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Staff Pick
In this engaging and funny YA novel, we meet 16-year-old Scott on a lone journey of self-discovery in Washington, DC. Join him as he meets a wild cast of well-crafted characters in Arvin Ahmadi's delightful debut. Recommended By Kim T., Powells.com
Synopses & Reviews
Scott Ferdowsi has a track record of quitting. His best friends know exactly what they want to do with the rest of their lives, but Scott can hardly commit to a breakfast cereal, let alone a passion. With college applications looming and his parents pushing him to settle on a “practical” career, Scott sneaks off to Washington, DC, seeking guidance from a famous psychologist who claims to know the secret to success.
He never expects an adventure to unfold. But that’s what Scott gets when he meets Fiora Buchanan, a ballsy college student whose life ambition is to write crossword puzzles. When the bicycle she lends him gets Scott into a high-speed chase, he knows he’s in for the ride of his life.
Soon, Scott finds himself sneaking into bars, attempting to pick up girls at the National Zoo, and even giving the crossword thing a try—all while opening his eyes to fundamental truths about who he is and who he wants to be.
Review
”Witty, smart, and inspiring, the novel celebrates life’s big and little surprises and the connections made between people that lead to profound changes.” Publishers Weekly, starred review
Review
“Arvin Ahmadi’s novel shares a lot in common with its irrepressible hero, Saaket. It’s quirky and charming, wise and unpredictable, and, dare I say it, full of big-hearted grit.” Khaled Hosseini, #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Kite Runner
Review
“A lively first novel . . . This humorous, deeply human coming-of-age story will connect with teens.” The Washington Post
About the Author
Arvin Ahmadi grew up outside Washington, DC. He graduated from Columbia University and has worked in the tech industry. When he’s not reading or writing books, he can be found watching late-night talk show interviews and editing Wikipedia pages. Down and Across is his first novel.