Five, Six, Seven, NATE! by Tim Federle

     Tim Federle follows Better Nate Than Ever with another awe-inspiring story from the heart. Nate's journey in New York continues and takes turns so exciting and sharp you had best wear your seat belt.

     In Five, Six, Seven, NATE!, Nate Foster (my new superhero) is an understudy to the role of E.T. in Broadway's production of E.T.: The Musical. Nate must deal with a wide variety of creative staff, some old and some new, including a director who can't remember Nate's name and a choreographer fueled by junk food and poor fashion. At times it seems no matter how bright Nate shines, the staff only sees a sparkle and then other times when Nate would rather not be noticed, he's seen by all.

     In a rather interesting series of events Nate befriends Asella, a fellow understudy with 25 years' experience, who it would seem never carried much of a liking for children until Nate. With his best friend Libby's support from afar and the local support of Asella and his aunt Heidi, Nate is armed with all tools needed to navigate the business of show business in this gripping sequel.

Author Tim Federle

     I couldn't put this book down. A note from a secret admirer, the uncertainty of the production's future, tension with the leading role of Elliot, Jordan Rylance, who is also originally from the Pittsburgh area as well and incidental miracles will entrust your hands to the covers until you've finished the story, welcomed it into your heart, and shelved the book among your favorites.

     I finished this book in less than 24 hours and found myself filled to the brim with tears of joy throughout the final four chapters. I, as well as I'm sure many others, relate to the main character Nate and can't help but find myself going through so many emotions as if for the first time again with Nate. Euphoria, fear, worry, hopelessness, shame, hope, confusion, excitement, uncertainty and my favorite: love.

     Five, Six, Seven, NATE! will keep you on the edge of your futon and grinning from ear to ear by the end. Pre-Order Federle's newest book (to be released January 28th, 2014) in hardcover or for your Amazon Kindle.

Better Nate Than Ever by Tim Federle

     I've just had the privilege of reading Better Nate Than Ever by Tim Federle. Though it sounds as if it could be a highly personalized self-help book for Nates around the world revealing the secrets of becoming a better Nate than ever, it was actually the most delightful story I've read in a long while about Nate Foster, thirteen (nearly fourteen) year-old dreamer from a small town in Pennsylvania.

     Nate's stuck in a rut. His hometown doesn't seem to appreciate him, his talents are considered weird or "gay" by his peers he's often the target of bullying. Nothing dims the stage lights to the production of Nate's dream, however. Nate is going to be a star on Broadway. It all starts with a carefully-planned trip to New York to audition for the leading role in E.T.: The Musical...without his parents knowing about it.

     Nate's partner in crime (and most likely future agent) Libby helps him unlock his potential and fine tune his craft as an actor and singer. She encourages his love for Broadway and musicals and together they form an unbreakable bond of friendship that leads them through some pretty interesting situations in the book.

Author Tim Federle

     The characters in this book, particularly in New York where the majority of the story takes place, are fantastically and magically brought to life through Federle's writing. Throughout the book, I laughed, I cried, I was anxious then calm and finally overwhelmed with euphoria upon finishing the book. Federle will engage your senses, make a home for Nate in your heart and leave you inspired and uplifted.

     I also love that Nate hasn't quite figured out his sexuality - he's "undecided" and feels no pressure to declare or slap a label on himself. Though bullies throw their limited and cruel vernacular at Nate, he holds his head high. We are who we are and who we are is beautiful. He encounters hateful people, loving people, straight people and gay people and sees them all as equal individuals. When it comes to bullies, or a-holes, he speaks words of wisdom saying each day we all make a choice whether we're going to be a nice guy or an a-hole and Nate chooses to be a nice guy even in the face of bullying.

     I dare not spoil the events of the story. Will Nate make it to the audition? Will Nate make it back home undetected? Read it and find out but know that your heart will be engaged and you'll fall in love with Nate as you're cheering him on, admiring his courage. Nate's an inspiration for us all to follow our hearts and realize our dreams are always within our reach.

     Check out Better Nate Than Ever at your local library. You can purchase Better Nate Than Ever for Amazon Kindle or buy the hardcover book here. It is also available as an unabridged audio edition via Audible.