The First State of Being

Set in August 1999, The First State of Being follows twelve-year-old Michael Rosario, a boy navigating life at Fox Run Apartments in Delaware. Anxious about Y2K and his crush on babysitter Gibby, Michael’s world shifts when Ridge, a mysterious teen claiming to be from the future, appears. Ridge’s arrival sparks curiosity and chaos as Michael learns his new friend is humanity’s first time traveler. Armed with a book predicting future events, Michael grapples with the temptation to control what’s ahead, while Ridge struggles with the ethics of altering the past.

Erin Entrada Kelly weaves a heartfelt story about embracing the present—”the first state of being”—amid fears of the unknown. Michael’s journey explores trust, forgiveness, and the bonds of found family, set against the backdrop of late-’90s nostalgia. Kelly’s signature character depth shines as Michael evolves from anxiety-driven to courageous, guided by Ridge’s free-spirited wisdom. The novel balances sci-fi intrigue with timeless themes, earning accolades like the 2025 Newbery Medal and a 2024 National Book Award finalist nod.

A standout middle-grade read, the book blends humor, heartache, and hope. Ridge’s fascination with ’90s culture—microwaves, malls, and basketball—adds levity, while Michael’s relationship with his single mother underscores emotional resilience. Kelly’s prose captures the awkwardness and wonder of adolescence, making it relatable for modern readers. The epilogue leaves a lingering question about time’s fragility, inviting reflection on how small moments shape destiny.