(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