"The Schwa Was Here" by Neal Shusterman is a humorous and heartfelt novel that follows the misadventures of Antsy Bonano, a middle schooler, and his quirky friend Calvin Schwa, who seems to be practically invisible to everyone.
Antsy Bonano is a regular kid living in Brooklyn, New York, until he meets Calvin Schwa, a classmate who goes unnoticed by teachers, classmates, and even his own parents. Intrigued by Calvin's invisible presence, Antsy becomes friends with him and together they embark on a series of comedic escapades and pranks.
As Antsy and Calvin's friendship deepens, they encounter various challenges and obstacles, including school bullies, misunderstandings, and their own insecurities. Along the way, Antsy learns valuable lessons about friendship, loyalty, and the importance of standing up for oneself and others.
As the story unfolds, Antsy and Calvin's adventures become increasingly complex and risky, leading them to confront their own fears and limitations. Through their escapades, they also come to understand the power of friendship and the impact they can have on each other's lives.
"The Schwa Was Here" is a witty and heartwarming coming-of-age novel that tackles themes of friendship, identity, and self-discovery. Shusterman's writing is engaging and humorous, capturing the struggles and joys of adolescence in a relatable and entertaining way. The novel offers a fresh and unique perspective on the challenges of growing up and finding one's place in the world.