Also Known as Rowan Pohi is a rare treat ~ a book aimed at adolescent boys that isn't about magic or sports, yet still manages to be a fun, absorbing read.
It all started out innocently enough. Three friends hanging out at IHOP, making fun of the private school kids at the next table. Bobby Steele and his two best friends decided that they could make up someone that could get into Whitestone Academy, just like those other snobby kids. It was just a joke right?
But here's what isn't a joke. Bobby's school is not exactly the best, and thanks to budget cuts, there will be no football to play next year. Bobby's mother has been gone for over a year now, leaving him to pick up the slack with his little brother Cody. And nobody ever jokes about the reasons his mom left.
So when this one joke happens to pan out - and their creation, Rowan Pohi is accepted at the prestegious Whitestone Academy, what would be the harm in checking it out? Bobby is soon thrown into a whole new world of challenging academics, football practice, wealthy classmates, oh and, keeping up with the lie that is Rowan Pohi. While at first reinventing himself seems like the perfect plan. But, life soon catches up with him and he has to decide which life he wants to keep, Bobby Steele or Rowan Pohi?
Ralph Fletcher has definitely captured the voice of an adolecent guy. In this slim novel, he is able to explore many questions like - Who are my real friends? What kind of person do I want to be? and How do you mend broken relationships with family?
I absolutely enjoyed reading Bobby's story and look forward to more YA from the author in the future!
~Jennifer Yuenger
Books to the Ceiling |
Also Known as Rowan Pohi, by Ralph Fletcher is a perfect blend of humor and story line. The main character is far from shallow. He lives in the real world, faced with problems like all teens. His dream of escaping this world is a fantasy, but ingeniously he attempts to make a new life for himself. Unfortunately, reality and fantasy always collide, but Bobby Steele will give inspiration to all teens who decide to follow his journey. He is a strong character who does not need profanity or violence to show his strength. His is pure in his beliefs, even when he decides to skirt the rules. Great read, very positive and hopeful. This book will definitely fly off the shelves!
~ Laurence Gander
I am a Middle School librarian. I have posted this review on my webpage Woodcliff Lake
|
