Book details
He Forgot to Say Goodbye
Description
A heartfelt novel from the award-winning author of Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe. On the surface, Ramiro Lopez and Jake Upthegrove couldn't live more different lives. Ram is Mexican-American, lives in the poor section of town and is doing his best to keep his mother sane while his brother fights off a drug-induced coma. Jake is a WASP who drives a nice car, lives in a mansion and has a mother who drinks a bit too much and a step-father who cheats on her. But there is one point, one issue, where their lives are exactly the same; their fathers walked out on them when they were just young boys. And at this convergence, Ram and Jake see how everything in their lives is just a little bit similar, because they both blame everything that goes wrong on the one thing they actually have in common.
Age
11-12
Text complexity
beginner
Length
321 pages
Why to read
- Exploration of Identity: 'He Forgot to Say Goodbye' delves into the complex issues of identity, race, and family dynamics, providing readers with a nuanced perspective on the struggles of growing up between two cultures.
- Emotional Resonance: Benjamin Alire Sáenz is known for his ability to evoke strong emotions through his writing. This book offers a heartfelt exploration of friendship, loss, and the search for belonging that will resonate with many readers.
- Cultural Representation: The novel provides a window into the lives of two young men from different backgrounds—one Mexican-American and the other African-American—offering valuable representation and insights into diverse cultural experiences.
- Award-Winning Author: Benjamin Alire Sáenz is an acclaimed author who has received numerous awards for his work. Reading 'He Forgot to Say Goodbye' gives readers the opportunity to experience the storytelling of a masterful writer who addresses important themes with sensitivity and depth.