Upper middle grade perfection. This book fits perfectly in that slot of readers that the publishing industry usually ignores: getting old for middle grade, not yet ready for YA. This is the rare, magic book that will appeal to the entire range of 6-8th grade middle schoolers. Karthik is a 14 year old approaching his 9th grade year amid the 2009 recession. He is spending the summer reluctantly making bike deliveries around Boston for his dad's struggling Indian grocery store. One of the customers he delivers to is a playwrighting grad student who thinks Karthik would be perfect to star as a young Leonard Bernstein in her play. Karthik manages to keep this new experience a secret from his parents, all while working, maintaining friendships, and getting to know his secret crush. As readers we go along for his ride exploring Boston, learning about Leonard Bernstein, and watching Karthik's passions and identity develop as he learns to stand up for himself. 

This book was a joy to read. Something about it felt like watching a great indie movie. Karthik himself is such a loveable, real character who is working through struggles that are so acute at his age. The same goes for his friends, sister, and crush, who is not without her very relatable flaws. I found the writing to be poignant but with a light touch, and the story of Leonard Bernstein was the perfect backdrop and analogy for Karthik to explore his own experiences. The setting and time period were significant and provided depth to the story, particularly in Karthik's relationship with his family. The ending was executed perfectly and will appeal to middle school readers. One of my favorites of the year.