January 1, 2006
Gr 9 Up -Since the death of his father seven years ago, 17-year-old Rooster has developed an anti-authority attitude. The only subject he enjoys is writing. He is given one last chance to earn a diploma when his principal appoints him to mentor the -Strikers, - a bowling team made up of four special-needs adults. Their caregiver would like them to qualify for the Special Olympics, but they lack the discipline to succeed. Not only is Rooster hesitant to lead the group, but he is also paired up with the principal's bossy, straight-A daughter, Elma, who challenges everything he does. He gradually earns the group's trust, so the sudden death of a teammate affects him more than he expected. When the bowlers achieve their goal, his job is over. Then he is given an assignment to write about the Strikers, tries his hand at it, and finds satisfaction. This project and revelations about his father's love of reading help Rooster find peace within himself. Now, instead of burying his memories, he has found a way to connect with and honor them. Rooster is a believable young man who is barely going through the motions of life. With spot-on dialogue and riotous arguments among the Strikers, this is a smart story peppered with mature situations." -Karen Hoth, Marathon Middle/High School, FL"
Copyright 2006 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.