The Field Guide to the North American Teenager⁚ A Review
The Field Guide to the North American Teenager is a young adult novel by Ben Philippe, published January 8, 2019 by Balzer Bray. The book follows Norris Kaplan, a Black French Canadian teenager who moves to Austin, Texas, after his parents’ divorce. Norris is a witty and cynical observer of the American teen culture, and the novel explores themes of identity, belonging, and finding your place in the world; The novel was well-received by critics, including starred reviews from School Library Journal, who called the novel a witty and insightful look at the challenges of adolescence.
Introduction
Ben Philippe’s debut novel, “The Field Guide to the North American Teenager,” is a hilarious and insightful coming-of-age story that captures the awkwardness and anxieties of adolescence with refreshing honesty. The novel follows Norris Kaplan, a Black French Canadian teenager who finds himself transplanted to the bustling, often bewildering world of Austin, Texas, after his parents’ divorce. Norris, armed with his sharp wit and cynical observations, embarks on a journey of self-discovery as he navigates the unfamiliar landscape of American high school culture.
Philippe’s novel is a witty and relatable exploration of what it means to be an outsider, grappling with cultural differences, navigating the complexities of friendship and romance, and ultimately, finding your place in the world. With its sharp humor, authentic characters, and heartwarming moments, “The Field Guide to the North American Teenager” offers a fresh perspective on the universal experiences of adolescence, making it a compelling and enjoyable read for young adults and adults alike.
Plot Summary
The novel opens with Norris Kaplan, a 16-year-old Black French Canadian, adjusting to life in Austin, Texas, after his parents’ divorce. He’s initially overwhelmed by the cultural differences and the sheer size of his new high school. To cope, Norris creates a “field guide” – a running commentary of sorts – filled with observations and judgments about his classmates, teachers, and the American teenage experience in general. He encounters various characters, from the popular clique to the awkward and introverted, navigating the complexities of high school life.
As Norris settles into his new environment, he begins to forge unexpected friendships, including with a group of fellow outsiders who share his outsider status. He experiences the highs and lows of teenage romance, facing rejection and discovering the complexities of attraction. Through his interactions with these individuals, Norris learns about acceptance, tolerance, and the importance of finding his own voice amidst the pressures of fitting in. The novel culminates in a heartwarming and relatable resolution, showcasing Norris’s personal growth and his newfound understanding of both himself and the world around him.
Norris Kaplan⁚ The Protagonist
Norris Kaplan, the novel’s protagonist, is a complex and relatable teenager navigating the challenges of adolescence. He’s a sharp and cynical observer, armed with a biting wit and a unique perspective on the world. As a Black French Canadian, Norris finds himself an outsider in both his new Texan environment and his former Canadian home, wrestling with his identity and finding his place in a world that often feels like it doesn’t quite understand him. He’s grappling with the fallout of his parents’ divorce, feeling displaced and uncertain about his future.
Despite his cynical exterior, Norris possesses a kind heart and a genuine desire for connection. He struggles with social anxiety and finds solace in his observations, often using humor as a coping mechanism. As the story progresses, Norris learns to embrace his vulnerabilities and to open himself up to genuine relationships. He discovers that belonging isn’t about conforming to societal expectations but about finding people who accept him for who he truly is. Norris’ journey is a testament to the resilience and growth potential that lies within every teenager, even those who might initially seem cynical or withdrawn.
Themes Explored
The Field Guide to the North American Teenager delves into the complexities of adolescence, exploring themes that resonate deeply with young readers. At its core, the novel tackles the universal struggle of identity formation. Norris, grappling with his biracial heritage and the cultural differences between Canada and Texas, embodies the confusion and uncertainty that many teenagers experience as they try to define themselves. He questions his place in the world, seeking to understand who he is and where he belongs.
The novel also explores the power of friendship and belonging. Norris navigates the social landscape of high school, encountering both genuine connections and superficial friendships. He learns the importance of finding people who accept him for who he is, flaws and all. The story emphasizes the significance of authenticity and the transformative power of genuine relationships in navigating the tumultuous waters of adolescence. Ultimately, The Field Guide to the North American Teenager offers a heartwarming exploration of self-discovery, friendship, and the resilience of the human spirit, leaving readers with a sense of hope and understanding.
Writing Style and Tone
Ben Philippe’s writing style in The Field Guide to the North American Teenager is characterized by its sharp wit and engaging voice. The novel is written in first person, allowing readers to experience the world through Norris’s cynical and often humorous perspective. His voice is both relatable and refreshing, capturing the awkwardness and self-awareness of a teenager navigating a new and often confusing environment. Philippe masterfully blends humor with poignant observations about the complexities of adolescence, creating a narrative that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
The tone of the novel is lighthearted and conversational, reflecting the way teenagers communicate with each other. Philippe avoids overly sentimental language or dramatic pronouncements, opting instead for a realistic and often humorous portrayal of the teenage experience. The novel’s dialogue is particularly noteworthy, capturing the slang and colloquialisms of contemporary teenagers with authenticity and humor. This stylistic choice contributes to the novel’s accessibility and appeal to young readers, making it a relatable and engaging read for anyone who has ever felt like an outsider trying to find their place in the world.
Reception and Awards
The Field Guide to the North American Teenager garnered widespread praise upon its release, solidifying its position as a standout contemporary YA novel. Critics lauded the book for its sharp wit, insightful observations about adolescence, and authentic portrayal of a diverse cast of characters. The novel earned starred reviews from publications like School Library Journal, which praised its “witty and insightful look at the challenges of adolescence,” and Kirkus Reviews, which called it “a smart, funny, and ultimately heartwarming coming-of-age story.”
The novel’s success was further cemented by its recognition in prestigious awards. In 2020, it received the prestigious William C. Morris YA Debut Award, recognizing its exceptional quality and originality. The award is presented annually to a first-time author whose debut novel demonstrates outstanding talent and promise. This recognition solidified Philippe’s place as a rising star in the YA literary world. The Field Guide to the North American Teenager was also nominated for the 2022 Lincoln Award, a testament to its lasting impact and enduring appeal among readers and critics alike.
Target Audience
The Field Guide to the North American Teenager is primarily aimed at young adult readers, particularly those navigating the complexities of high school and the challenges of adolescence. The novel’s relatable characters, witty dialogue, and exploration of universal themes such as identity, belonging, and self-discovery resonate deeply with teenagers. While the book is primarily intended for young adults, its humor and insightful observations make it enjoyable for readers of all ages.
The novel’s exploration of themes like cultural differences, navigating new environments, and the pressures of fitting in makes it particularly relevant to teenagers who are experiencing similar challenges in their own lives. The book’s depiction of a diverse cast of characters from various backgrounds further adds to its appeal for a wide range of young readers. The Field Guide to the North American Teenager is a book that can be enjoyed by anyone who has ever felt like an outsider or struggled to find their place in the world.
The Field Guide to the North American Teenager offers a humorous and insightful look into the lives of teenagers, exploring the complexities of adolescence with wit and authenticity. Ben Philippe’s debut novel successfully captures the anxieties, joys, and awkwardness of navigating high school and finding your place in the world. The novel’s relatable characters, witty dialogue, and exploration of universal themes resonate with readers, making it a compelling and enjoyable read.
Through Norris Kaplan’s journey, the novel highlights the importance of embracing individuality, finding your voice, and challenging stereotypes. It encourages readers to embrace their differences, celebrate their unique perspectives, and find strength in their own identities. The Field Guide to the North American Teenager is a reminder that adolescence is a time of discovery, growth, and finding your own way in the world, and that even in the midst of challenges, laughter, friendship, and self-acceptance can help us navigate the journey.
Final Thoughts
The Field Guide to the North American Teenager is a refreshing and engaging read that offers a humorous and insightful perspective on the challenges and triumphs of adolescence. Ben Philippe’s debut novel is a witty and relatable exploration of identity, belonging, and navigating the complexities of high school life. The novel’s strength lies in its ability to authentically capture the voice and experiences of teenagers, making it a relatable and enjoyable read for young adults and adults alike.
The novel’s themes of cultural differences, self-discovery, and finding your place in the world resonate with readers, leaving them with a sense of hope and understanding. Philippe’s writing style is engaging and witty, drawing readers into the story and making them laugh and relate to Norris Kaplan’s experiences. Whether you’re a teenager yourself or simply looking for a lighthearted and insightful read, The Field Guide to the North American Teenager is a worthwhile and enjoyable choice.