He begins to question his life, where it's going-if anywhere-and what really happened years ago that caused him to be such a quiet, good kid. I love being able to witness this kind of characterization, which is one of the biggest reasons I enjoyed Matthew Quick's novel so much.

Boy21 by Matthew Quick is a novel that appeals to a variety of readers. My basketball players and sports fiction fans will enjoy the basketball scenes and references in Boy21. My fans of great contemporary realistic fiction will recognize what a superb example this is of that genre. Readers will connect with Finley, Erin, and Russ. They'll feel the tension and suspense, they'll laugh out loud, and they might even cry (I did).

Silver Linings Playbook is one of my all-time favourite books. I have also read his latest three books and also enjoyed them so I made it my mission to go back and play catch-up with the rest of his back catalogue.
In this book, we meet Finlay, he is fast approaching his senior year at school and, being something of a whizz at basketball, he is looking to use this as his escape from his home-town of Belmont. He spends most of his time shooting hoops with his girlfriend Erin, a star in her own right on the woman's team and things for them are more or less ticking along nicely. Until that is one day his coach comes to him and tasks him with a special mission. He wants him to help a fellow student. One who has suffered some personal tragedy and has, shall we say, gone a wee bit off kilter, Russ is convinced he is from outer space and wants to be known as Boy21. He is, or was before this all happened, a bit of a basketball star too, and coach reckons that Finlay is the right person for the job as he also suffered tragedy in his past too. Basically, coach wants Finlay to get Russ playing basketball again. Problem is, Russ plays same position as Finlay so, if Finlay succeeds, he will lose his starting position and, if thus happens, his dream of escape will go south...
There is just something special about the characters that this author creates. He has a great skill in creating credible wounded souls without them being over the top. He also puts them into some rather interesting situations and really tests them. Here is no exception. Finlay is called upon to help his coach and, a good player, always obeys his coach. Problem is, he has to do it with the chance that success in his mission will possibly mean he will personally lose out. Dilemma indeed. If that wasn't enough to contend with, there is also the issues of his town, his family, his girlfriend and the mob which all add a whole other spin on most everything that happens.
Gosh, I do paint the book as a bit doom and gloom. Well, some of it is rather emotional in that way, but we also have quite a lot of positive stuff going on too. There are some very funny moments as well as quite a few tender ones and, of course, there's always hope.
I guess it helps that I am a big basketball fan as it does feature quite heavily in the story. It probably also helped that my fave player (Tim Duncan) wore 21 so I think that connection made the reading experience a bit more personal for me.
All in all, a thoroughly satisfying book that I got totally immersed in, reading start to finish in only a few hours. Mr Quick is soon becoming one of my favourite authors.

by Reece

Matthew Quick wrote Boy 21 in 2012. Boy 21 is good read that has many aspects that young adults can relate too.

Boy 21 is about a boy names Finley who loves to watch and play basketball. He is a senior and has a starting position on his high school basketball team. Pre-season, Finley puts hard work in to preparing for the season. When the season is about to begin, his coach asks him to look after a basketball phenom, who just moved to town, after a tragic murder of his parents. They were murdered and forced Russ, or Boy 21, to move in with his grandparents. This tragedy set Russ into thinking his is from outer space and that his parents are coming back to get him. Finley begins to learn Russ and they get close. Russ is Finley’s shadow following him around and doing whatever Finley says. The basketball season begins and Finley is starting, but coach wants Russ to play too. They both play point guard and Finley has to make a hard choice as to whether to let Russ take his spot or continue playing. This book is good for young readers because it is based in high school and has sports, romance, and hard decisions in it. This is a good summary of young adults because they are figuring out what they wanna be and do as they are growing up. “You don't always get the role you're going to play in life, but it's good to play whatever role you got the best way you can.” Boy21 is relatable and is why i enjoyed it, i could relate to the things Finley was going through.

Boy 21 is relatable to young adults. It has many aspects that you might go through that i enjoyed reading about.

Matthew Quick’s Boy21 is published as a book for young adults, but that shouldn’t keep regular adults from reading this moving novel about two teenage boys moving toward manhood. As with all Quick novels, his characters are engaging, their issues are moving, and his writing is first-rate.

Finley McManus lives in fictional Bellmont on the outskirts of Philadelphia. “Bellmont’s too complicated for me to explain in a sentence. The drugs, the violence, the racial tension, the Irish mob—how do you explain who runs the town when you could get killed just for saying the words Irish job? I keep my mouth shut.” In fact, McManus spends most of his life just keeping his mouth shut. Living with his father and grandfather, he lives to play basketball and dates the star of the women’s team, Erin. Before his junior year, Coach comes around to ask McManus a favor: Russell Washington Allen, an unbelievably talented high school basketball star lost his parents in a tragic way. He is coming to Bellmont to live with his grandparents under an assumed name. Coach asks McManus to take Allen under his wing. McManus and Allen are a strange pair. McManus is white, Allen is black. McManus works tremendously hard at basketball, but for Allen, it’s a natural gift. But McManus was also exposed to tragedy, which he has never properly death with. This unusual friendship will help boy boys to heal and teach McManus that there are more important things than basketball.

At first, Allen tells everyone that he is from outer space and calls himself Boy21, although he has to suppress is “otherworldly” self when at school. Told in the first person, McManus has to tip-toe through his evolving friendship with Allen. And while McManus does help Allen move past the loss of his parents, Allen returns the favor in ways McManus never expected. As a retired teacher, I am always amazed at the process whereby a boy becomes a man, and Boy21 shows how two young men navigate the shoals of their teenage years as they move forward to become adults. Matthew Quick is a master at taking a peek inside the brain of a male teen and sharing it with his readers. We are much richer for his efforts.

After reading Matthew Quick's amazing novel Forgive Me, Leonard Peacock earlier this year I was thrilled to have the opportunity to review the author's latest release in the UK, now aimed at a younger audience.

After being so impressed by the first book I read from Quick, I admit I had incredibly high expectations for this one and because of this it was hard to give it a fair shot - as it simply wasn't quite as good as Leonard Peacock. Don't get me wrong, this was still an excellent piece of writing, particularly aimed at this age group, but it wasn't one of those novels I can't stop thinking about and I find myself recommending extensively to everyone who is looking for a new read.

In fact, while I was impressed by the writing whilst reading, I kept putting off publishing my review as I found it difficult to think of something defining to say about the novel. What made it stand out from other reads and why should people pick it up when dozens of new books get published each week?

The story centers on Finley, a bit of a misfit he lives for the game of basketball, a passion he shares with his one and only friend, also his girlfriend, Erin. The two are glued at the hip during off-season, though they have a rule that they take a break during b-ball season - so they can fully focus on the sport and their roles in their respective teams.

As the only white player in his team, Finley is used to being an outcast but he is okay with that because he has Erin, his dad and Pop. However, his role in the team and the fact that he's somewhat removed from his team mates make him (according to his coach) the perfect person to befriend a new kid qho is about to join the same high school, one who goes by the name of Boy21.

Boy21, formerly known as Russell, was a basketball wunderkind who hasn't played since his parents were murdered. Now having moved in with distant relatives, his family hopes that he can make a fresh start at a new school and perhaps even snap out of his obsession with outer space. They think that with a kindhearted friend like Finley this may be possible. The only problem is, that Boy21 was one of the best basketball players of his age in the country and if Finley does help him and he gets his mojo back, then they'll be competing for the same spot in the team.

With big letters, a slightly simplistic form of storytelling and a low page number this is definitely a novel aimed at a younger audience, but that doesn't make the themes of acceptance and friendship that run through it any less valid. In fact, aimed at such an impressionable audience it's even more important to show what a difference a kind word and an offer of friendship can bring to the life of someone who is traumatised and broken.

I loved seeing the dynamic between Finley and Boy21, and in a smaller way Erin, change throughout the course of the novel. Yes, there were up and downs as neither of the characters were selfless angels, but in the end they knew what was right and what was wrong, and it's their unusual bond that gets them through the toughest of times when a secret from Finley's past comes back to make his life miserable.

While Boy21 had a gentle start of hesitating friendship and loyalty, it burst into a roller-coaster ride of revelations towards the end. And it was heartwarming to read how even the most unlikeliest of people can form such meaningful relationships and change the course of another person's life.

3.5 stars

When my husband saw the cover of Boy 21, he observed that Boy 21 looked as it were science fiction. In reality, Boy 21 is set in a small town on this planet in which we all live and is the tale of how two teenage boys become friends while trying to help each other through their own private hell. Finley seems to have a fairly normal life, especially when you throw in his love of basketball, but there is a reason why Finley barely talks, his mom is absent, and his grandfather is in a wheelchair. Boy 21 is the alter ego that newcomer Russ has created to accept the murder of his parents. If he relinquishes this identity and becomes a basketball star again, he'll compete for Finley's spot and therefore jeopardize his friendship with Finley. You'd think this would be enough trauma for two young boys to handle, except then another tragedy happens which changes both them and their families forever.

Although told solely from the viewpoint of Finley, Boy 21 has two strong story lines or maybe even three. The first is about Finley, who loves basketball and his girlfriend Erin. On the surface, Finley's story is about his desire to play basketball and his father's philosophy that one can do anything one tries. Finley is not a great basketball player, but he tries maybe harder than anyone, and that ends up being enough to land him a spot on the school team. This plot alone is a terrific one, and especially hard-hitting when Finley realizes that one sometimes doesn't get to pick their role in life. There's also a twist where the coach asks Finley to help Russ, but not to let anyone know about Russ's past. Is the coach right to place this burden on Finley? Is the coach right to demand it, without at the same time allowing that Finley might have his own burdens to handle? These are tough questions, which lead to Finley to recognize that other teachers might also have insights to offer. I never knew what would happen next to Finley and that makes for a riveting read.

The second story line is about Boy 21. In a way, despite its dark nature, this tale is a simpler one. When the two boys meet, Russ talks about outer space, acts as if his parents are out there waiting for him, and claims that he is not from this world. I know this doesn't sound simple, but there aren't any twists on this story line. Basically, Russ hides behind his space obsession until he is ready to relinquish it. How he comes to that point and how his space obsession actually helps Finley is up to you to discover for yourself. Just know that both of these things happen, but that Boy 21 is a complex story because it isn't simply about how a boy comes to terms with the murder of his parents. It's also about why the coach asked Finley to help out Russ, how the lives of the two boys intertwine, and why eventually Finley walks away from both the coach and Russ to focus on a third person in his life.

This last story line involves gangs and felt the least real to me. This doesn't mean the events couldn't happen, just that my only exposure to such situations has been on cop shows. Then again, I normally have little trouble buying into fantasy, which obviously is far removed from my life experience. Is it that despite hints through foreshadowing, one of the twists didn't quite fit? No, I suspect the truth is that because in every other way Quick made me feel as if I could have been reading about the kid next door, the gang world simply felt too far removed from normal. One day I would like to read Boy 21 again, because maybe by already knowing the story I would more openly embrace its conclusion.

Matthew Quick has said that one way or another all the work he has published and all the work he is contracted to publish is about mental health. His subject matter is one reason I appreciate his books. However, despite overly positive endings, the main reason I love his books is because Quick doesn't flinch at the abnormal effects grief can have on behavior. His characters deal with life's hardships in unconventional ways before eventually finding some kind of normality that they can live with. For that reason, I think Quick is one of the best authors out there when it comes to writing about the down side of life.

First Impressions: I was actually debating for a while on whether or not I wanted to read this book for a couple of reasons. First, it seemed like it is geared towards boys, which is okay, but it might affect how I rate it once I'm done reading. Second, it involves sports, something I know nothing about. Especially when it comes to basketball, I really know zip, besides that you have to try to get the ball through the hoop. However, I admire the author, Matthew Quick, and I enjoyed his previous book, Sorta Like a Rock Star, which I didn't think I would like either. So, I decided I would give Boy21 a try and see how it went.

First 50 Pages: Sometimes reading outside of your comfort zone really pays off, and in the case of this book, it did. I ended up enjoying Boy21 very much. I wasn't expecting an emotional and difficult read, but that is what I ended up with, much to my amusement. It just goes to show that you should never judge a book by its cover, or its synopsis for that matter. There was a mysterious element to this book from the beginning, with clues being dropped here and there that I didn't expect either. This wasn't a terribly long book, so the plot moved at a fairly quick pace but it gave plenty of time to get to know each of the characters.

Characters & Plot: The plot follows two main characters, Finley and Russ, as well as Finley's girlfriend, Erin, set in their senior year at Bellmont High School near Philadelphia. Both Finley and Erin play on basketball teams and have big dreams of leaving home after school is finished. This year, it's a little different for Finley, who is asked by his coach to keep a secret and help Russ, who just arrived in town, become adjusted to Bellmont and to encourage him to join the basketball team. Rumor has it that Russ is a highly sought after basketball superstar whose parents were murdered last year, and by coming to Bellmont, they hope the media won't be able to find him and make his life even more difficult.

This book deals with some very tough issues that aren't usually found in young adult books, which I of course love. Russ has PTSD, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and he essentially had created an alternative reality in order to cope with what happened to his parents. Russ doesn't speak very much and he believes he is an alien that was sent to earth to study people's emotions, while waiting for his alien parents to bring him back into space. Pretty twisted right? That is one heck of a coping mechanism. Being friends with Russ is difficult, but I loved how Finley handled everything. He doesn't really believe that Russ actually believes that he is an alien, but he doesn't look down on him either. He listens to Russ when he does speak and he genuinely tries to build a friendship with him. Things become increasingly difficult when Russ finally agrees to join the basketball team and the media finds out he is once again playing. His cover is completely blown and the consequences of that are enormous. Finley and Erin have their own dark histories to contend with as well, which makes the book all the more interesting. It's so easy to fall in love with each of these characters and you seriously cannot help hoping everything will get better for all of them. When the basketball scenes come into play, they didn't even bother me at all, which is saying a lot!

Final Thoughts: I was TOTALLY not expecting a book like this one! I can't say enough good stuff about the writing style and darker themes that were in Boy21 were just fantastic. This book is so full of emotion, clarity, and amazing characters, as well as fascinating sports scenes. I would highly recommend this book to anyone I know, even to people who aren't that into sports like myself. Two thumbs way, way up!

"No one has ever purchased and arranged a galaxy for me before."

I love Matthew Quick's books and was interested to see his take on YA.

While this was really more 3.5 stars for me at times it was still an interesting book. Unlike other stories that focus on mental illness or grief this really focuses on friendship. It's not as grueling as some of Quick's other stories in that it doesn't crush your heart but it's still full of a quirky cast and sweet insights about friendship and growing up.

I would have liked to see more character development - since this book did feel more toned down than Quick's usual work it seemed like the characters didn't fully develop in a way I appreciated but it is definitely a unique premise.

Finley McManus likes to think his first memories are of him standing in his yard shooting baskets. For him there are two things that matter in life: basketball, and his best friend and true love Erin. They live in Bellmont, a city divided between the Irish mob and the Black drug lords, a city littered with trash and graffiti, and plagued by violence and drug abuse. Both know that basketball could be their way out. Finley is the only White person on his high school basketball team, but he is such an incredible point guard that race is simply not an issue. As long as he stays in good with his teammates, he is safe at school. As long as he keeps his mouth shut, which he is very good at, he and his family stay safe in his neighborhood. As he prepares for his senior year, life is looking good and full of promise despite the desolation he faces daily at home. Then, just before the first day of school, his coach comes to call for only the second time in Finley's memory. His coach tells him about a boy who is in trouble and hurting. His name is Russell Allen and he is a basketball phenomenon, or was before his parents were brutally murdered in LA. Now, he is something other than phenomenal. He is strange. Russ refuses to pick up a basketball, demands he be called Boy21 in homage to his old basketball jersey number - which also happens to be Finley's, and talks about being from outer space. Coach was dear friends with Russell's parents, and now that Russell is coming to live with his grandparents, Coach wants Finely to be his best friend, protector, and mentor. He wants Finley to get Russell through his grief and get him back in the game. Coach says that Russell, a well-to-do Black boy from LA, and Finely, a poor Irish boy from the slums, have a lot in common. He says Finley can break though and make Russell return to himself. Finely doesn't understand Coach because there are secrets Finley keeps even from himself. But Finely always does what Coach says, even though this Russell plays Finley's position and wears his number, even though if Russell returns to himself and picks up a ball, he could end Finley's dreams. This is a good read for YAs in grades 8 and up. Both girls and boys will enjoy the read since it focuses not just on basketball but on first loves, secrets, and overcoming grief. There is some cursing, violence, and teenage sexuality, but these elements add to instead of detract from the story.

Finley lives in a broken-down town called Bellmont, filled with feisty community members battling such social ills as the Irish mob, violence and racially-motivated rivalries that play their angry game out on their streets. But it's another game, however, that makes Finley's life worth living: basketball. The one and only saving grace he has is his time on the court. At home, his dad is working nights to make ends meet, and Finley has to take care of his disabled grandfather. There is no dream that keeps him going greater than the one in which he wears his 21 jersey while winning big games. Someday he plans to leave Bellmont and go out into the big world, where things have to be better than they are now.

On the flip side, you have Russ. A basketball phenomenon who was a sure thing for the pros, his life has been knocked askew by what can only be called a tragedy. And with that one event, he is isolated from all his friends and sports associates. He no longer picks up a ball and answers only to the name Boy21 --- the number that was on the jersey he used to wear when the future was brighter and basketball was going to save him.

These two boys come together in their senior year, and never have they needed each other more. Matthew Quick seems to understand these kids inside and out and brings the anxieties and subtle insecurities of adolescent boys to the fore with a quick, witty style that will surely engage all teens. Written in first person from Finley's point of view, the reader takes a deep and compelling journey into the world inside his head as he tries to fight for his life in the world outside. There is so much written about girls' relationships with their friends at this age, but rarely has an author managed to make boys' concerns so perfectly manifested in two characters who you will think about long after you put the book down.

Sports is a great way into the story, but the real reason to stay and enjoy is the multi-layered relationships that Quick uses to show the determination and humor of the human condition. BOY21 is a great read for teen boys and girls alike; everyone will relate to the boys' trials and tribulations and how they find a way out of their problems.

Reviewed by Jana Siciliano

Taking place on the rough, gang and mob run streets of Bellmont, Pennsylvania, BOY21 centers around the reserved, dedicated Finley McManus. Finley's world is centered around basketball. His every waking moment is focused on working towards a future away from Bellmont, with his equally basketball driven girlfriend Erin. It's a future they're convinced only basketball will give them. When Russ Washington moves to Bellmont, Finley's coach forces him to befriend Russ. Russ' parents have been murdered, leading to his mental breakdown. He only answers to the name Boy21. When Finley realizes helping Russ may lead to the loss of what he holds most important, he discovers what his life is really worth living for.

I don't even know where to begin with BOY21. The short answer would be: it blew me away. This book, so quiet and internally focused within Finley, doesn't offer big action sequences or fireworks. But the quiet desperation Finley experiences, the sheer resolve he exhibits in the face of his obstacles does what the huge, explosive moments in books often don't. They left me, as the reader, wide open, exposed. I felt so drawn in to Finley's experiences that there were moments I held my breath, waiting for his reaction, or tearing up, as he struggled to do what was right.

BOY21 is largely about emotional trauma and its effect on the young psyche. Finley, who underwent a horrific experience as a child, deals with his through basketball, using the order of the routines to hold tight to control amongst the chaos. Russ is a basketball prodigy. After the death of his parents, though, he gives up basketball to become Boy 21, and believes himself to be an alien, awaiting his parents to return to Earth to take him away. He focuses on outer space; the stars, the galaxies, and uses that to maintain control over the remains of his life, and possibly keep others at a distance. Finley believes he will be the one to help Russ, if he can at all. Never realizing that Russ, although he appears to be a bit insane, may be helping him in turn.

I believe there are certain books out there that if presented to the right person at the right time, have the ability to change lives. BOY21 could be that book for teen boys. Don't get me wrong. This book could and should be enjoyed by everyone, but there is something about it that makes me want to put a copy in the hands of every boy I know. Finley is an everyman. He could be the next young man who crosses your path. He doesn't have a special paranormal ability, nor is he the guy all the girls want. But he is a hard-working, loyal, respectful and caring person who always tries to do the right thing, no matter the cost to himself. Any young man can find a piece of themselves in his character. As a parent, I can't wait for the day I'm able to put this book in my son's hands. And that, is a gift.

Favorite Quote ~

"I think I know what's best for Russell.
I think about what good friends do.
I take off my number 21 practice jersey and toss it to Boy21." (pg.115)

Finley goes into his senior year in high school knowing three things: he loves his girlfriend Erin, he plans to have a stellar year as point guard of his basketball team, and then, somehow, he will get out of the rough Philadelphia neighborhood that has worn down his father and grandfather.

But when his basketball coach asks him to befriend a troubled boy whose parents have been murdered, Finley's world is turned upside down. Russ, or Boy 21 as he wants to be called, is a basketball star who plays the same position as Finley. Also, Finley has never been friends with another boy; he's not sure he will know how to help Russ.

As Finley discovers, senior year has even more surprises in store for him, and before it's over he will revisit a troubling incident in his own childhood and question all the things he knows to be true.

Boy 21 by Matthew Quick is raw and gritty as it unflinchingly looks at life in inner-city Philadelphia, where competing mobs and drug dealers rule the streets and quiet boys need to be under someone's protection to survive. Quick gets to the heart of Finley's conflict: he is a part of the environment he grew up in, and while he longs to find a better life, he's not sure how to make that happen. He's been taught to respect authority, and he doesn't question what his coach asks him to do. But is that truly in his best interest? Finley is a team player. The question is, can he stay one and still find a way to leave the street behind.

Great for both boys and girls, Boy 21 examines issues of family, resilience, survival, and tragedy. It will grip you right up until the unexpected conclusion.

The publisher provided me with a copy of this book to review.

Set in an unsettlingly realistic world of poverty, violence, and racism, BOY21 gifts readers with the subtle magic that contemporary literature can possess.

In the city of Bellmont, where mobs covertly rule the streets and it's not safe to ask questions, Finley tries to lead a quiet existence of basketball, basketball, and more basketball along with his girlfriend, Erin, whose brother is part of the Irish mob. But the arrival of Russ shakes up Finley's life--for Russ, who is a nationally ranked high school basketball player, has been through some pretty recent trauma, and now insists on being called Boy21. Finley doesn't know how he, of all people, can help Boy21, but when terrible things befall him, Finley finds solace in this true friend.

The setting of Bellmont may be one that some readers are not familiar with, a poverty-ridden city ruled by the invisible hands of mobs. BOY21 is not a "mob story," but the presence of mobs in Bellmont does play a role in explaining characters' behaviors. Neither is BOY21 a story about race: instead, race is a conscious presence in the story, but does not dictate its plotline. This kind of refreshingly realistic and relatable take on issues such as race and poverty will, I hope, be emulated in YA to come.

But I haven't yet begun to talk about the best thing about BOY21, which is...its characters! Finley is an easy protagonist to like, despite--or perhaps because of--his reticence. We like him partly because of his harmlessness--which is what other characters think of him as well--but also because we can see the potential in him to overcome his own tragedy and find his voice. Boy21 is believable in his mannerisms and you come to feel both sympathy and regard for this extraordinary yet humble young man.

The ending feels a little bit like wish fulfillment to me, but it proved to be only a small dent in what was otherwise a satisfying reading experience. BOY21 may not be fast-paced in the way of action stories, but it's hard to put down in its own right.

Matthew Quick's books are full of heart. In fact, they heart they are full of is enormous. Here in Quick's third novel, BOY21, that big heart grows larger still. As I neared the end, I felt I was living out that seen in the Grinch when his heart grows so large that it explodes the screen meant to encompass it. I read the final quarter of the book with a lump in my throat, falling in and out of tears, until I reached the end and wept.

Quick shows a lot of compassion for his characters, who are almost always people either living on the edge of society, nearly outcast but not done yet. Same here with Finley and his family, which includes his father, his legless grandfather, and his his beloved girlfriend, Erin. Add to this family a newcomer, Russ aka Boy21.

Russ has experienced a traumatic loss in the death of his parents and has wrapped himself in a fantasy world to escape his pain, much in the same way that Finley becomes selectively mute to repress his own past traumas. The two of them are at first forced together by their basketball couch but soon learn to form a friendship which becomes something like a brotherhood. What is interesting is that they do not bond over a love of basketball or over the fact that they both experienced devastating traumas, instead they bond over their ability to survive and see beauty and hope in the world despite the ugliness all around them.

It is a beautiful, triumphant book that examines the sensitive inner-lives of boys and shows how they might become the men they are meant to be. I am going to keep this book close to my heart and when my own son faces his manhood, I will share it with him so that he might see how Finley and Russ went from being scared boys into brave young men, by facing their biggest fears and sharing their emotions.

Confession time: I love aliens. That's why I decided to pick up Boy21, yep, it's contemporary, but I was intrigued that any senior in high school, who was once pretty normal and is now claiming to be from space.

Boy21 is the sort of book that can make you cry one minute and have you laughing again shortly after. I've never read any of Matthew Quick's previous titles, but from what I gather he's known for his flawed and damaged characters. Each boy, Finley and Russ is beautifully flawed in their own way.

Finley doesn't talk much and lives in a community that's pretty dangerous. He has protection of his girlfriend's brother. Finley's coach takes him to meet Russ and asks him to befriend him and try to get him back to playing basketball. Russ quickly introduces himself as Boy21 and asks to only be called that.

There are some scenes that left me wide-eyed and kind of going "Whaaaattt?" Let's face it, the situation while horridly tragic is kind of funny. Boy21 follows Finley and Russ as they each grow during their senior year.

At times I wanted to slap Finley for the choices he makes, but I guess most are the difference between girls and boys. My heart broke for Russ, his life has been shaken to the core and it's just so sad.

Fans of male-driven contemporaries are going to love Boy21. In my opinion there aren't nearly enough of these! If you are looking for a book without a huge romantic storyline, you might want to check out Boy21. There is a bit, but the book is more focused on the friendship between the boys.

I received my copy of Boy21 in exchange for my honest opinion from the publisher.

I first learned about Matthew Quick when I picked up his earlier book, Sorta Like a Rock Star. It instantly became one of my favorites. Boy21 is, if possible, even better than Sorta Like a Rock Star. It's the story of two unlikely friends-"White Rabbit", the only white Irish boy on his school's basketball team, and wealthy Russ, who has moved to Bellmont after a tragedy took both of his parents. Russ calls himself Boy21, and insists that he is an ambassador from outer space, sent to learn about human emotions. Mix the Irish mafia, the Little Prince, stargazing, and pure hope all together, and you have this wonderful book. I love that it features basketball, but isn't *about* basketball. It's rare to find a book that will appeal equally to both male and female readers of this age group, but Matthew Quick provides. An excellent addition to any classroom library. This book reaffirms my hope in the world.

So one review said that this book works only if you like basketball. I so disagree. I have no interest in sports except maybe swimming during the Olympics-if that counts. And yet I loved this book! People miss the point if they think it's about basketball. The writer uses the game to discuss friendship, mental illness, growing up in poverty stricken communities and family bonds.The writer could have toned down on the teenage making out, but otherwise it was a riveting story.

Boy21 is a young adult novel that immerses the reader in the world of past pain and abuse, and goes about skillfully bringing a realistic recipe for hope. In a realistic world of poverty where our hero is set on playing basketball to help get himself out of his current lifestyle, he finds someone more needy than he is and finds the compassion to befriend the very person who poses a threat to everything he holds onto.

I don't want to give the story away, but I will say this: the plot was well formed, the present tense, one person point of view was well executed, and I really cared. This story made me care.

I wanted the best for these characters, I wanted the poor boy to have a better life, and I felt with him and his father and grandpa.

The story successfully transported me to a believable world with realistic events where hope could still shine in a dark and dreary world.

I really loved Forgive Me, Leonard Peacock by Matthew Quick, so HECK YEAH, I was up for another of his books. Boy21 was freakishly different and didn't connect with me because...basketball. I don't do the sport thing. Why do people always fight over a ball? SHARE IT, FOOLS. Didn't you learn that in preschool?

As long as you like basketball, this book should be awesome for you, because the writing is GREAT. Matthew Quick is the master of writing! And his characters...they're always so relatable. I get fully attached to them, honestly, I do. The narrator is Finely, and he doesn't talk much. (Quiet guys, I like that.) His girlfriend is Erin, and what's awesome is they're really in love and she's tough and kicks-butt and plays basketball better than he does. They're best friends, which is what I love to read about. Then, of course, there's "Boy21" or Russ...who's suffering from PTSD after his parents were murdered. He's a bit crazy. But you know what? He's dealing with trauma. And Finely respects that.

Basically: Finley is one of those sickeningly nice people. But he didn't ever tick me off. He's the kind of character you'd think, "I just want to be friends with that dude."

It's a very simple style. Finely's a simple guy. There's no excess description or useless scenes. VERY tight, and I love that.

What I didn't really "get" those...was all the mobster and gang things. I felt kind of cheated because no one explained it. It took me a while to work out that there's a lot of racial wars going on in this book. Finley is the only white kid on his basketball team. His grandfather was also in with Irish mobsters...whatever that means. See? It didn't really go into that. It was mental illness, then basketball and..."ohhhh, by the way there's all these conspiracy stuff going on with drug dealers and racial wars and blah blah, you'll get it". I didn't. It was almost like the book wanted to deal with too many issues, you know?

A lot of the minor characters also annoyed me. The counsellor was downright mean. Finley's school friends were kind of jerks. And about the coach? He made me infinitely angry.

It's a small book, but I found it kind of slow going. Not because the writing isn't good...just because I really am not keen on basketball. And I wanted everyone to just stow their crap and TALK to each other. Please. TALK. It was good, but I wasn't thrilled at all.

After his third novel, BOY21, Matthew Quick is 3 for 3. Like Q's other novels, BOY21 stretches the imagination to its limits without compromising the story's real-world validity. So many aspects of Boy21 left me in awe. I often found myself rereading a line over and over to soak it in. His writing style is unique and his narration incorporates just the right touch of stream of consciousness, allowing readers to feel as though they're actually living the story. Q appeals to all walks of life, and besides developing plots that are very pertinent to today's America, his stories resonate with universal and timeless truths.
With its unique blend of themes, BOY21 depicts the reality of urban America and delves into the good, the bad, and the ugly, but leaves readers with hope and a special appreciation for the natural world around us. More importantly, Q illuminates complexities that provide key insights to interpersonal and group relationships, especially for young readers. Mental health, family, and friendship are a few particular areas that he explores with incredible honesty and creativity. Teens or adults, readers will be refreshed to learn that Q is passionate and writes with a purpose, and that they can expect Q to continue delivering exceptional work.

I finished reading this book last week. I think its mixture of sport, drama and romantic. I really like it because of two reasons. First, it talked about white boy and black boy became friends. Also, the white boy lived around black neighbors. As a result, the book gives indirectly message that there are no differences between black and white. Second, this book has a good story about helping and friendship. The white and black boys help each other to make their life better.

To start off I am a 13 year old boy. I personally loved this book. It incorporated sports into a realistic fiction book with a bit of romance. This book is about a senior in high school who plays basketball to get away from life. He has played basketball with his girlfriend for as long as he can remember. She is the best player on her team and the only white player as is he. In the off season they practice and practice and practice but during basketball season they "break up" for a period of time so that they can focus on basketball with no distractions. This all goes smoothly until Coach asks Finley (the main character) to help him with something very important task with a kid that calls himself Boy21. Finley is asked to be his friend and coax him into playing b-ball and when Boy21 does he's a star! Everyone loves him and they almost win State. But all of a sudden something tragic happens and Finley doesn't want to play basketball, doesn't have a girlfriend and loses friendships.
Bazinga!!

BOY21 is mostly a story about a unique friendship between two boys. Finley doesn't disappoint when coach asks him to befriend BOY21 and make him feel at home in his gang-ridden town, despite the fact that BOY21 is a potential threat to Finley's starting point guard position on the school basketball team. Finley agrees because he's a good kid, and because he feels bad for the tragedy BOY21's left behind. But little does Finley know, BOY21 will help him heal from events he's shut out of his own memory as well.
Matthew Quick has no doubt risen to the rank of my favorite author. This fast-paced read will have you asking, "Is that kid for real?" while also watching a powerful friendship of two boys, who barely speak, unfold. It's a read as unique as the cosmos above!

"Boy 21" by Matthew Quick is a teen romance involving friendship, basketball, poverty and the Irish mob. It delves into deep issues like dealing with grief, love of family and love. I was surprised at how good this story was, the ending brought tears to my eyes. It's a very moving story and shows how life can be so unpredictable. It was heartbreaking when Finley turned his back on basketball to be with his girlfriend at the hospital who was in a hit-and-run accident only to be told she didn't want to see him. In an unexpected turn, the boy Finley was asked to help wound up being a good friend to Finley. I enjoyed this quick read about a teen boy with good character.

This was a good book but probably the weakest of the Matthew Quick novels. It's the story of Finley, a white boy who meets a wealthy black kid named Russ who calls himself Boy21. He is transferred to his high school because his parents tragically are murdered. As a result, he says he is from outer space. Boy21 is a phenomenal basketball player so part of the book is devoted to his prowess on the courts.

I highly recommend this novel!

Finley's coach has asked him to befriend the new kid. Russ's parents were recently murdered, and he is moving in with his grandparents. Although he has always been told to do what adults request, Russ is different. He believes his real name is Boy21 and his parents will be returning from outer space for him. Also, he is a basketball star who may take Finley's spot on the team. The book is hard to place in one genre. It is definitely realistic fiction, yet there is a lot of sports and urban issues. This is one of those books that needs the Rosie list. It needs to be promoted with readers.

This book was one that I put off reading because I am not into basketball or space for that matter. I am glad I did read it because it was such a nice surprise. The author did a fantastic job helping me care about his characters and I was pulling for each and every one of them. You dont have to be a boy, or into space to get this book. It's one that all kids will be able to relate to in some way. I will definitely read more of Matthew Quicks writing after having enjoyed this one so much. It's hard to find books that portray humanity well, and especially hard to find young adult books that do this well. This one hit the mark.

Matt Quick has done it again! "Boy 21" is another outstanding novel that will stay with you long after you are finished. The characters tear at your heart and leave you emotionally exhausted. It is one of those books that you can't put aside, and so you find yourself reading in the least likely of spots. "Please I need to find out what happens to these characters, but don't let them leave me!" My only regret is that I won't be there with the young adults that experience this novel...to hear their comments and thoughts on the lives of Finley, Erin, and Russell. If I had the $$$ I would buy a case of Quick's third novel and pass them out on street corners just so readers wouldn't miss the opportunity to experience "Boy 21".

This book is kinda like an awesome, non-sucky version of KPax. I read this book a while back and forgot to write a review for it. Then I realized it was coming out soon (or now has) and HAD to bang out some positive press for it.

I wasn't sure about this book when I first picked it up, it had a disconcerting cover and mentioned basketball. Yes, I know. I am the lamest lame in Lamesville for judging a book on those two things, but I read and loved it afterwards, so who cares now, eh?

This book was SO MUCH MORE than I was expecting. It starts off with the utter intrigue of KPax-ian Boy21's history, and blends into more about the main character Finley's coming into and surviving his own less-than-perfect life. Together, they are forced to cope with their horrible pasts and deal with their futures. This book paints an incredibly gritty and realistic portrait of the world we live in. Oh, and there's the Irish mafia. Which is both cool and terrifying and should be present in more books.

Now I am going to dedicate and entire paragraph to something I cannot expressly say. Why? Cause it's a giant spoiler. But there are so few times when something happens in a book and then there is THE PERFECT REACTION. One where the main character reacts exactly how you want them too, the other characters do exactly what you want them to do and it's so perfect and poetic and brilliant it's like it was divined by the gods. This book had that. Without saying anything, I was reading, said plot twist happened, then there was some much needed waiting and then... PERFECT MOMENT and I screamed `YES' like some kind of hyped up adrenaline junkie. *angels sing, trumpets sound* Brilliant. Brilliant. Brilliant.

I wouldn't call this book a "hard contemporary" exactly, but I wouldn't call it light either. It's just very honest and blunt, but marvelous. Sadly, there is no sequel (no really, I'd LOVE a sequel for this), but I will certainly be checking out more of Matthew Quick's work. And on a very final note, if NONE OF THIS has convinced you, I will use this tidbit of information. Not only does Finley and his friends read Harry Potter, but there are several references and allusions to Harry Potter. Awesome.

Wow! BOY21 is easily my favorite novel of the year thus far! The author has a way of telling a quirky story that is steeped in heart and brimming with honesty. The story's message spoke to me so directly that I still feel myself drifting back to the tale of Finley and his friends time and time again. With unique characters that you can reach out and touch and a story that grabs you from word one, I would recommend BOY21 to just about anybody that just loves a great read. Seriously, BUY THIS BOOK! I promise you won't regret it!

"Boy21" by Mathew Quick is a great book about over coming issues in your life, and helping others overcome theirs. The main character, known as White Rabbit, is told by his coach of his basketball team to treat a new kid in school well.The coach knew the kids parents very well, and wants him to have a fresh start in his new school. Except, this new kid is very peculiar. He likes to go by the name of boy 21. He also claims that he is from outer space, and is pretty socially awkward. This, in turn, makes White Rabbit socially awkward as well. This new kid is also getting in the way of his basketball, and his best friend Erin. I do recommend this book for young adults, or anyone who wants to read an engaging, interesting book. I know that this book entertains readers of all ages, because my grandmother had read it while I was visiting her. She is 83, and said that she would read it again.

Love this book. Got it for my 11 yr old son to take a test on at school. We both loved the book and he got an awesome grade when he tested for it. I read it to him since there were a few bad word in there and a few things about making out, but was an awesome book and actually got emotional while reading it which has never happened for me while reading a book. Loved it!!

You're looking at Boy21 for one of two reasons: 1) You're already a fan of writer Matthew Quick, who in his previous two novels so deftly explored the internal geography of unique, fascinating characters, and want to see if his latest effort matches up. 2) You read Matt de la Pena's GLOWING NYT Book Review and need further proof of his assessment. In either case: you made the right decision, and now you're SO CLOSE TO THE FINISH LINE.

You can learn all about Boy21's plot above. (It's good!) More significant though -- and another reviewer, Evan James Roskos, discusses it very eloquently nearby -- is its voice. Main character Finley is far from the most verbose kid you'll ever meet, but from page one you'll feel like you know him. Intimately. Quick nails the particular quiet of a shy, hard-working basketball player who just wants to do right by his coach and team and girlfriend. And in that relative silence, we're given everything. No word feels out of place, but carefully considered -- both by Quick and Finley -- to paint this lively, heartbreaking story.

Just like in The Silver Linings Playbook, the world is richly detailed. It's no Wire, exactly, but you'll feel not 20 pages in that you know the town of Bellmont: its customs, its history, the kinds of people you're likely to meet there. Quick never sidesteps from his two leads or their specific story, but you can feel an entire world encroaching just outside. The division is handled with tremendous subtlety and craft. And the basketball? If you don't love the game, DON'T WORRY -- it's used here the same way football was in TSLP (or Friday Night Lights, the television show): as a grounding narrative force and extension of character. And if you DO love it, Quick offers well-observed, authentic sports action. But you'll be so busy soaking up great emotional moments to notice.

Quick's is a true talent that only grows with each new novel (whether "adult," "YA," or in-between) and you'll appreciate his continued examination of themes that began four years ago with TSLP. Thoughtful and probing, he cares deeply about his characters and the lives they lead. There's no way you won't do the same. Buy it!

Ever since reading The Silver Linings Playbook, which moved me to tears, I have been a great fan of Quick's fiction. His big-hearted stories work, I think, because of their authenticity. You get the feeling he really knows the milieus he writes about, and the people who inhabit them. Quick's first-person narrators are alienated but immensely loveable. I cared about Finlay and "Boy 21" from page one. I won't of course reveal the big twist at the end, but it caught me completely off-guard. In a good way. I am not a sports fan but I learned from Playbook that you don't need to be: sport is a vehicle for the action that becomes a metaphor for much more.
Although Boy 21 is a Young Adult book, as far as this Older Adult is concerned, it needn't be pigeonholed that way. I have a feeling this writer is going to be huge. And if there's any justice in the world, he will be.

I simply love this book! Even though it has been published as a young adult novel, it offers something for every reader. I love how Matthew Quick takes his characters through a tragic event but by the time the journey is over, each character finds hope. Q has such a talent for putting words on the page that bring back the most nostalgic moments of my childhood. Finley, Erin, and Russ are really cool characters that offer so much to the reader. If you are a fan of John Green, Walter Dean Myers, and/or Jay Asher, you should grab BOY21 and get to know Matthew Quick's characters.

This is a gem of a book.
Matthew Quick crosses, once again, ALL barriers of age, gender, ethnicity, "society", and economics.

"Boy21" is a quantum treasure chest. Every chapter opens up yet another chest filled with gems and gifts....
Pearls of Wisdom....Jades of Awareness...Shooting Stars of Joy....

The story itself is amazing....and in the grittiness of its "real" outer world...Boy21 gives us answers and even more questions with its inner world....

So Much is said in few words.......

It leads to moments of opening ourself to our knowing and, also, to more than we already know.

Matthew Quick shares the world of young-adult with the universe...
and we All can relate to this world...
remember those/these days of knowing and not knowing at the same time,
of uncertainty and certainty,
and just taking the steps we do ?????

!!!!!!!! this is....ANOTHER "Q" BOOK ....for ALL OF US to READ !!!!!!!!

BOY21 is a great read by a very talented writer. You don't have to have read any of Matthew Quick's other books (although you should!), or even be a Young Adult, to enjoy it. Quick will draw you into the world of Bellmont, of Finley, Erin, and the mysterious BOY21, and keep you turning the pages all the way to the end. Quick's story of basketball, outer space, friendship, and hope in the face of tragedy will have you rooting for these characters. Maybe the greatest thing about this book is that it can help younger readers to feel less alone in the world, and even empower them to stand up and overcome their own obstacles in life, just as Finley and his friends do. But as I said, it is a wonderful read for adults as well. Buy it and share with friends!

I just finished reading BOY21 and loved every page of it. Mr. Quick has brought us compelling characters in a very touching and compelling story that is both heartbreaking and,ultimately, hopeful. I heartily recommend this to readers of all ages. Having read Mr.Quick's other novels I must recommend them as well as he is an author who really knows how to tell a story that you won't soon forget.

This is another fantastic novel by Matthew Quick. He is a writer who really understands the need for human connection, and he articulates it artistically. Quick excels at creating rich characters that have to navigate real-life challenges and make hard choices, like Finley, the narrator of BOY21. The novel also explores issues that transcend the interests of young adults.

What a great read! Even if you haven't been in high school for some time this book will transport you there. The imagery, emotions and characters are spot on. Quick's books are always character driven stories which I love and Boy21 doesn't disappoint. I couldn't put this one down and wish I could follow these characters further into their journey.

Review based on 2 high school aged children's opinion. The book arrived on time and as described, so 5 stars for that. This was required reading for my kids' high school -- everyone reads the same book. Neither of my girls were interested in it. I have one avid reader and 1 far-from-avid reader. I leafed through the book, and it seemed like a good read, but they were not impressed.

This book will transport you back to your youth and your teenage brain - it captures that complex world of thoughts and conflicts so well! I could not put it down - and the ending moved me to tears - buy it and read it, you won't regret it!

Fanatastic! A riveting and exciting novel with well developed characters that crawl into your heart. Boy 21 has it all ~ friendship, conflict, romance, family, loss, poverty and hope. Q is a master! I couldn't put this book down! I can not wait to share it with my high school students as a class read. Read this book!!!!!!

Boy21 is an awesome read for anyone who wants to see the real definition of friendship. You travel with the main characters Finely as he discovers himself, what real friendship is, and what it means to love unconditionally. You will pulled right into the novel and will not be able to put it down till you finish it. I recommend that everyone read it!

As a high school teacher, I love Matthew Quick's novels - they are always poignant and emotional, perfect for young adults. Boy21 is no exception. I read this book in 2 days - I just couldn't put it down. The main character, Finley, is heartbreakingly real, and the plot has twists and turns I never saw coming. Keep writing, Q! I'll be eagerly reading!

This is a strong book. Great characters and a heartfelt storyline that pulls you in to the heart of the action. I love the style, appealing to boys which is great.
I thought the story was thoughtful and would recommend it.

BOY21 is definitely another "I must read this book!" from Matt Quick. These characters instruct, entertain, and definitely enrich. This is true of all of his books. Matt writes from his heart. I am always touched; and I inevitably know myself - and the world - a little bit better by the time I lay his book down. Congratulations Matt!!

I read this book and didn't like it after I finished it. This is because the ending of the story was awful and ruined the story completely. I imagined that the ending for this book would talk about Finley and that he would play with his team, but instead he went with his girlfriend Erin to escape the city. He left his friends behind because he chose to go with his girlfriend over them, which I thought was disappointing. The title of the book talks about Boy 21, but if you read this book, most of the story is about family. There was too much drama in my opinion, and it made it hard to stay interested in the story. When I first started reading the book I liked the story, but when I was around half way through the book that's when I lost interest but had to keep reading because my teacher in the English class gave me quizzes for this novel. If it weren't for the quizzes I would have stopped reading.