A Name Earned

Gr 6–10—Fans of sports fiction, specifically about basketball, will find this fast-paced novel highly appealing. Bobby Byington is a new player on his high school basketball team, but with the encouragement given by Coach Robinson, he's sure to have a great year. However, when his friend Lloyd's family turmoil dredges up bad memories, Bobby knows he must step in and help out. Themes of teamwork, racism, alcoholism and abuse come together in this quick-moving story about families overcoming serious issues. The story delves into these issues with straightforward language and a focus on the whole family. While the this third entry in Tingle's series focuses on Bobby and his friends, there is an emphasis on community introduced through his Choctaw First Nations heritage. Clear language and a fast pace make this a great choice for reluctant readers.