You should own Danny Constantino’s First (And Maybe Last?) Date

DANNY CONSTANTINO’S FIRST (AND MAYBE LAST?) DATE, by Paul Acampora, Dial Books, July 14, 2020, Hardcover, $16.99 (ages 9-12)

I don’t know exactly what I was expecting from Paul Acampora’s Danny Constantino’s First (And Maybe Last?) Date, but it certainly wasn’t what I got. And what I got was delightful.

The story centers around Danny Constantino who asks his old friend to his local school dance and homecoming parade.

Sort of.

See, Natalie Flores Griffin is not a Hollywood movie star, and it’s Danny’s friend’s sister who asks for Danny.

Without his permission.

Much to everyone’s surprise — especially Danny’s — Natalie says yes.

Soon Danny’s “love life” is at the center of social media. Natalie is Cuper Cove’s hometown hero, and everyone wants a piece of her, including Danny’s mom, who wants to use Natalie as free publicity for her mayoral campaign.

Danny’s got his work cut out for him … if only he can figure out what he wants.

Danny Constantino’s First (And Maybe Last?) Date is a breath of fresh air. It’s bright. It’s funny. It’s fast-paced. It’s just the kind of book to get you out of Pandemic Funk No. 326.

Danny and his friends practically jump off the page. Their quirky personalities combine to make a friend mashup one can only dream of.

Paul Acampora’s wit permeates the text, leaving you wanting for more.

I read Danny Constantino’s First (And Maybe Last?) Date in one sitting, and I’d happily go back and read it again tomorrow.