Boy's Life

Fantastic story of one year in the life of a 12-year-old boy. It's touching, exciting, scary, and funny. It reminded me quite a bit of Dandelion Wine by Ray Bradbury.

There are elements that are realistic, like bullies in the schoolyard, family money troubles, and racial tension. Then there are the elements that are way out there, prehistoric creatures, vengeful monkeys, spiritual powers, etc. There's also the overall theme of a town that is on the cusp of the changing society in America in the 1960s. McCammon does a great job of combining these elements with warmth and humor as well as keeping the reader on the edge of their seat.

Sometimes the fantasy elements are a little over the top and in a way that breaks the spell of immersion a bit. But I liked it so much I certainly wouldn't dock a star for that.