The first part last

What I read for this week: The first part last (by Angela Johnson) depicts a story of a 16-year-old African American boy's growth, learning about life, and maturity. What's different from the mainstream young male images portrayed in traditional "boys novels" is the male coming of age doesn't equal to a flight from feminine (at least in my interpretation).

The story is told in first-person perspective from Bobby, a young father. Via the vignettes of the "then" and "now", changes in Bobby's life is clearly demonstrated. Like any other male teenagers, Bobby regards himself as a "boy" not yet a man. Therefore, as he knew his girfriend--Nia--was pregnant, he felt lost and panic. The idea of giving his daughter away for adoption first seems like an tempting appeal--so both Nia and Bobby can get back to their ordinary teeange life. However, after Feather was born, Bobby felt a close tie with his baby daughter, and would do anything to keep her and raise her.

However, finding a balance among his school work, prepare for college, stay in touch with his good friends, and taking care of his daughter stressed him out. But he has to remain strong because his girlfriend is almost dying in the hospital. Their daughter is the only thing they have, the only memory Nia gives him. No doubt, Bobby wept in darkness when he was alone, he struggled in class, found himself messed up in life, but he chose to stick to his own decision.

Taking the feminine role as a caretaker, Bobby realized his own responsibility for his daughter. He came through the shock of teenage pregnancy, the tragedy of his ill girlfriend, and led to the decision to do the "right" thing (quote from Bobby). With the support of his family members and neighbors and the empathy of his good friends, he eventually became a tough, independent young father who is clearly aware of his own responsibility and duty.