This book kicks off right away with a variety of viewpoints, highlighting the negative impact of stereotypes on young men of color. When the principal of Urban Promise is found murdered, three students are immediately identified as suspects. Rumors abound, and readers get drawn in as outsiders, assessing these young men through the eyes of uninformed and even hostile witnesses.
As the story unfolds, we learn more and more about the home lives, love lives, and aspirations of each of the three suspects. Ramon, Trey, and J.B. are dealing with a lot and reacting like we should expect teenagers to react. The book shows how they draw on their own strengths but, most importantly, on the members of their community, working together to solve the mystery, clear their names, and fulfill their true promise, undefined by the school or its principal.
I thought this was an important story about prejudice and solidarity, all wrapped up in an intriguing murder mystery. Great for middle and young adult readers.
As the story unfolds, we learn more and more about the home lives, love lives, and aspirations of each of the three suspects. Ramon, Trey, and J.B. are dealing with a lot and reacting like we should expect teenagers to react. The book shows how they draw on their own strengths but, most importantly, on the members of their community, working together to solve the mystery, clear their names, and fulfill their true promise, undefined by the school or its principal.
I thought this was an important story about prejudice and solidarity, all wrapped up in an intriguing murder mystery. Great for middle and young adult readers.