(3) YA Blacktop series. Toni is one "tough-ass chick," who loves to play basketball but struggles to control her temper. Her volatile personality leads her to argue and lash out violently, a habit that threatens her whole team. Still, older reluctant readers for whom this series (Justin) is geared will warm to Toni's good intentions and her ability to make connections through basketball.

Reviewer: Kristy Pasquariello

(3) YA Blacktop series. This gritty series-starter follows African American fifteen-year-old Justin through Oakland, where he and friends learn to scheme and swindle; the story culminates in a basketball showdown with a rival neighborhood. The book contains true-to-life flawed characters--including adults such as Justin's alcoholic father--who struggle to make good choices. Accessible prose (with profanity) and fast-paced action make this suited to older reluctant readers.

Reviewer: Lauren Causey