Hands

 

My Thoughts:

This book for middle level males is a great choice for struggling male readers because Maldonado, a teacher himself,  really understands the young, urban male voice. This is an engaging, fast read. It is both poetic and complex in its simplicity. When students need a fast read for SURF (silent uninterrupted reading for fun), this is a great book that can pull reluctant readers in for those short 10 minute stints in class. Students will want to read more than just their ten minutes, but this will be a sought after read. The chapters are short, about 2-5 pages per chapter, and the dialogue pushes the action along.

The protagonist Trev has always been told that he has "promise" but he has his own self-inflicted promises to keep that put extra responsibility on him. He really cannot plan for the future when his present is so uncertain. Readers will root for Trev and the people who step forward for him. 

From the Publisher:

Trev would do anything to protect his mom and sisters, especially from his stepdad. But his stepdad’s return stresses Trev—because when he left, he threatened Trev’s mom. Rather than live scared, Trev takes matters into his own hands, literally. He starts learning to box to handle his stepdad. But everyone isn’t a fan of his plan, because Trev’s a talented artist, and his hands could actually help him build a better future. And they’re letting him know. But their advice for some distant future feels useless in his reality right now. Ultimately, Trev knows his future is in his hands, and his hands are his own, and he has to choose how to use them.

Publication Information:

Author: Torrey Maldonado

Publisher: Nancy Paulsen Books (January 24, 2023)

Grade Level: 5-6