Move a generation beyond the Vietnam War and Toby’s summer in When Zachary Beaver Came to Town and pick up with Toby’s daughter in the 9/11 era in The Ambassador of Nowhere, Texas. A reader who loved the first book will have to wonder if the second measures up. After all, a National Book Award winner is a pretty high standard! I checked it out by rereading Zachary Beaver, followed immediately by the Ambassador.
The beginning of The Ambassador of Nowhere, Texas returns to familiar territory in Antler, Texas. Old friends from the first book show up in new places, a few buried in the cemetery. Toby’s wife turned out to be the first surprise, but I won’t spoil it for you.
Toby’s daughter Rylee explores the theme of friendship as her best friend Twig becomes distant and a new kid named Joe arrives in Antler from New York City in the aftermath of the death of his father in 9/11. As Rylee explores the complexities of her own relationships, she wonders about the one between her father, his best friend, and Zachary. She is not content with the idea of the two friends losing all touch with Zachary after he left Antler following the memorable summer when her father and Cal befriended him. Rylee and Joe begin their own search. For both generations, the value of friendship winds up in juxtaposition against the cost and effort to maintain or restore it.
The question about whether this book measures up to the first is a resounding, “Yes!” Perhaps you also wonder if it is necessary to read or reread Zachary Beaver before you read the Ambassador. The answer is the same as if you asked if it was necessary to put the hot fudge, cherry, and whipped cream on top of the vanilla ice cream. It is not essential, but why not give yourself the whole treat? – And this one is calorie free!