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School Library Journal
Reviewed on July 1, 2012 | Grades 5-up
Gr 6–8—Socko Starr's summer has begun on an ominous note. He and his friend Damien have just put themselves in the path of the local gang leader. Then his mother shocks everyone with a surprise announcement that the family is relocating to a subdivision far away from their inner-city apartment complex. His great-grandfather, aka the General, whom Socko has never me...Log In or Sign Up to Read More
Horn Book Guide
Reviewed on January 1, 2012
When his estranged great-grandfather offers to buy Socko's mom a suburban house--if they become his caretakers--she jumps a...Log In or Sign Up to Read More
Junior Library Guild
Reviewed on June 1, 2012
A fast-moving, absorbing novel that has real-world relevance. With the recent economic collapse as a backdrop, both the housing crisis and unemployment are major plot points. The book also touches on many enduring hot-button issues—including gangs, vandalism, and homelessness. Readers will sympathize with and relate to the well-developed, complex characters—whether it’s Socko, heartbroken at leaving his best frie...Log In or Sign Up to Read More