How Lamar's Bad Prank Won a Bubba-Sized Trophy

Voice. Voice, voice, voice. Lamar's voice jumps out of the page at you. I read the first half-or-so of this book out loud, and the way Lamar talks is unforgettable. Hilarious, gregarious, and goofy. It's surprising when the plot gets a little thicker. There's some seriously familial issues which need......more

4.5 stars! Books about bowling are few and far between. I picked this one up after reading Donna Gephart's recommendation in her 2018 novel "In Your Shoes." There are similarities that would make both books appeal to readers other than the obvious bowling alley aspect. Both contain main characters w......more

There aren't very many books for middle graders or teens that feature bowling, and even fewer that feature African-American kids who like to bowl. So just on that notion alone, this book is pretty unique. But it is also a fun story about two very different brothers, about friendship, and the value o......more

Crystal Allen has written a novel for middle school readers that will take them on a journey of laughter, growing up, family and neighbors, and a 13 year old's first kiss. I laughed, cried and lived with Lamar's big, bad error and imagined his mom by his side, loving him no matter what. I applauded......more

It’s not often that the four of us give a middle grade novel a five-star rating but this was just what all of us needed. Basketball, bowling, and rejection. Sibling rivalry, black culture, and redemption. It really was beautiful.......more