After several painful experiences with middle school bullies, Thai American Dan just wants is to fly under the radar, to be quiet and unnoticed by his peers. A three-week summer tour of Europe with a small group of students (some Dan’s classmates, some strangers) does not appeal, but his parents are determined to broaden their son’s horizons beyond their Los Angeles suburb before he begins high school. As the group travels by bus across France, Switzerland, Germany, Austria, and England, Dan befriends not only the kids in his group but others as well, including the French teenagers at his Austrian homestay and their adult host, Helga, who speaks German but bonds with Dan over their shared love of professional tennis. For Dan, the trip offers new sights, adventures, foods, cultures, independence, and even a first kiss; he has a whirlwind romance with fellow traveler Amy, which culminates in his first heartbreak upon their return to the United States (Amy lives in St. Louis). Along the way, Dan is gently encouraged by his teacher to step out of his comfort zone and “live a little.” With burgeoning self-confidence and a new thirst for adventure, Dan returns to L.A. more prepared to tackle whatever high school might bring. An author’s note and photos from the actual trip conclude this heartfelt and relatable graphic memoir. (Ages 10-14)

*Winner of the 2023 National Book Award for Young People's Literature*

A middle grade graphic memoir based on bestselling author and Caldecott Medalist Dan Santat's awkward middle school years and the trip to Europe that changed his life.

Dan's always been a good kid. The kind of kid who listens to his teachers, helps his mom with grocery shopping, and stays out of trouble. But being a good kid doesn't stop him from being bullied and feeling like he's invisible, which is why Dan has low expectations when his parents send him on a class trip to Europe.

At first, he's right. He's stuck with the same girls from his middle school who love to make fun of him, and he doesn't know why his teacher insisted he come on this trip. But as he travels through France, Germany, Switzerland, and England, a series of first experiences begin to change him—first Fanta, first fondue, first time stealing a bike from German punk rockers... and first love.

Funny, heartwarming, and poignant, A First Time for Everything is a feel-good coming-of-age memoir based on New York Times bestselling author and Caldecott Medal winner Dan Santat's awkward middle school years. It celebrates a time that is universally challenging for many of us, but also life-changing as well.

Praise for After the Fall

“The author gives wings to both his protagonist and his message about the importance of getting back up after a fall and the realization that recovering from a trauma takes time.” —Booklist, starred review

“Santat’s precise illustrations and sensitive text combine for more emotional depth than the typical nursery rhyme remix. A terrific redemptive read-aloud for storytime and classroom sharing.” —School Library Journal, starred review