The One-In-A-Million Boy

In May 2018 we chose “The One-In-A-Million Boy” by Monica Wood. This was a delightful read that was enjoyed by everyone in attendance and prompted a lot of discussion.

Though the title indicates it is about a boy, the story mostly is focused on the spunky 104 year old Lithuanian immigrant Ona Vitkus. She has a long and rich history that is slowly pulled out as she becomes acquainted with a unique and sweet Boy Scout assigned to help her in the yard. As their relationship develops, the boy’s obsession with Guinness records leads Ona to start considering the possibility that she could achieve a world record.

After weeks of their budding relationship, the boy suddenly dies, and his oft absent father takes his place helping in the yard. While he starts helping out of an obligation to fulfill his son’s Boy Scout badge, Quinn-the boy’s father- begins to build a friendship with Ona. Their relationship grows on the bond that the boy had forged and he learns about his son through the elderly woman.

Told with quirky flashbacks, wonderful interactions filled with reality, and interspersed with music, passions, and the realities of life, the story is well written and difficult to put down. This is a rich and beautiful novel that shows grief and pain, but also delight and joy. It’s a fun, unique and rewarding read. Though it tackles some emotionally challenging topics, such as death of a child and pain of broken relationships, it is an uplifting and tender read.

“Because the story of your life never starts at the beginning.”

― Monica Wood, The One-in-a-Million Boy