Aaron, the Big Brother in Big Brothers/Big Sisters, mentors Rico, a Hispanic child who never knew his father and whose mother is unreliable. Aaron is gay and reflective and never imagined how much this child's life would change his own, or how much he could care about this boy and his family. The book is lovely with astute observations of all characters involved. It's easy to read and compelling. Aaron's being gay added more complexity to this relationship, but he respected Rico and just loved him as a brother or sometimes a father. He wanted Rico to do well in life and have a family someday.

Both Aaron's and Rico's families are part of the story. The ups and downs of the teenage years test both Rico and Aaron and they learn so much. This true story is written in a readable, intimate way, about an enduring friendship, which may still be evolving today.

Someone in my family had such an enduring relationship, and it led to positive life changes and another enduring relationship with many joyful moments. The Big Sister we know says the same thing Aaron does -- she never imagined how much the child would change her life. If you ever thought about being a Big, Aaron's sage advice on just being there always is the most important.

This book came to me through Goodreads Giveaways.

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