The Last Great Getaway of the Water Balloon Boys

Publisher:  Simon and Schuster
Expected Publication Date:   2010
Audience:  Young Adult

Life spins on a wheel.  The choices you make in the heat of the moment, during times of crisis, can forever alter the rest of your life.  In THE LAST GREAT GETAWAY OF THE WATER BALLOON BOYS, two teenagers make the choice to steal their principal’s ‘67 Mustang and end up on a life-changing road trip.

The trip starts as a lark, to give Charlie Hill’s absent father a portrait Charlie drew, but it evolves into much more — an edgy coming-of-age tale where shy, sixteen-year-old Charlie and his more experienced friend, Jake Tucker, deal with issues like suicide, sex, drugs, and the meaning of friendship . . . before a crisis a thousand miles from home forces Charlie to make the ultimate choice of his life. 

What Others Are Saying About the Book

“Carter’s coming of age story, reminiscent of Chris Crutcher’s finest, is packed with action and true, raw emotion. I couldn’t put it down! Carter presents a strong new voice in the world of young adult—and one this writer intends to follow.” - Phaedra Weldon, author of Wraith 

“Carter’s debut novel kept me up all night.  His story of two teen-age boys and their stolen-car joyride to manhood, will resonate with everyone who has questioned the nature of friendship, the limits of loyalty, or the mystery of parents.  The stunning climax will stay with you, long after you turn the last page.” - Christina F. York, author of Strategic Reserve

“The Last Great Getaway of the Water Balloon Boysbrims with wicked humor, edgy adventure, unexpected bravery, and hard choices that change lives forever.  Scott Carter has written one of the best stories I’ve read all year.  You must read this book!” - Leslie Claire Walker