Book Description

Reviews (11)

Learning to face adversity even after a war's end
Ken's father spent WWII in the Minidoka Japanese-American Internment Camp in Idaho. Ken, the author was raised in Seattle. Shorty is stuck in the barracks without friends, surrounded by noise and boredom. No one has anything to do. His dad sees verves fraying and has an idea, Build a baseball diamond and organize games. The men make the diamond, the women improvise the uniforms. Games are scheduled under the gaze of the guard towers. Shorty scores a big hit under nervous angry pressure. After the war, he continues to be taunted, but learns self respect under the pressure of adversity. The benefit from this book, is that there is no whitewash. It is honest, and yes, he was called Shorty, cuz life is like that.

Amazing
This book is an amazing resource for teaching students about the inequalities that took place during WWII. It is a reality check to all of those who stood by and watched their fellow friends and neighbors as they were forced to leave their homes and be placed in internment camps in Hawaii. This is not just a gut check. This book served to illustrate how the simple things in life can mean everything. This book receives my highest rating and is first rate with teachers everywhere.

Kid's Eye View of Japanese Camps, Being an Outsider
I read this to my "just-turned 8" year old son who really identified with the kid as "odd man out." The story both communicates what it was like to be in a Japanese internment camp from a kid's perspective, and communicates how it feels to be an outsider (a feeling I'm sure every child has felt some time) by talking about baseball and being the "littlest" and physically different kid. A nice, serious story with a smile at the end.

Our Thoughts
Our 4th grade class at Lamar Elementary in Arkansas thought the book was very interesting. Especially interesting was the information on the Japanese-Americans being taken to the camps. We felt that the book was sad because they had to go to camps. We also thought it was neat because it tells about the past and history that we never knew before. This book tells a lot of history. It was a two thumbs up!
We didn't know about the Japanese kept as hostages.

A really moving book.
This book tells the story of a boy inside an internment camp during WWII. It deals with a lot of feelings, yet shows how determined the detainees were to survive and create an acceptable life for themselves. The story demonstrates that one must continue to strive for a good life even when conditions hold little promise for happiness. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Longing for adventure, Jack the blackbird decides one day to venture outfrom his forest home to seek the excitement of the sea. There he encounters adashing seagull named Jim, who welcomes Jack into his life and shows him thewonders of his seaside village. Unfortunately, the other (white) gulls aren't sohospitable. "Who's that funny bird," old Captain Seagull asks. In spite of Jim'sefforts to defend his friend, the villagers can't seem to get beyond Jack'sdifferences. Until, that is, they learn that he has a skill none of them do.Jack's ability to read funny stories from an old washed-up box of books wins thefriendship of the crusty gulls, and interspecies harmony abounds at last.

Though the story has an innocent sweetness to it and the plot line is pleasantlymeandering, the denouement seems forced as lessons about the importance oftolerance and the value of literacy are blurred. No question, the book's shiningglory is in its illustrations. Kitty Crowther's ink and watercolor pictures arequirky and appealing, with the seagulls dressed in jaunty stripes and Jack theblackbird in a handsome red shirt. The seagulls in the village have a mean,quarrelsome look about them, while Jack's and Jim's open expressions reflecttheir unbiased hearts. (Ages 4 to 7) --Emilie Coulter ... Read more

Reviews (2)

A Charming Tale of Acceptance
Jack and Jim charmingly tells the story of Jack, a blackbird, who comes to befriend a seagull named Jim. They meet on the beach (Fire Island?) and spend the night together, talking. The next morning, Jim takes Jack to his hometown, where Jim shows Jack the sights with his arm around his shoulder. After an exhasuting day, they spend the night together again. The next day, Jim's seagull friends reject Jack because he looks so different. Jack is thrilled when Jim tells him that if his neighbors can't accept Jack, then he won't be friends with them anymore. Later, Jack winds up winning Jim's friends over, and the formerly-nasty seagulls come to accept and value Jack. This is a sweet book about learning to respect diversity and to follow your heart. When I read the book to my three year old, he asked "Are they (Jack and Jim) partners?" Improbably, yes.

Excellent children's book!
This book has become one of my daughter's favorite books! It's illustrations, along with the message keep her attention. The story is about two friends who experience uncomfortable feelings from a seagull colony because one (Jack) is a black bird and the other (Jim) is a seagull. I picked this up from the local library, but will purchase it for my daughter's permanent collection. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

The Raving Review
The Raving Review

Hiram Hillburn loves spending time with his Grandma and Grandpa down in Greenwood, Mississippi. But then his Grandma dies and Hiram's parents decide to move to Tempe, Arizona. Then in the summer of 1955 when Hiram is 16, his parents decide to let him go back to Greenwood. But Hiram feels it is not the same Greenwood that he remembered as a young boy. Then a young African-American boy is murdered because of an ugly racial incident. Hiram is starting to learn why his father was trying to not let him go.
I liked the book for the most part, though there were a few parts I didn't care for, like when Hiram witnessed the ugly racial incidents. This book is based on real events. So, if you like true stories that are part of our country's history like this, then I would recommend this book to you. The author did a good job of making this book very descriptive. I give it 3½ out of 4 stars.

By: Adam ...

Racism...
I just finished this book tonight and I will say it is one of the best books I've read in a long time. The protagonist, Hiram, doesn't exactly get along with his father, especially where his grandfather is concerned. So when his father finally permits him to go to Greenwood, he is thrilled. But the town isn't how he remembers it to be. It is all perfectly clear when his 'friend' R.C. forces Emmett Till, a black youth from Chicago visiting his uncle, to eat fish guts. When Emmett whistles at a white woman, things go sour, and R.C. talks about wanting to go with a few men who invited him to teach Emmett a lesson. But then Emmett goes missing and when his body is found, Hiram has a feeling R.C. might be one of the men involved with the boy's brutal murder. Though two of the men, Roy Bryant and J.W. Milam, involved are on trial, it isn't known who the other two (a man and a woman) are. Will justice come to the Till family? And who else was involved in the murder of Emmett Till?

This book was excellent - the characterization, the setting, description, plot...it was a well-written, well-thought-out book. I recommend it to anybody who is looking for a good book on prejudice and the Civil Rights movement. It will really get you thinking.

Mississippi Trial, 1955
Crowe, Chris. Mississippi Trial, 1955. 2002. Phyllis Fogelman/Penguin Inc. 9-12.
This book is based on the true story of Emmett Till, a fourteen-year-old African American boy from Chicago who came south to visit relatives in Mississippi in the fall of 1955. A fish out of water in Mississippi, his behavior did not fit the accepted norm for behavior for a black person in the south at that time. Talking familiarly to a married white woman and being bold enough to whistle at her condemned him, in spite of his youth, to torture and death.

This extraordinary book will haunt you long after you finish reading it. It is a well-written tale with a constantly increasing tension and fully rounded and developed characters. This book is a terrible indictment of those good and loving citizens who had the secret dark side of the Clan hidden under their smiling faces. This is the coming of age story of a young white boy who goes back to visit his beloved grandfather and finds a world he was too young and innocent to see when he visited as a child. Hiram finds the difficulty in facing darkness is not the darkness that lies hidden in strangers, but the darkness hidden in ourselves and those we love. This book will win awards.

Adults and Teens should read this one
Martin Luther King, Jr., Rosa Parks, Malcolm X, Montgomery Bus Boycott, Freedom Rides, and the March on Washington. But one name and event is often missing: Emmett Till, a fourteen-year-old black boy from Chicago who was brutally murdered, his body dumped in the Tallahatchie River, for allegedly whistling at a white woman.
Told though the eyes of Hiram Hillburn, a white teenager who has come to spend the summer with his grandfather, the reader is taken into the heart of racism at a time when the passions of the south were volatile and violent. Hiram sees changes in his beloved south, his friends, and even his grandfather; changes which make him doubt his own safety. Hiram witnesses R.C. Rydell force Emmett to eat a raw fish at knife-point. Hiram's grandfather offers no sympathy, warning that "colored boys should know better than to push themselves on white folks." After Emmett is murdered, Hiram doesn't want to stay silent, he wants the truth to be told, even if it uncovers secrets about his own family.
Discuss of racism as it stands in our country today, and what can be done to prevent it.

A provacative look at a turning point in history
The trial of Emmett Till's murderers is a story everyone needs to hear about and this story is told in such a clear and enjoyable way, that all who read it will want to delve deeper into the history. I read it clean through in one sitting, never getting bored or tired. It is a clever blend of fact and fiction, the language captivates without distracting, and the events are so compelling the book leaves the reader rethinking life choices. Great for children and adults alike. In fact, I think this book can catch even the reluctant readers. ... Read more

Book Description

More than anything, Beatrice longs to be a schoolgirl. But in her small African village, only children who can afford uniforms and books can go to school. Beatrice knows that with six children to care for, her family is much too poor.

But then Beatrice receives a wonderful gift from some people far away -- a goat! Fat and sleek as a ripe mango, Mugisa (which means "luck") gives milk that Beatrice can sell. With Mugisa's help, it looks as if Beatrice's dream may come true after all.

Page McBrier and Lori Lohstoeter beautifully recount this true story about how one child, given the right tools, is able to lift her family out of poverty. Thanks to Heifer Project International -- a charitable organization that donates livestock to poor communities around the world -- other families like Beatrice's will also have a chance to change their lives. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

a great gift idea
Buy this book and then donate a goat through the heifer foundation in a child's name. Together they make a great gift. Be creative: throw in some goat cheese and other goat items and make it a gift for a whole family.

The book is a true story of how a little girl's family got a goat that, more or less, changed their lives. Very cute story and a good cause.

a gentle book with a powerful message
Our 5 & 7 year olds love this glimpse into a life so different from their own, and loved seeing the work of Heifer International in action. This is a great way to show youngish children how a small action can have a big result, and how people can take a small opportunity, and with hard work, turn it into something that can change their life. Written with a warm gentleness, this is definitely a book for sharing.

An Eloquent, Uplifting Story
Beatrice lives in the village of Kisinga, Uganda with her mother and five younger brothers and sisters. Life is hard and the family is very poor. Beatrice dreams of going to school, but knows that the family probably will never have the money for books and a uniform, so that she can attend. And then one day everything changes; the family receives a goat. Beatrice names the goat Mugisa, which means lucky because her mother said the goat was their lucky gift. Soon the goat gives birth to two kids and the family's life begins to change. They have milk to drink and some to sell and in time, they are able to sell one of the kids to improve their lives even more. They build a new sturdy hut with a steel roof that won't leak and are even able to make Beatrice's dream of going to school come true..... Based on the true story of how one family was helped by Heifer Project International, an organization that donates livestock to poor communities, Page McBrier's beautiful and engaging picture book shows how different life can be in other parts of the world and how little it takes to bring hope and changes to developing countries. Her eloquent text is complimented by Lori Lohstoeter's rich and expressive illustrations and together, in a very simple, gentle way, they show youngsters how something, even as small as a goat, can lift a family out of desperate poverty and give them a better life. Perfect for children 4-8, Beatrice's Goat is an uplifting story told with great insight and a wonderful addition to all home bookshelves.

Great message, great charm, and fun
You can't do better than a book with a great message, that also has a charming story that kids love to read again and again. My daughter is 6 and has read this book many times. It's made her appreciate what she gets for dinner when she realizes that a whole family's food supply could be profoundly affected by owning one goat!

What a Wonderful Charity and Heartfelt Story
If you are trying to teach your children the value of volunteerism and sharing this book is for you! Not only is the story genuine and touching but it supports one of the best charities in existence today. Children all over the world have so much less then children born in the US and with just a simple gift of a goat you can help to change a family's life. What the story doesn't tell you are how goats/cows/chickens/pigs, etc. have also helped keep families from "selling" their young daughters into prostitution to support their families. If you want to do something worthwhile for a family much less fortunate then your own - - BUY A GOAT - - you'll be so happy you did. ... Read more

Book Description

Mafatu's name means "Stout Heart," but his people call him a coward. Ever since the sea took his mother's life and spared his own, he has lived with deep fear. And even though his father is the Great Chief of Hikueru--an island whose seafaring people worship courage--he is terrified, and consequently, he is severely scorned.

By the time he is fifteen years old, Mafatu can bear it no longer. He must conquer his fear alone. . . even if it means certain death.

This classic tale of a young boy's hidden strength has been a favorite of readers of all ages since its 1940 publication--now this exclusive audio preserves its original poignancy and splendor, and brings Mafatu to life for future generations of listeners.

Highlights of Lou Diamond Phillips's film credits include Courage Under Fire, Young Guns II, Stand and Deliver, and La Bamba. An accomplished stage actor, he starred in the critically acclaimed Broadway revival of The King and I. ... Read more

Reviews (61)

Call It Courage
I like the book Call It Courage because it was about a boy named Mafatu and his way of life . It also told about how Mafatu had courage and how he was brave and strong after his mother was taken by the sea. This book was full of adventure.

The best part of the book was when Mafatu found the statue on the forbidden island. He was walking through the woods and was surprised to find this statue in the middle of nowhere.

The two story elements that were the most vivid were the theme and the characters. The theme was cconguering your fear. Mafatu needed to face his fears of survive on his own. He was successful throughout the story. The author did a good job of describing Mafatu and the people he met. I was able to see in my mind what each person looked like.

Call It Courage
The book Call It Courage was written by Armstrong Sperry, and is about a boy named Mafatu, which means 'stout heart'. Mafatu, who lives on the pacific island of Hikueru, has an enormous fear of the sea caused by a canoe accident that took his mothers life, and he is constantly mocked with taunts about being a coward. One day he is fed up with it, and along with his dog Uri, he sets out on a canoe to prove to himself and others that he is not a coward. When Mafatu reaches another island, adventure ensues when he has to learn to survive on his own and return to Hikueru with pride and courage.
This book was all right because it was entertaining and interesting, but the thing I didn't like is that it's very simple. I recommend it to a younger age group, it is a good book for young children and people who like simple reading.

One grownup who liked it...
I read this one when I was a kid, probably around fourth or fifth grade, and I loved it.

This is really an incredible story, predating Castaway and Life of Pi by sixty-some years, and still remaining a solid story for today's readers. Mafatu is a boy of about twelve living on the Polynesian island of Hikueru, who has lost his mother to the sea and is deathly afraid of it. One day, to conquer his fear, he sets out himself and winds up a castaway on a volcanic island.

The thing that fascinated me as a child reading this was Mafatu's ingenuity -- the construction of the outrigger canoe, the making of his clothing and food, teaching himself to hunt and build and survive. While I wouldn't have wanted to be so far from home, in some ways I wanted to be him, experiencing that world half a planet away. TV shows like Survivor have nothing on this.

The ambiguous ending (I prefer to think it's a happy one, but that is by no means clear) is a satisfying, if bittersweet, wrapup to one of the greatest, most intense, most incredible adventure stories that any child could ever enjoy. This is highly recommended, both to children who want something a little different to read and to adults who want to remember what it was like when that treefort in the backyard was a gateway to an entirely different world.

The Boy Who Was Afraid
Call it Courage, is the story of Mafatu, a young boy who lost his mother to sea and has ever since been afraid, then he gets sick and tired of the teasing, and runs a way, this book is about his adventures on the sea.

Call It Courage
This book is about a young boy named Mafatu that has lost his mother to a terrible sea accident. Ever since he has feared the sea. Due to this is is constantly being made fun of. While the other boys are out in their canoes he is helping make nets back on land. Mafatu decides to run away and face his fear. He takes his dog Uri and sets off to sea. He lands on an island and here learns what it takes to conquer the sea and has wonderful adventures that help build his courage. I enjoyed this book and it was very easy to read. ... Read more

Reviews (41)

A Captivating and Interesting Novel
This novel by David Klass tells the story of sixteen year old Jimmy Doyle and his journey from a small town in Minnesota to an American Dream Team basketball competition in Italy. At first, Jimmy doesn't want to leave his girlfriend Janey and his widowed mother and two younger sisters when basketball scouts recruit him. At his mother's urging, he flies to Los Angles for the team's training. He discovers that all the other members of the team are black and are some of the most well-known high school basketball players in America. The white boy from Minnesota doesn't quit fit in, but begins to learn about the lives of his black teammates. He develops an especially difficult relationship with Augustus, a tough dude from inner city Los Angeles.

When the Dream Team arrives in Italy, it faces neo-Nazi racism against the predominantly black players. Death threats provide a suspenseful plot as the American team accumulates victories on the court. The climax of the book teaches Jimmy that racism can hurt anyone.

I recommend this fast-paced book to any sports minded teenager who wants to see how people from different backgrounds can become friends and brothers under the skin. The conversation between the teenagers is realistic. Their lives are complicated. Jimmy takes risks in this book and learns that
having guts in dangerous zones can bring not just glory but also a deeper understanding of life.

A Great Mix of Basketball and Adventure
Danger Zone is a very good book. I really enjoyed it because it was about basketball and adventure. The Basketball part was easy for me to understand because I have played basketball in the past and I could relate to it, and the adventure part of the book kept me turning the pages to find out what would happen next. This book was also enjoyable for me because it was full of controversy and that made it very interesting for me to read. The controversy was of race, but David Klass did a great job of integrating basketball into the arguments also.

The main argument in the story is between Jimmy and Augustus. Both Jimmy and Augustus are on the USA's 17 and under American all star team. Augustus is mad at Jimmy because Jimmy took Augustus' cousin's place on the team and he thinks this is because Jimmy is white and his cousin is black. This fuels many arguments and ends up in an eventual temporary kidnap. The problem is still not solved in the last scene, but everyone seems to be happy and both Jimmy and Augustus are competitive but nice at the same time, which leads to a bumpy, but good ending.

All in all Danger Zone was a very intriguing that kept me wanting to read more and think about the book even when I wasn't reading it. This book is great for sports fans, thriller fans, or anyone else who likes to read. I would recommend it to anyone.

Small town Hero, Big Lessons learned
This book is about a small town hero named Jimmy Doyle, when the time is right, can do amazing things with a basketball. This is why he is selected to play for an American High School Dream Team. He will get the chance to travel around Europe. There is just one problem. In the town that he grew up in, there wasn't a lot of racial balance. He had only see a few African Americans in his lifetime, so coming to Los Angeles was a big step for him. He had to deal with his teammates who were predominately black. He has to deal with prejudices people thinking he is only there because he is white. He has some rough times with an LA native standout Augustus LeMay. Through out the book I think it is very interesting and wise that Jimmy tries to learn from Augustus. I think if more people try what Jimmy did, we wouldn't have half the problems we have in society today. Jimmy also get his first confrontation with racism when they travel to Germany and encounter some Skin Heads. This is probably a very tough experience for Jimmy because he has never been in this situation. I think people can learn a lot about this book, it teaches very good lessons. You learn some about the lifestyles people have growing up in large cities. Overall I believe this is probably one of the best books that I have read. I have now read it multiple times and recommend it to all of my friends.

Racism
A Reviewby Ian

Jimmy Doyle is a high school basketball player from Minnesota that is chosen to play on an All-American team that will travel to Italy to play in a tournament. Jimmy is soon to find out that not all of Jimmy's teammates want him on the team, mainly because he is white. Jimmy must endure racism and death threats from people around the world. Jimmy and his teammates must overcome racism to achieve their goals.

I like how this book keeps you on the edge of your seat. You always want to know what happens next in the story, and how Jimmy handles certain situations. I also admire the main character in the story, Jimmy. Not only is he a good basketball player, but he does a good job handling all of the racism and death threats he receives. Another thing I like about this book is how the team must overcome hostility from an entire country to achieve their goals and win. The team does a good job of sticking together to overcome many things, and not letting racism get the best of them.

I would definitely recommend this book to anybody who enjoys basketball, and suspense. I always wanted to know what was going to happen to Jimmy next. I think it is a really good book and it kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time.

Livin' on the Edge
A Review by Stefan

Jimmy Doyle, a seventeen year old from Minnesota, is a supremely skilled basketball player. When two scouts from Los Angeles, California come to talk to Jimmy Doyle about playing in an All National seventeen and under team, he accepts but only after being talked into it by his mother and his girlfriend. The team he plays for actually then goes to play in Europe where all the seventeen and under teams play for the world championship. Along the way, Jimmy makes some good friends, a few enemies while dealing with fear, doubt and concentration.

One thing that I love about Danger Zone is that David Klass portrays Jimmy in his home town of Granham, Minnesota as being the hometown basketball "hero". "Doyle, Doyle, Doyle went the sound of the bleachers as we walked onto the court for the second half". The second thing I like about Danger Zone is the realness it gives me from the coaches despite it being a fictional story. "'Okay, all you get your butts over here,' he shouted. 'Anybody who wises off will be running wind sprints till their legs fall off.'" The third thing I absolutely love about Danger Zone is the way Los Angeles is portrayed with such realism and nothing is held back. (With gangs and violence and such) "'You got the PG-13's, the 18th Street East, West, North and South. They don't like blacks too much. We get out of this car and inside five minutes we got guns to our heads.'"

To every basketball player or fan who has every wondered what its like to be one of the greats in the world at a sport like basketball, this is our book. If you're a kid or an adult who love books about basketball and the realism that lies within basketball, then this book is for you. This is an extremely interesting and intense book and it will keep you on the edge of your seat one hundred and ten percent of the time! ... Read more

Book Description

Daddy's Promise is about a little boy's journey of discovery after the death of his father.Jesse is angry and filled with questions. Why did his daddy have to die?What happens when someone dies?Where do they go? Jesse's questions are answered both by his mother, and in a series of dreams where Jesse visits his father and learns about life, death and life after death.

Daddy's Promise answers common questions children have about death, as well as suggestions for coping.Concrete, simple explanations are given for what happens when someone dies.During dream-like visits with his father, Jesse learns more about death, what happens when we die and where our spirits go. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

HELPFUL DURING A DIFFICULT TIME
I PURCHASED THIS BOOK JUST DAYS AFTER MY FOUR YEAR OLD SON LOST HIS FATHER IN A MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT. IT WAS VERY HARD TO FIND AGE APPROPRIATE MATERIAL CONCERNING THE DEATH OF A FATHER BECAUSE MOST BOOKS ON DEATH AND DYING PERTAIN TO PETS AND GRANDPARENTS OR WENT INTO THE FUNERAL AND CEMETARY ASPECTS TOO MUCH. THE CONCEPT OF "HIS BODY STOPPED WORKING" WAS A GOOD WAY TO EXPLAIN HIS PASSING. IT RE-AFFIRMED OUR BELIEFS THAT HIS FATHER WILL ALWAYS BE A PART OF HIS LIFE AND HE CAN DREAM OF HIS DAD OFTEN. THE PICTURES ARE A LITTLE LACKING BUT THE STORY IS WORTH READING. IF YOU NEED HELP EXPLAINING DEATH TO A CHILD OR WANT THEM TO KNOW THEY ARE NOT ALONE I WOULD RECOMMEND THIS BOOK TO YOU.

Uplifting for children who have lost a parent
My husband died of cancer, leaving behind 5 children between the ages of 1 and 10. This book was very helpful to all of them, not just the boys. Addresses feelings they may have had during the parent's illness and death, helps to resolve issues that may have been left undone or unsaid between parent and child, and gives the child permission to continue on and live a happy life. A very hopeful, constructive, positive book that has been read over and over in our home. ... Read more

Amazon.com

With a little handholding (or paw-holding) from Angus the Answer Dog,Mommy's first-born can be guided happily and intelligently through the oftenbewildering experience of becoming an older sibling. For children who are aboutto lose their only-child status (or their youngest-child status, in largerfamilies), this read-aloud book is a treasure. On each two-page spread, Angusasks a question: "Where is the baby?" "How did the baby get in there?" "Can thebaby hear and see me?" "Why doesn't Mommy feel well sometimes?" and more, eachquestion anticipating the next. He answers these queries with clarity,sensitivity, and attention to age-appropriateness that will be a huge relief toparents and children. Each section has a little game or idea to help childrenunderstand what's happening in their family. The introduction invites parents toadd to or edit the information provided, according to their own child-rearingphilosophies.

Heidi Murkoff, coauthor of the bestselling pregnancy book, What to Expect When You'reExpecting, writes lucidly and honestly in all the books in thetremendously appealing What to Expect series for young children, including What to Expect When You Use thePotty and What to ExpectWhen You Go to the Doctor. Laura Rader's cartoonish illustrations arefun and reassuring. Poor Angus will be dog-eared in no time! (Ages 2 to 5)--Emilie Coulter ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Perfect for young children!
I got this book for my 4 year old daughter and soon-to-be-big sister. She had many questions like, "How did the baby get in there?" and "How will the baby get out?" that I wasn't sure how to answer. I wanted to be honest AND age-appropriate, but felt a little overwhelmed. This book asnwers these questions and many more in simple words for kids to understand. I'd suggest this book for anyone with a preschool aged child who is about to have a new sibling. My daughter also enjoys the activities suggested with each question. This book has made it much easier for me to discuss many aspects of childbirth with her.

Excellent book, but more for older children (4 & up)
Great book with lots of info, but it's written more for ages 4 & up even though it says it's for 2 & up. The terminology is that which most 2 & 3 year-olds will not understand even if it's explained to them. And the "How did the baby get in Mommy's tummy?" section is one I've skipped over when reading the book to my son. A little too much intimate detail for a 2yo to comprehend. Overall, an excellent book, but keep in mind that there are a couple sections you'll probably skip if your soon-to-be older sibling is under 4.

The best book I have gotten for my older child....
This book has really helped in preparing my older child for his new sibling. We read this just about every night now and he is excited to mark the milestone of which month I am in and what the baby is looking like according to the cute little pictures. I highly recommend this book to anyone dealing with preparing their child or children for new siblings!

Excellent book for kids 3 and up
I got this book for my daughter last spring, when I was pregnant with her sister. The book is wonderful. It answers kids' questions in a way that they can understand. My daughter was 3 1/2 at the time and the book was a favorite -- it satisfied her curiosity in a more "grown-up way" than most other sibling stories, but without giving too much information. I have found that many books just treat the pregnancy as a very vague and "untouchable" topic for kids. This brings it home in a sensitive and caring way.

The questions asked (Where is the baby? How did the baby get in there? How can a baby fit inside Mommy? What makes the baby grow & how can I help? How does the baby eat? Can the baby see and hear me? What does the baby do all day? Why doesn't Mommy feel well sometimes? Why does Mommy go to the doctor so much? When will the baby come out? & How does it come out?) cover most aspects of pregnancy. The "How did the baby get in there?" section does use correct terms (sperm and ovum) but does not get too "graphic" -- it explains conception as pieces of a puzzle fitting together. The book also uses terms like umbilical cord and birth canal, but in a way that is not intimidating to kids. The book gives a good overview and makes the sibling feel connected and part of the process (each section refers to something they can do to help out or experiment to help them feel what the baby may be feeling). I would have loved if the book had covered what happened once the baby came home -- but I see now that topic is a whole new book!

I highly recommend this book! Enjoy it with your soon-to-be big brother/sister! It can promote a lot of discussion & create some special moments together before the baby comes -- it did for us!

Answers Kids Questions!
This book helped me answer my 4 y.o. son's questions about how the baby eats, why mommy may need rest, and how to help take care of the baby... Just what we were looking for! ... Read more

Book Description

Amazon.com

Cameron, Carla, and Len were fascinated (for different reasons) with guns and target shooting at the Patriots' club range until the day Len brought his Kalashnikov rifle, his AR-18, and his Ruger pistol to school, and shot and killed football jock Brad Williams, and then himself. Here is yet another school shooting story that begins with bullying and ends with disaster--a type that is becoming almost a sub-genre of YA fiction. Yet Walter Dean Myers, winner of many awards for his young adult novels, brings freshness and new anguish to this familiar tale (and growing social problem) of unstable victim tormented by bullies to homicidal rage. Following the example of his own masterwork Monster, Myers uses different perspectives in the aftermath of the "incident" to reveal the characters and to tell the story: interviews with Cameron and Carla by The Harrison County School Safety Committee, newspaper reports, a police report,Len's handwritten "die-ary" of his deranged thoughts, and finally, a grim medical examiner's report. The contrasts and contradictions in these various perspectives challenge readers to produce their own versions of why Cameron and Carla became Len's followers and what could have prevented this tragedy and others like it in real life. (ages 12 and up) --Patty Campbell ... Read more

Reviews (4)

BETTER THAN MONSTER!!
Based on the horrors of the Columbine Massacre, this book probes "The Dark Side of Youth". It is done both tactfully and thoughtfully, and raises the questions such as: Were there family problems that led to the deviance? How were teasing and taunting responsible for their actions? Was there a leader, and how much is the follower responsible? SHOOTER hosts other questions and concerns that we all have. Not many are answerable, but will make students think. We are studying what happened in Columbine,and comparing it with the fictional accounts in this book. Students can't get enough of the book, the research and their thoughts in class! What more can you ask for at the end of the year?

A MUST READ FOR TEENS AND THEIR PARENTS
The story is about violence and the characters are disturbing, but this book has an interesting way of reaching its audience and getting the message across. _Shooter_ is about a school shooting. The set up is unique. It reads like an investigation with statements, interviews, a diary, and written conclusions. The story is both depressing and compelling. It's the kind of book teens will pass on to each other and hopefully share with their parents.

The actors of the audio version are Chad Coleman, Bernie McInerney, and Michelle Santopietro. They do a superb job of bringing the troubled teens and the investigation to life.

A haunting, powerful read
Walter Dean Myers, author of the Michael L. Printz Award-winning MONSTER and many other acclaimed children's books, has done it again. Told from multiple perspectives in the aftermath of a high school shooting, Myers's latest effort SHOOTER tells the haunting story of three misfit teens.

Through a series of interviews, newspaper clippings and the diary of a troubled teen, the story unfolds. The reader learns about the shooter, Leonard, through in-depth interviews with his best friend Cameron and his ex-girlfriend Carla. Conducted by a school psychologist, an FBI agent, a threat analysis specialist and the town sheriff, the meetings demonstrate the different voices of the characters and reveal the teens' angst and desire to belong to a group.

Leonard assumes the role of leader with his friends. He introduces them to guns and brings them to the Patriots' target shooting club. Cameron and Carla are so needy for companionship that they don't see how disturbed Leonard truly is. They don't know the extent of his inner demons until it is too late. Leonard shows up at school one day with his guns and goes on a shooting spree, killing Brad, a jock and source of constant torment, and then himself.

SHOOTER is a haunting story that uncovers the pain of several high school students. It explores the tragedies of school violence and how the result of bullying can go to the most dramatic extreme. Myers has a gift for expressing the voices of his characters. Through every word, pause and breath in these interviews, we gather understanding. The excerpt from Leonard's diary, or as he calls it, "die-ary," reveals the twisted mind of the force behind the event. Parts of the diary are almost poetic, a technique common in Myers's writing. SHOOTER is not a light read, but it will leave you reeling.

(...)

Readers see it all...
Ever since Columbine, perhaps before, the public has been aware of the potential for violence in youths. In Shooter, we get a glimpse of the aftermath of a similiar incident. In what is termed a cult shooting, two boys are killed, one of them as a result of suicide, one murder. Six other students are injured. Police and psychologists are left with the task of reconstructing what was going on in the minds of those involved. Their assessments focus on two students, a young black boy who was the best friend of the suicide victim, and the girlfriend of the suicide victim. Both are a mix of anger, confusion, and hurt that cries out for love. Both are too old to be so young.

***** Readers sit in on the interviews with these two and are given a peak into police records, news articles, and reports. It is a harsh, grim, bleak read; but very insightful and telling. Although billed as a teen book, parents should exercise caution due to the darkness of the subject matter. However, adults might benefit from reading it, so as to get an insight into the world that their children are exposed to and may be part of if they are not careful. *****

Reviewed by Amanda Killgore. ... Read more

Book Description

Poor Rodney Rat can't pronounce his R's and the other rodents tease him mercilessly. But when Camilla Capybara joins Rodney's class and announces that she is bigger, meaner, and smarter than any of the other rodents, everyone is afraid. It seems she really is bigger, meaner, and smarter than all of the rest of them. Until our unwitting hero, Wodney Wat, catches Camilla out in a game of Simon Says. Read along with Wodney as he surprises himself and his classmates by single-handedly saving the whole class from the big bad bully. Children will delight as shy Rodney Rat triumphs over all and his tiny voice decides the day, R's or no R's. ... Read more

Reviews (26)

Hooway for Lester and Munsinger!
They've done it again! The team who brought us such memorable books as A Porcupine Named Fluffy and Tacky the Penguin are at their absolute best with Hooway for Wodney Wat. Funny text and hysterical illustrations combine to make the perfect read aloud book. I laughed so hard I cried. A must have!

To Be a Hero, Just Be Yourself.....
Poor Rodney Rat...he can't say his R's, and life at P.S. 142, where all his classmates tease him mercilessly, is pretty miserable. "All of this teasing day in and day out made Wodney the shyest rodent in his elementary school. His squeak could barely be heard in class. He gnawed lunch alone. And while the other rodents scurried and scooted about at recess, Wodney hid inside his jacket. Then one day, a new student, Camilla Capybara, entered the class and began to wreak havoc. "I'm bigger than any of you. I'm meaner than any of you. And I'm smarter than any of you." And she meant it! That afternoon, poor Wodney Wat's luck turned from bad to worse. He was chosen to lead the daily game of Simon Says and his speech impediment, unfamiliar to Camilla, suddenly became an asset..... The dynamic duo who brought us the wonderful Tacky books, have written an engaging story that will have kids cheering for this shy little underdog as he becomes the class hero and saves the day. Helen Lester's simple, gentle text is complemented by Lynn Munsinger's bold, bright, and expressive artwork, and together they've authored an entertaining story about an endearing character, that's filled with insight, wisdom and humor. This is a story that will inspire little ones to have courage, and to stand up and believe in themselves. "And from that day on the pupils of P.S. Elementary School for Rodents never teased Wodney again. He was their hero. "Hooway for Wodney Wat!" they cried. "Woot! Woot! Wooty-toot-toot!" Perfect for youngsters 3-7, Hooway For Wodney Wat is a treasure.

Root (Woot) for the Underdog
In this story, the Wodney Wat starts out as timid and tucked inside himself because he was teased for who he was. As the book progresses, he becomes happier with himself and is able to have fun with all the students. That was the happy ending, in my opinion.

It covers a variety of content areas!
At first glance, one might think that this is a book solely meant for entertainment. However, after the initial reading, one discovers that the text can provide the primary/elementary child with instruction in a variety of skills: animal identification, phonemic awareness, rhyme, as well as social skills like acceptance, tolerance, cooperation, and handling bullies, all character development skills so necessary in today's world.

And, besides that, it's a fun read!

Hooway For This Book!
This story is about a rat named Rodney who couldn't pronounce r's. Instead, he pronounced his r's as w's. The other kids made fun of him at school until he chases a bully away and becomes the class hero. We liked this story because Rodney was very shy and nervous and at the end of this story he is proud of himself. You should read this story because it teaches you about tolerance and spirit. ... Read more

Reviews (57)

This book is impossible to hate!
This book is very sad but at times very heart-warming. It brought tears to my eyes. I'm going to order it and read it over. I read it in fifth grade when I was eleven, and I had one of the best book experiences that I ever had. This book is: sad, emotional, happy at times, and very interesting. The ending though was so confusing. How Georgie gave something up that was so precious to him. I won't give the book away, because that's not fun. This book has some abuse in it, but that really makes you look at life better. I've read reviews that said that there is too much abuse, and it just isn't a big deal. I think that books that make you cry, and touch you so deaply, can make you look at life better. This book is so wonderful that it feels as if it's real life, well this story could happen, really. Read this book, it is so great. I don't know how anyone can hate it, it's just not possinle. three *... stars is as low as it can go. I really want to buy this book again, and read it over and over. I never get tired of it, and I'm sure you won't either. Very Good book. Unlike any other. If you don't read it, you'll feel so bad, because it's so good. Just put a bucket in front of you incase you cry, and three boxes of tissues next to you. I cried because of the sad parts in it, I cried because it ended. Such a sad story. And if there are any parents reading this right now, well you don't have to worry about a thing. This book is great for kids. (It may even get them to behave better! I bet you'll love that) It really made me behave better. This book really moved me, and I'm sure it will move you completely. But don't forget the tissues and the buckets, You'll need it later trust me.

Don't Judge This Book by it's Title
The Lottery Rose, by the excellent author Irene Hunt, is a heartwrenching story about a little seven year-old boy struggling to survive in his own household. His alcoholic mother and her evil boyfriend Steve physically and verbally abuse Georgie Burgess. Craving for love, and living in a broken home, he courageously endures his beatings hoping that someday it will end.
At a grocery store lottery, Georgie wins a little rose bush, which receives all the attention, love, and care that he is starved of. The rosebush becomes a symbol of love and hope for the deprived child, and he becomes attached to it for security. Flowers are the only thing he finds true beauty in, which is why he is so connected to his rosebush.
School is no refuge for this innocent child marked "trouble maker" by his ignorant teachers. He grew up being told and thinking he was dumb, which ruined his self-opinion from a young age. He has no where to run or hide from pain, and is chained to his mother by love, until one day Steve and Rennie go too far and nearly kill him in their usual drunken rage. The police then remove Georgie from his broken home filled with scarring memories.
Georgie is removed from his home and placed in a Catholic school for boys. He has a difficult time learning how to give and accept love- something he's never had. He gains more self-esteem when he learns how to read, and realizes he was never dumb to begin with. It takes time to heal emotionally and not deny the scars covering his back.
I compare this book to They Cage the Animals at Night an equally appalling and emotionally powerful novel based on a true story about child abuse. Books like these make your problems seem ridiculous and easy, and your life more fortunate. The painful experiences Georgie endured will haunt him the rest of his life; he will always be different. To make matters worse, he becomes best friends with a little boy who suffers from a mental problem. Georgie understands this boy named Robin, because they are both different. One day Robin dies, and Georgie experiences more tragedy. Irene Hunt has mastered the art of character development. As ALA Booklist states, "A deeply affecting, affirmative story..." The best thing about this book is it is only a story.
I recommend The Lottery Rose to any reader who loves children, or who is an alcoholic, or who believes in anti-alcoholism, or is a Catholic, or is a mother who lost her child, or any person interested in reading an amazing novel about misfortune and life's many problems, and how they can be changed for the better. I give this book the 5 stars it deserves.

Heart touching and eye opening
Abused, neglected, an appearance to match your life and deprived of happiness and love, little Georgie Burgess redefines the meaning of tough in the novel The Lottery Rose. Your mother is drowned in a sea of alcohol every night and there is no defense for you withstand the menacing blows of her boyfriend those were just some of Georgie's daily issues. There was also his lack of understanding in school, an outside porch to sleep on, and never enough food to eat in the kitchen.
It was a miracle Georgie could manage to stay alive under the circumstances he was forced to live in. However Georgie found a way to hide his hurt and disguise his pain. Instead of running away from home Georgie ran away to the garden and got to feel true happiness with the roses. He had once received a lottery card from a sympathetic employee at the corner market, the prize was a bundle of small dried out roses that Georgie adored and claimed it was the best present in the world when he won them. Georgie knew his mother's boyfriend Steve would not agree with Georgie's present considering he once strangled a small kitten Georgie brought home. Georgie drove Steve crazy and his anger reached its pinnacle when Georgie would scream shrieks of terror every time he saw Steve. One night Steve decided he wasn't going to take it anymore and beat Georgie unconscious. He was shortly rescued by a group of strangers trying to convince him he was going to be ok.
Georgie's real life experience didn't really start until he had left the hospital and his old home and was now under the care of Sister Mary Angela in a private religious school out in the middle of nowhere. Georgie started there as an outcast and very shy of his friendly surroundings. Georgie was not the brightest crayon in the box and the other young boys were taking notice of his unkempt appearance and tormenting him about it. However Georgie did end up making a best friend Timothy who tried nothing more than to befriend Georgie. While at this school Georgie furthered his passion for roses, in fact he still cherished his small bundle of dried roses and chartered them around. It was not long before Georgie spotted the perfect place to plant his roses, what he didn't know was that this would be start of his next major life crisis.
Throughout his very few years of existence Georgie has encountered more obstacles than most adults can account for in their lifetimes. Georgie has been nearly dead and had experienced death. By the end of the novel Georgie had learned not only to give love to his roses and Robin but he can now except love from Mrs. Harper and Sister Mary Angela.
The Lottery Rose is a heart touching novel that causes the reader to connect with Georgie Burgess and share in some of his pain and heartache, but also to respect his strength and defense. It opened my eyes to a world of suffering we so easily block out today. It forced me to analyze the reality of our modern day society and the novel brings new meaning to the phrase: "who said growing up would be easy."

Just Perfect
I would have to say that this book is the best book that I have read in my whole life! The first time I read this book was in fifth grade, and I remembered everything about it. When I have the choice to pick a book to read in class I pick The Lottery Rose in a heart beat. This book will bring emotions to you that you never thought you had. At times this book will bring a smile, at other times it will bring tears to your eyes. The title of the book may not be so eye catching, but you have to take a chance and just read it. Believe me you'll love it. I have to agree that the ending of the book is not a good one. The author could have done better. But the rest of the book makes up for it. Trust me and read it.

A good idea, but unbelievable
As a school assignment, I had to read a book and write a report on it. As I looked through the fiction shelf in our school library, "The Lottery Rose" really stood out. A young, abused boy slowly learning how to love and be loved, all the while a sickly rosebush reflecting his hopes, dreams, and fears. What a great idea. I mean, what could be more touching? Unfortunately, Irene Hunt pretty much ruins the whole book. She does a terrible job with the characters and the plot, the two basic components in a story. She does a good job describing Robin, the retarded boy, but that's about it. The characters are about as unrealistic as possible. The adults are either completely perfect or completely cruel, and the 7- and 8-year-old children are one-sided and talk and act like they were about twice their age. Also, the plot is unrealistic. In a period of a year or so, Georgie goes from being scared and abused to being like a normal kid his age. Irene Hunt, being a psychologist, should know better than anyone how long the healing process takes for an abused child. As a whole, this book is pretty bad. I strongly do not recommend reading this book, no matter how tempting the back cover sounds. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

A pet lover's aid to moving day
Although we were not moving very far, I wanted to prepare my 3 year old with a book to which she could relate. Because we are animal lovers with a dog like Boomer, this book helped my child understand what was going on in her life. The book is told through a narrator in the dog's point of view. The illustrations are also at "dog-eye level." I looked at other books, but this one met my needs the most, because it tells the tale in a vantage point similar to my child's. My daughter is too young to really resist moving, but she didnt' "get" the idea that everything she owned would be coming with us and that the new house would be just as good if not better than the old. Boomer tells the story from a confused beginning to a happy ending once he discovers his new house has wonderful things for him to do and new friends to make. I highly recommend this book to help your little one's moving day transition.

Great book for little kids!
This book is a wonderful book about a golden retriever who know's it will not be a regular day! More and More boxes appear in the house,and less and less things appear in the house and are put in moving vans! Will Boomer like his new home? This is a great book to read to kids who are moving and don't wanna leave!

Boomer's Big Day
This is a wonderful book for those who love dogs and children. The illustrations are clear and detailed showing many household items. My 1 year old son has this book with him at EVERY meal, and spends several minutes on each page, identifying each item. It is a wonderful learning tool.

A great book to read to kids.
This is a great book to read to kids. It has a great story, wonderful pictures with clarity for a 1 yr old, yet enough detail that my 3 yr old still loves it every time. If you like dogs, you'll love this, and if you are going through a move, this book is a must for young kids. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

my baby loves this cloth book
My six-month-old son loves this book.It is a wonderful stroller toy because it keeps him occupied for a long time.The cover is soft and snuggly; plus, the baby bird can be put in different little pockets throughout the book--so my two-year-old daughter loves to "read" this book to the baby.

One caveat: because it's so plush we let our son play with it in his crib and he got the string loosely wrapped around his neck.He's fine, and he still loves the book, but I certainly wouldn't let him play with it unsupervised again. ... Read more

Book Description

Who in his right mind wants to talk to a shrink? I don't want to talk about anything. I don't want to feel anything, taste anything ... or anything. The lyrics "just dying to die" run around in my brain day and night...

Fifteen-year-old Sam is in pain. He comes to the therapist's office unwillingly, angry, depressed, and filled with guilt over his own self-destructive behavior. He is being drawn deeper and deeper into a black hole of despair from which he sees no way out.

The Road Back

This is the Real-life story of Sam's Recovery, told from tapes of his therapy sessions. It tells what drove him to leave home, how he survived on the street, and why he was desperate to escape from the brutality of the gang that had become his "family" and from the torment of his own self-loathing. For every teen who has experienced the pain and loneliness of a no-way-out darkness, and for all those who love them, here is the light that can lead the way back.

Reviews (22)

It was ok
This was a good book, but it was kind of boring to me. All Sammy did throughout the book was go to a phsychiatrist's office. This book took me a very long time to read, not because I didn't like it but because it took place in a shrink's office. I didn't like how it was just recordings edited and put onto a piece of paper. I did like this book at the end, it's just that the beggining was hard to get into.

my reading book
almost lost is a true story of an anonymous teenagers life on the streets. I like this book because I like to read books that are true like this book and the book named what happened to nancy. Almost lost is the real life story of a boy named Samuel. It tells what drove him to leave home, how hesurvived in the street, and why he was desperate to scape from the brutality of the gang that had become his family.

No.
This book was terribly hard to follow... i dont know if its just me but the whole therepy tape style just wasnt working for me. Plus... it didnt seem real... the realationship between sammy and the lady just sounded so... fake and... like a cheesy script or something. i didnt really like the book.

Could Be Better
This book seems very interesting at first glance. But once you start reading it you start to realise how very unrealistic it is, this does NOT seem like it is a true story. It's hard to believe that Sammy comes in depressed and angry the first day yet, seems excited and very willing to get over his problems the next. I was VERY disappointed with this book, the only thing that's the least bit interesting about it, is the story about Sammy's past which doesn't do very much for the whole book.

ok...................but
THIS WAS OK BUT IT HAD ALOT OF OVER DRAMATISING FEATURES IN IT. I THOUGHT THE BOOK WAS VERY INTERESTING IT HAD ALOT OF MEANING TO IT BUT WAS WIERD. THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE SHRINK AND SAMMY WAS WEIRD. I DIDNT UNDERSTAND WHY SHE WOULD SAY GOOD MORNING SUNSHINNING SAMMY? THAT WAS WIERD TO ME THEY SEEMED ALOT CLOSER THAN WHAT THE BOOK TELLS. ... Read more

Book Description

"Jimmy always told me there were only two kinds of gangbangers: Those who were dead and those who were going to die. Joining a gang doesn't make sense to Jimmy..." 

Jimmy is dead now -- gunned down in front of his little sister, Mina, and his brother, Tito. And Tito is left wondering: Was Jimmy in a gang after all? Ice Breaker Joe and Lamar think so. They say Jimmy was skimming their drug money. And if the missing cash isn't returned, Tito may have to pay -- with his life.Some people go to the crossroads, but Tito's crossroads laid themselves down in front of him. His brother Jimmy sprawls on the sidewalk at his feet. Shot in a drive by. Now a gang claims that Jimmy was their Ace Man. They say Tito must take his place and resolve some unfinished business. They give him a gun. "You need protection. It's not safe on the street." What path will be choose at the crossroads? He knows one leads to safety and one to death . . . but which is which?

1997 Recommended Books for Reluctant Young Readers (ALA)
1997 Books for the Teen Age (NY Public Library)
1999 Arizona Young Readers’ AwardSome people go to the crossroads, but Tito's crossroads laid themselves down in front of him. His brother Jimmy sprawls on the sidewalk at his feet. Shot in a drive by. Now a gang claims that Jimmy was their Ace Man. They say Tito must take his place and resolve some unfinished business. They give him a gun. "You need protection. It's not safe on the street." What path will be choose at the crossroads? He knows one leads to safety and one to death . . . but which is which?

1997 Recommended Books for Reluctant Young Readers (ALA)
1997 Books for the Teen Age (NY Public Library)
1999 Arizona Young Readers’ Award ... Read more

Reviews (23)

Drive By review
This book is about two brothers and a sister walking home from a birthday party and a blue car pulls up to Jimmy (older brother) and shots Jimmy with a gun and kills him. His brother Tito and 5-year-old sister Mina were watching it happen. Jimmy did not tell anyone that he was in a gang, and the people in the blue car were gangbangers. They killed a Jimmy because he taking cash from them. Jimmy wanted his brother, his sister, and his mom a better place to live in. When Tito was walking home from school there was people in his house spay painting the walls and Tito and his sister and mother was forced out of their house. The gangbangers told Tito that they want what Jimmy took from them. Tito at first did not know what they were talking about, till he was in bed that night and remember that Jimmy told him that where was a spot under the house where he would go and put thing that are important to him there. Tito went under the house and saw a box. He opens it and there was money to the top of the box. There was a letter to Tito from his brother saying:
Well littler brother, if you're reading this, I guess you've been to my funeral.
Probably my homies found out I was skimming cash and laid me down, but who knows? I didn't lie when I told you gangsters are either dead or going to be. Banging was fun at first when I was kicking back with my homies. But then it seemed like all we did was go to funerals and cause more. I thought if I could get enough money, I could take you and Mina and Mom someplace safe. Sorry I didn't get you there. But you can get there, Tito. Be strong. Use the money. Make your life sing.

A person I would tell to read this book is a person that likes to read books on gangs. It tells you how a gang member was taking money from them and the gang member find out and they killed him.

"Drive By" was a nice book to read but it was not one of my favorite book because it didn't really have a plot to it. At some parts of the books it was very interesting to read because it was like life was in a gang.

Drive By
I just finished reading the book Drive By.This book was very interesting.The reason I liked this book was because it uses the same acsent as me and my friends do.I recomend this book for someone who lives in a tough neighbrhood like me, and don't realy like reading boring books.This book takes place in Los Angeles where theres a lot of gangs and drive by's.When you read the first page of this book your not gonna want to stop.

*drive-by*
Bang,Bang!!! Thats, the last thing Tito, the main charecter, heard, when his brother jimmy was shot and killed on the streets of L.A. With Jimmy gone, hif family is in danger because he has somthing the gangbangers want and only Jimmy and Tito know there is money for them. Now the gangbangers are after Tito and his family so they can protect their drug money. And now, Tito is trying to find the money before the gangnagers do.
If u like suspense and action you might like this book.when i read it i could not put it down. Every suspensful page kept me from putting down this very good book.

Drive-By a review by Scott
Has anyone in your family been a victim of a drive-by? In the book Drive-By, by Lynne Ewing, the threesome, which included Kelly, Gus, and Jimmy went on a walk one day. Well, when they're walking something happens. Something that's going to rock their world! Jimmy is walking in the street, which a car pulls up next to Jimmy. He starts talking to the men in the car. Kelly's brother named Gus tells them to get behind the tree. Then Kelly and Gus see flashes and hear loud gunshots like thunder. They thought it was their imagination or something else. They look from behind the tree and see blood fly and Jimmy fall to the ground. The car screeches off.
Kelly hopes she is dreaming. She just witnessed some very sick-minded animals at work. She can only hope that Jimmy was playing a joke and in the car were some of Jimmy's friends. She hopes this was a set-up and a planned joke, but her heart sank and couldn't bear the pain. She couldn't change the truth or take anything back. Maybe, just maybe there's a way for a miracle to happen. Maybe Jimmy was still alive