A fine young adult novel, especially if you happen to teach in an inner-city school.

00014088

Great book and storyline. I really enjoyed the plot to the story but didn't completely enjoy how the ending was abrupt. I know this is a prequel to the next story so i was excited to read about it even more. I enjoyed how the tone of the characters was consistent to their environment and lifestyle. They used vocabulary consistent to someone experiencing gang violence. ( )

Growing up in a place where gang violence is almost unheard of, I really liked this book. It gave me a look into what its like in the life of someone who got involved with gang violence at such a young age and the effects that it can have on not only the child, but the whole family. ( )

I somewhat like this book; it pushes readers about achievement no matter the location. To clear out, Martin and his mother move to a different area, which means attending a new High School. Martin, the main character, fears entering the new environment and misses his old town and friends. At the end, he ends up achieving and making progress at the High School' he even got himself a lady. The message of the story is to it takes some time to adjust to a new setting. ( )