Boy's Life
Boy's Life
Book Brief
625
Novel • Fiction
Zephyr, Alabama • 1960s
1991
Adult
14-18 years
780L
Super Short Summary
Set in the 1960s in Zephyr, Alabama, Robert R. McCammon's award-winning novel Boy's Life follows eleven-year-old Cory Mackenson as he navigates a year of adventure and mystery while attempting to solve a murder that his father witnessed. Against the backdrop of significant social changes and the Civil Rights Movement, Cory balances school, friendships, and investigating the haunting crime, which leads him into various perilous situations. This novel contains violence and themes of racial tension.
Nostalgic
Fantastical
Mysterious
Emotional
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
43,523 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Robert McCammon's Boy's Life is widely praised for its evocative storytelling, rich character development, and vivid depiction of 1960s small-town America. The blend of mystery, fantasy, and coming-of-age themes resonates strongly with readers. Some critics, however, note its lengthy narrative and occasional pacing issues. Overall, it's considered a compelling and nostalgic read.
Who Should Read Boy's Life?
Readers who enjoy coming-of-age stories with a blend of mystery and supernatural elements, similar to Stephen King’s It and Ray Bradbury’s Something Wicked This Way Comes, will be captivated by Robert McCammon’s Boy’s Life. This novel offers rich, nostalgic storytelling and delves deep into the enchantment and trials of youth.
43,523 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Boy's Life won the 1991 Bram Stoker Award for Best Novel, showcasing its critical acclaim in the horror and fantasy genres.
The book is often regarded as a rich coming-of-age tale, drawing comparisons to works like To Kill a Mockingbird for its exploration of childhood and moral themes.
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Robert McCammon's writing in Boy's Life is praised for its vivid depiction of small-town life in the American South during the 1960s, blending nostalgia with supernatural elements.
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625
Novel • Fiction
Zephyr, Alabama • 1960s
1991
Adult
14-18 years
780L
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