"Paperboy" is a novel by Vince Vawter, published in 2013, that tells the story of an 11-year-old boy named Victor Vollmer, who struggles with a severe stutter as he takes on the responsibility of being a paperboy for a summer in Memphis, Tennessee, in the 1950s.
Victor is an introspective and observant boy who loves words and has a keen eye for details. Despite his stutter, he takes on the challenge of becoming a paperboy, delivering newspapers to his customers along his route. Along the way, he encounters various characters, both kind and unkind, and faces challenges that test his courage and resilience.
As Victor navigates the complexities of his stutter and the social dynamics of the segregated South, he learns about racism, friendship, and the power of empathy. He forms a bond with his African American co-worker, Mam, who helps him on his route and teaches him important life lessons. Victor also learns to confront his fears and stand up for what is right, even in the face of discrimination and adversity.
"Paperboy" is a coming-of-age story that beautifully captures the voice of a young boy grappling with his own limitations and discovering his inner strength. It explores themes of identity, race, and the power of human connection, and offers a heartwarming and authentic portrayal of a young boy's journey towards self-acceptance and understanding in the face of challenges.