53 pages 1 hour read

The One-In-A-Million Boy

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2016

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Book Brief

Monica Wood

The One-In-A-Million Boy

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2016
Book Details
Pages

336

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Realistic Fiction

Literary Fiction
Setting

Portland, Maine • Contemporary

Theme
Family

Friendship

Gratitude
Publication Year

2016

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The One-In-A-Million Boy by Monica Wood is a novel about a unique friendship between a young boy and a 104-year-old woman. The boy, with a fascination for world records, helps the woman pursue her dream of becoming the oldest person to earn a specific Guinness World Record, transforming their lives through shared experiences and understanding.

Heartwarming

Bittersweet

Inspirational

Emotional

Humorous

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

The One-In-A-Million Boy by Monica Wood receives praise for its heartwarming exploration of unlikely friendships and emotional depth. Critics commend Wood's character development and the touching portrayal of loss and healing. However, some mention a slow narrative pace. Overall, it’s a charming and poignant tale that resonates with readers.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The One-In-A-Million Boy?

Readers who enjoyed A Man Called Ove or The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry would appreciate The One-In-A-Million Boy. This novel appeals to those who cherish heartwarming stories of unexpected friendships, redemption, and the beauty of intergenerational bonds. Ideal for fans of character-driven narratives with emotional depth.

Character List

A fiercely independent, elderly Lithuanian American woman who becomes the center of a young Boy Scout's incomplete mission, leading her to confront her past and reengage with life.

The boy's father and a musician grappling with guilt and loss, whose visits to Ona out of obligation evolve into a life-changing friendship that helps him grow and mature.

The boy's mother and Quinn's ex-wife, deeply affected by her son's death, whose sorrow and blame directed at Quinn bring about changes in her life trajectory and relationships.

An unnamed young Boy Scout with a passion for Guinness World Records, whose unique mannerisms and kindness leave a lasting impact on those around him despite his untimely death.

A deeply significant figure in Ona's past, representing companionship and joy, whose memory continues to influence Ona after their time together.

Book Details
Pages

336

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Realistic Fiction

Literary Fiction
Setting

Portland, Maine • Contemporary

Theme
Family

Friendship

Gratitude
Publication Year

2016

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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