* Maldonados latest tells a story many middle grade kids will have an immediate personal connection to: shouldering adult problems and taking them on as their own. . . . Maldonados story moves quickly, but it packs a punch with a rapidly progressing plot and short chapters. Tweens will appreciate the tight prose. When the novel concludes, readers will feel a sense of the real community Trev has beyond his immediate family. They will also appreciate the complex supporting characters and feel hopeful for Trevs future. Those who have enjoyed Maldonados earlier books as well as fans of Jason Reynolds 'Track' series will love this one too. This is an absolute must-have for every middle grade library collection. School Library Journal, starred review
Trevor must decide what kind of person he aspires to be and what hes willing to risk for his future. The author caters to reluctant readers while exploring complex ideas surrounding community, domestic abuse, and problem-solving. Brief chapters, a fast-paced narrative, and simple language make this an accessible read. The characters feel relatable, and Trevors love for his community comes through clearly in the first-person narration. Though by the conclusion, Trevors problems arent over, that doesnt mean hes facing them alone. . . . A short story with a lasting impact. Kirkus Reviews
This intense page-turner by Maldonado (What Lane?) perceptively explores the complexities of one Black tweens experience facing difficult situations, the effect that violence has on one familys future, and the value of community when working through hardship. Publishers Weekly
This coming-of-age story is about the choices one can make and how they can affect our future, as well as the importance of family, even those who may not be related by blood. This has a powerful plot and an immersive text, and it's packaged in a short format perfect for impatient readers. Booklist
Based on Maldonados own experience of growing up in Brooklyns Red Hook Houses, this is an accessible, engaging, and heartfelt story. Horn Book
Explores the difficult topic of domestic abuse via a genuine tale that is accessible to young readers. . . . Maldonado is seasoned at writing novels in urban settings and this title stands out as one of his stronger works. Trev is a likable and strong character with a range of emotions that young readers will understand. The neighborhood comes alive . . . and features many colorful secondary characters. The book ends on a hopeful tone as Trevor realizes he has both family and a community who will stand behind him. Reminiscent of how Brubaker made the topic of sexual abuse accessible to a younger audience in Fighting Words, Maldonado does the same for domestic abuse in this book. A worthy addition to library collections. School Library Connection
Torrey taps into a kind of writing weve been in dire need of for a very long time. And with his authentic voice and whole heaping helpfuls of heart, his latest bookHandsis one that your kids are NOT going to want to miss. . . . The fact of the matter is that there is no other author out there writing with Maldonados capabilities and then consistently putting out full-length stories that are this short. . . . A great deal of the books lure lies in its complications. Trevs problem is anything but straightforward. . . . The author is being honest with the reader. Life is rarely tied up in a neat little bow, and in eschewing some kind of deus ex machina, the story is honoring the complications surrounding Trevs life. . . . Homey and touching, complicated and unafraid to deal with paradoxes . . . the final product is ultimately a strong piece Id hand to any kid willingly. Especially the kids that dont even know its what they need. Yet. Betsy Bird, A Fuse #8 Production
