My Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.5)
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My Review
The First State of Being is an adventurous and thoughtful middle-grade novel set in August 1999, a time when fears about the Y2K crisis loom large. The story centers around 12-year-old Michael Rosario, who struggles with anxieties that go beyond just Y2K. From worrying about the millennium bug to feeling guilty over his mother’s workload, Michael carries a heavy need for control and security. Additionally, he feels burdened by insecurities about his appearance, a sense of isolation, and doubts about facing the future.
Michael’s Journey with Friendship, Time Travel, and Living in the Present
However, Michael’s life takes an unexpected turn when he meets Ridge, a teenager from the year 2199 who has traveled back in time. Ridge’s futuristic insights, quirky misunderstandings of 1999 culture, and curiosity about Michael’s world lead to a powerful friendship. Together, they help Michael question his obsession with planning for worst-case scenarios. Through Ridge’s advice, as well as support from his babysitter Gibby and his neighbor Mr. Mosley, Michael learns the concept of “the first state of being.” This lesson encourages him to live in the present rather than feeling overwhelmed by what might happen.
Why The First State of Being is a Must-Read
Overall, The First State of Being combines adventure and introspection in a way that makes it a valuable read. Michael’s insecurities—whether about his appearance, his guilt over his mother’s struggles, or his fears about the future—are relatable challenges that many young readers face. As he grows from fear to resilience, his journey feels both authentic and empowering, especially for kids who may feel the weight of the future pressing on them. Moreover, the characters add warmth and depth to the story, from the wise Mr. Mosley to the humorous, insightful Ridge, making it both relatable and engaging
I highly recommend The First State of Being for families, educators, and young readers alike. The 1999 setting offers nostalgic fun for adults while also sparking curiosity in kids interested in this “retro” period. Furthermore, the novel encourages valuable discussions about handling fears, the importance of friendships, and the power of being present. With its mix of humor, adventure, and heartfelt moments, The First State of Being is a 4.5-star read that resonates on multiple levels and leaves readers feeling hopeful and connected.
The First State of Being: Discussion Questions
1. What do the sumbook and the money jar represent in Michael’s life, and how do they offer contrasting approaches to facing an unpredictable future? What might Michael learn from each?
2. How might living in the present, as suggested in The First State of Being, shape one’s outlook on life? If you were advising Michael on focusing on the present, what philosophical perspective could help him balance his fears about the future?
3. What ethical considerations about knowledge and responsibility does Ridge face when deciding how much future information to share with Michael and Gibby? If you were in Ridge’s position, what limits would you set and why?
4. Consider the RIDGE document and its role in the novel. How does it explore the tension between fate and free will, and what implications does this have for understanding the characters’ decisions and actions throughout the story?
5. Ridge’s unintended influence on the past helps set the stage for his own existence, revealing the complex consequences of time travel. What might Ridge learn about the lasting impact of his actions, and how could this realization shape his approach to future decisions?
Want the Answers?
To make it easy for you to dive deeper into The First State of Being with your readers, I’ve created a free PDF download that includes all the discussion questions along with their answers. This convenient resource is perfect for sparking thoughtful conversations, whether you’re reading together as a family, in a homeschool setting, or with a book club. Just download, print, and enjoy!
Click Here For The Free PDF
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