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Brandon is the biggest and toughest kid in his small-town school. He is feared as a bully, but he only pretends to be "dumb as a bag of hammers," so he can learn as much as possible about the people around him. When Leon, his sister Winnie, and their lively little brother Sam, arrive in Kingsville, they are the only black people in town. Everyone is curious about them—where they came from, what their parents do—but when Brandon discovers the truth about their situation, he decides to do what he can to protect them from harm.
Brandon is the biggest and toughest kid in his small-town school. He is feared as a bully, but he only pretends to be "dumb as a bag of hammers," so he can learn as much as possible about the people around him. When Leon, his sister Winnie, and their lively little brother Sam, arrive in Kingsville, they are the only black people in town. Everyone is curious about them—where they came from, what their parents do—but when Brandon discovers the truth about their situation, he decides to do what he can to protect them from harm.
Due to publisher restrictions the library cannot purchase additional copies of this title, and we apologize if there is a long waiting list. Be sure to check for other copies, because there may be other editions available.
Due to publisher restrictions the library cannot purchase additional copies of this title, and we apologize if there is a long waiting list. Be sure to check for other copies, because there may be other editions available.
About the Author-
Rene Schmidt always wanted to write books, but only got Cs in high school. He has traveled to many countries and worked as a miner, taxi and truck driver, construction worker and ship's crew. He eventually entered university where he discovered the creative writing department. Now he is a father and teacher in Brighton, Ontario, encouraging boys to read and write.
Reviews-
February 1, 2009 Gr 7-9-Eighth-grader Brandon Clifford has the reputation of being a troublemaker in school, but he's something of a knight-errant. He befriends the only black family in the small town of Kingsville, Ontario, helps to evacuate a wrecked train, and stands up to the class bully. When he finds out that Leon, Winnie, and Sam George have managed to stay together only by concealing from the authorities that they are parentless, Brandon helps them to keep their secret and even gets a job so that he can anonymously give them money. When their situation finally comes to light, Brandon attempts to help them evade Children's Aid workers, but they are eventually apprehended. All ends well, however, as the family court makes an exception and allows the children to remain together, with supervision and government assistance. While some incidents are not well-integrated into the plot and there is a certain glorification of adolescent male violence, this first novel has a lot going for it. It is the kind of book that might well appeal to boys who are having trouble in school, but trying to find other ways to make a difference in the world. The author's simple, unadorned style makes it a good choice for reluctant readers."Richard Luzer, Fair Haven Union High School, VT"
Copyright 2009 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.
VOYA
In his funny and touching novel, Schmidt thoughtfully crafts characters to whom readers will relate. The book's tone is frank when dealing with serious issues yet retains a certain innocence.
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