Gr 8-Up A methodical start takes readers into the world of young thieves Demi and Baz. When Demi steals a precious ring from Senora Dolucca, the police captain's wife, the corrupt politics of the barrio and indeed the social structure of this nameless, timeless city begin to shift, resulting in complete upheaval. The teens are caught in the whirlwind. Baz has always trusted their den mother, Fay, but she feels betrayed when the woman sends Raoul to "the Mountain." Baz begins to question the foundation of her life. Her awareness growsnot only of the corruption at all levels of society, but also of the psychological landscape, how she and the other children are caught in the web by their need for affection, approval, and the idea of family. Demi appears to be unaware of what's going on, so it's up to Baz to find a way to get Raoul off the mountain and leave the barrio with as much of her family intact as she can manage. While not a fast read, the cover and the content will appeal to urban teens, particularly those reading on grade level or above. Fans of Brian James's "Thief" (Scholastic, 2008) and readers looking for a more in-depth story will find it here."Amy Cheney, Alameda County Library, Oakland, CA" Copyright 2010 Media Source Inc.
Baz and Demi are members of a child pickpocket gang led by demanding mother-substitute Fay. After stealing from a dishonest police captain, they discover betrayal and corruption and must escape the slum they call home. Readers might skim the dense narration in order to keep up with the story's action.
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