Synopsis
Dreams always have a price
Will can see his future stretch out before him. It's as clear as the plains that lead to La Junta and the first-place winnings at the rodeo. He will become a man, a cowboy with a life of his own. But his twin brother, Denny, follows, bringing with him the memory of that small white scar. Ahead lies adventure; behind, responsibility. And on the road between, Will and Denny will travel together—brothers united by blood.
Hazel Buys - Children's Literature
In 1940, on a ranch in Colorado, two boys come of age. The transition from adolescence into young manhood for the 15-year-old twins, one of whom is mentally retarded, is told with poignant honesty. Will yearns to separate himself from his more limited brother, Denny. Against his father's wishes, he sets out to ride to La Junta to compete in a rodeo. He is sure that he will win, both prizes and his freedom—freedom from a life spent looking after Denny. But Denny follows Will, reminding him that they are blood brothers, symbolized by a small white scar each carries on a finger. Will struggles with the pull of adventure, independence, and being on his own, which requires that he abandon the responsibility of looking after his brother. Where does true adulthood lie? Unexpectedly a family friend provides a solution and a lesson in alternatives. This novel is haunting and well-plotted. Each brother's voice rings true. The story appears simple but its message is powerful and universal. How can we be both our brother's keeper and true to ourselves? 2006, Joanna Cotler Books/HarperCollins Publishers, and Ages 10 up.