Crutcher uses dark humor and self-deprecation effectively to avoid maudlin situations, and teens will appreciate the respectful tone of the work.- Chris Shoemaker, New York Public Library Some discussion of sexual molestation and child abuse is present in the text, but is not graphic or overwhelming in its depiction. Rudy McCoy, a former priest and child molester, evokes both compassion and revulsion through his confession of guilt and struggle to avoid hurting another child reflecting Ben's secret-keeping behavior, McCoy serves as a foil for the destructive impact secrets can have. Secondary characters add humor and balance, though the government teacher's voice occasionally veers too far toward that of a right-wing pundit. Emotionally spare but deeply touching, the relationship between Ben and his brother will resonate with many readers, while others may find the several strong father figures comforting.

Crutcher brings his signature blend of sports action and human emotion to this powerful novel. However, Ben's illness slowly exacts its toll on him, and he begins to realize the consequences of keeping his condition hidden. Government teacher, and tries out for football. Free from long-term consequences, he connects with his crush, frustrates his biased U.S. Grade 9 Up-After being diagnosed with an aggressive form of leukemia, 18-year-old Ben Wolf elects to forgo treatment and keep his illness secret from his family and friends in an attempt to have a 'normal' senior year at his small Idaho high school. If you have additional suggestions for materials that might be helpful, let CC''s assistant Kelly know, and she'll add them to the page ASAP.

And if he's scheduled to be in your area, an in-person response could be an option.

Written and video responses for school board meetings are always possible. Chris is always available for newpaper, radio and television interviews. But if you have additional needs or requests, please let us know. Years of experience have taught him how to assist educators in defending their curriculum choices, and those defense materials are available here. When that happens, Chris Crutcher is on their side.

When that happens, those librarians and teachers are not alone. Instead of trusting the well trained experts hired by their school boards - librarians and teachers with years of academic training behind every literary selection they make - these people challenge the use of fictional stories. From time to time, the works of Chris Crutcher are challenged by individuals and organizations opposed to the use of power stories in public education.

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