Bookverdict.com

Hornby, the author of High Fidelity and About a Boy, specializes in memorable characters; in his first novel for young adults, he's created a dozy. On his 16th birthday, Sam gets an urgent text message from his ex-girlfriend. He is about to be a father, just as his own parents were teens when they had him. Seeking advice from the poster of skateboarding pro Tony Hawk in his room, Sam learns all the ways his life will change with the birth of his son. Why It Is for Us: Who knew that Tony Hawk had superpowers? As Tony whizzes Sam forward and back in time to show him what his life will hold, we experience a full range of emotions from this baffled but likable young teen. Hornby is able to evoke equal sympathy for Sam and for his parents, who know how difficult it will be to rise above this situation and build a future. [Originally published in 2007.] Copyright 2009 Media Source Inc. Copyright 2009 Media Source Inc. ...Log In or Sign Up to Read More