"Pop says he knew you were already falling in love with him after the first two hours because you held onto his arm when Bucky F. Dent hit the home run" (Chapter 4, p. 23).

"Adolescence isn't just about growing hair, it's about growing up. I hope I'm ready for it" (Chapter 5, p. 48).

"At least once a week, try to make a mistake. And on the off-chance you discover that the world hasn't exploded, make another one" (Chapter 7, p. 72).

"And when he reached the finish, the ovation began while he was still delivering "knowing that here on earth God's work must truly be our own." That's when he turned toward the downstage wing, stared directly into my eyes, and ended on a shrug and a sheepish grin that was pure Anthony" (Chapter 10, p. 133-134).

"Ale's thrown me a breaking curve that I don't know how to handle. The more time...