The First Part Last
Simon and Schuster 2010
Easy read — content targets 9th–12th grade
Reading level 4.6 (4th grade) but themes aimed at ages 14+
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Genre
Themes
- teen parenthood
- responsibility
- family
- love
- choices and consequences
- identity
- sacrifice
- coming of age
About this book
Bobby is a New York City teen whose life changes when his girlfriend becomes pregnant. Told in brief, powerful chapters that move between then and now, the story explores what it really means to grow up fast and put someone else first. With honest voice and a strong sense of place, it speaks to teens about responsibility, love, and hard choices without preaching. A great pick for mature readers who like realistic fiction and shorter, accessible novels.
Setting: contemporary urban New York City
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The First Part Last right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for The First Part Last. The reading level is AR 4.6, which is typical for 4th grade. The interest level is rated Upper Grades (9–12), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 14+ (9th–12th grade). Themes include teen parenthood, responsibility, family.
How long does it take to read The First Part Last?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, The First Part Last takes around 2.2h to finish. The book has 20,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does The First Part Last have an AR quiz?
Yes — The First Part Last has an AR quiz available, worth 3 points. Your child will need to take and pass the quiz through their school's Accelerated Reader program to earn credit. The quiz is typically 5–20 multiple choice questions about plot, characters, and setting.
What grade level is The First Part Last?
The First Part Last has an AR reading level of 4.6, which places it at a 4th grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Upper Grades (9–12) — this reflects the age-appropriateness of the content and themes, not just the reading difficulty. A strong younger reader may handle the words fine while the themes are aimed at an older audience, or vice versa.