Ashton > Recent Status Updates

I can't help but equate the beginning of their journey to Frodo's first foray out of the Shire.
Danial is all but clueless about the terrain, and he follows Erin's lead without hesitation. Meanwhile, Reydon seems to cling to the two of them like a lost puppy. I'd attribute this to his recent loss, and his desperation. He's been alone since his family died, and now his life and this whole plan hinges on these two.

Definitely intended for an audience younger than me. I have a general rule to get through at least the first 100 pages before I make the decision to shelf it, but I'm already skimming pages. The early events don't feel like they hold much weight, and I'm not feeling much emotion from the MC. Not vibing with his friends, either. Trying (failing?)to put myself in the headspace of a middle schooler to understand better?