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If I Grow Up

If I Grow Up
 
This edition: Hardcover, 240 pages
Ages: 12 and up
Availability: Usually ships within 2-3 days
Our Price: $16.99
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Awards and Nominations

  • CBC/NCSS Notable Social Studies Trade Book
  • Kentucky Bluegrass Award Master List

Description

In a gripping novel with a plot pulled from the headlines, Todd Strasser turns his attention to gang life in the inner-city projects. DeShawn is a teenager growing up in the projects. Most of his friends only see one choice: join up to a gang. DeShawn is smart enough to want to stay in school and make something more of himself, but when his family is starving while his friends have fancy bling and new sneakers, DeShawn is forced to decide--is his integrity more important than feeding his family?

How did you come to write this book?

I speak at many well-to-do suburban schools where young people have wonderful resources and great opportunities. In recent years I've begun to visit much poorer, inner-city schools and I am dismayed by the lack of resources and opportunity. This feels very unfair, especially in a country like ours.

Learn more about Todd Strasser