Justin #1

“A winning combination of interest and approachability. Debut author Alonge writes with nimbleness and insight, and Justin’s narration is leavened with shrewd, rueful observations and quick turns of phrase.”—Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books, starred review

“The brief novel is both a satisfying basketball story and an African-American boy’s first-person account of finding his way in the world … debut author Alonge plays the game just right.”—Kirkus Reviews

“A coming-of-age story with hard edges and heart.”—Publishers Weekly

“This gritty series-starter follows African American fifteen-year-old Justin through Oakland, where he and friends learn to scheme and swindle … Accessible prose (with profanity) and fast-paced action make this suited to older reluctant readers.”—Horn Book Guide Reviews

LJ Alonge has played pick-up basketball in Oakland, Los Angeles, New York, Kenya, South Africa and Australia. Basketball’s always helped him learn about his community, settle conflicts, and make friends from all walks of life. He’s never intimidated by the guy wearing a headband and arm sleeve; those guys usually aren’t very good. As a kid, he dreamed of dunking from the free throw line. Now, his favorite thing to do is make bank shots. Don’t forget to call “bank!”

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