Common Sense Media Review
By Joe Applegate
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Swaggering but sentimental story about loyalty.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 12+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
Fifteen-year-old Allen Brooks, nicknamed Ali for his boxing skill, befriends two new kids on his block in Brooklyn's tough Bed-Stuy neighborhood. The younger of the two has Tourette's syndrome, which embarrasses his older brother to the point of lashing out. After Ali comes to his new friend's rescue at a party, out-boxing two thugs, they put out the word that they will take revenge. Will Ali's estranged dad step in to save his son? The conclusion gives Ali "one of the best days of my life."
Is It Any Good?
Although some young readers will be comfortable with the cartoonish characters, others may be disappointed when the story's climax takes place offstage and any chance for a big ending goes poof. This debut novel also rides high on the shoulders of cliche: the mom who works two jobs and reigns with tough love, the whip-smart little sis who gives everyone a cute nickname (the neighbor boys are Needles and Noodles). Details about life in tough central Brooklyn are well played, though.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how, in Bed-Stuy, the barbershop is an old-fashioned chat room. Are there any comparable gathering spots in your neighborhood? How does it differ from an online forum?
Kendall makes his living doing odd jobs for people at half-price. What does that say about Bed-Stuy?
Why does it feel good to have a nickname that you like?
Book Details
- Author :
- Genre : Coming of Age
- Topics : Adventures , Family Stories ( Siblings ) , Friendship
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Atheneum
- Publication date : January 7, 2014
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 12 - 17
- Number of pages : 240
- Available on : Nook, Hardback, Kindle
- Last updated : October 1, 2025
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