Synopsis
Patrice dreams of a first-class education, but right now she’s just got to survive the walk to school.
VOYA
Patrice has lived happily in Georgia with her grandmother until her long-absent mother shows up, convincing her to move to inner-city Chicago. Within months, Patrice's mother is sentenced to several years in prison, and Patrice is forced to relocate with an aunt in Chicago. The eighth grader excels in school, but she is shy and quiet and faces constant teasing and threats from a group of boys in her neighborhood. The leader of the group, Monty, protects her from the other boys and convinces Patrice to tutor his first grade brother. The principal of her school encourages Patrice to apply for a scholarship to a prestigious African American boarding school down South, and Monty and Patrice see hope for her beyond the dangerous streets of Chicago. This excellent first novel is quite memorable, and readers will be drawn into Patrice's quiet but determined quest for a more promising future. The book is reminiscent of Janet McDonald's work and will likely appeal to her fans. Although Monty may at times seem "too good to be true," the perseverance that he and Patrice display is inspiring and the other characters and dialogue ring true. This book is quick moving and engaging and is recommended for reluctant readers. It is a highly recommended purchase for libraries serving middle school and high school students, and this reviewer would not be surprised to see it chosen as an award winner or honor book.