Additional information
by Paul Volponi (Author)
An unflinching story about justice, courage, and the life of one young man behind bars.
"Volponi, who taught on Rikers Island for six years, writes with an authenticity that will make readers feel Martin's fear."--Publishers Weekly "Brings to life a believable range of teachers, COs, and inmates and portrays power, hierarchies, and race relations both outside and inside the jail walls with unflinching realism."--School Library JournalSometimes hope can come out of a horrible nightmare . . . At only seventeen years of age, Martin Stokes is arrested and jailed for something he didn't mean to do. And five months later, he is still in prison on Rikers Island. Just when things couldn't get worse, Martin gets caught in a fight, and his face is slashed. Scarred forever, there is one good thing that comes from the attack: Martin is transferred to a different part of Rikers where inmates must attend high school. There he meets a teacher who gives him hope. But can Martin take the help he is offered, or will he be consumed with getting revenge on his attackers?
Author Biography
Paul Volponi is the author of the critically acclaimed young adult novel Black & White. From 1992 to 1998, he taught adolescents on Rikers Island in New York City to read and write. Mr. Volponi worked at a day treatment center like Daytop teaching students and helping them prepare for the GED. Mr. Volponi lives in New York City.
Number of Pages: 272
Dimensions: 0.73 x 8.18 x 5.56 IN
Publication Date: February 17, 2011
Accelerated Reader:
Quiz Name: Rikers High
Interest Level: Upper Grades, 9-12
Reading Level: 5.3
Point Value: 7
