YALSA Quick Picks for Reluctant Young Adult Readers List, 2010 nominee
White Pine nominee 2010
Michael Grove was sixteen years old when he was convicted for the murder of Lisa Conroy, the girlfriend he loved very much. The circumstances surrounding her final hours attract considerable media attention, especially because Michael and Lisa had sex just prior to her death. A public outcry against light penalties for young offenders ensures Michael is tried as an adult; he receives a harsh and severe penalty. Six months into his imprisonment, the true murderer confesses. Michael is released but quickly finds that the stigma of imprisonment and the (wrongful) rap for murder is not an easy thing to escape out on the streets.
Reviews:
"The Book of Michael will have great appeal for young adult readers, both male and female. Tension and emotion are the cornerstones of what is a gripping psychological story. The challenging topics woven within the book seem guaranteed to spark interest and discussion among readers.
Highly Recommended."
-- CM Magazine
"Examining redemption and re-assimilation, Choyce's sober style rewards readers."
-- School Library Journal
"(Choyce's) prose is sparse, uncluttered, and thoughtful. Choyce could have taken an easy way out, but opts instead for an ending that challenges the reader."
-- The Hamilton Spectator
"Thought-provoking. It paints a vivid portrait of the tempestuousness of the teen years. . . This is a powerful book with a conclusion that haunting, controversial, and unexpected... both to the characters and the readers. It will undoubtedly leave people thinking about it for a long time to come."
-- Atlantic Books Today
"Without descending into stock problem-solving or rote moralizing, Michael's mentors provide commentary regarding acceptance and change."
-- Kirkus
Lesley Choyce once said that a voice in his head told him: "Write about what makes you feel the most uncomfortable." The award-winning author of 65 books for children, teens, and adults and a surfer, musician, publisher, broadcaster, Lesley Choyce is always a fresh voice, challenging his readers to explore new paths, try out different attitudes. Lesley surfs year-round in the North Atlantic, teaches at Dalhousie University and calls Halifax home.
Visit Lesley's web site at www.lesleychoyce.com.
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