Description
Book SynopsisAn action-packed basketball series from author LJ Alonge set on the courts of Oakland, CA.Justin has a list of goals stashed under his mattress. Number 1 is figure out life plans. Number 5 is earn Zen Master rating in WoW. Nowhere on that list is play the crew from Ghosttown, but that''s the type of trouble that always seems to finds him.
The debut title from LJ Alonge''s new basketball series pulses with action on and off the court. With wit, humor, and honesty,
Justin unfolds over one hot summer.
Trade Review"A winning combination of interest and approachability. Debut author Alonge writes with nimbleness and insight, and Justin’s narration is leavened with shrewd, rueful observations and quick turns of phrase." (
Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books, *STARRED REVIEW*) “The brief novel is both a satisfying basketball story and an African-American boy's first-person account of finding his way in the world... debut author Alonge plays the game just right.” (
Kirkus Reviews)“A coming-of-age story with hard edges and heart.” (
Publisher’s Weekly)
"This gritty series-starter follows African American fifteen-year-old Justin through Oakland, where he and friends learn to scheme and swindle... Accessible prose (with profanity) and fast-paced action make this suited to older reluctant readers."
(Horn Book Guide Reviews)
