Blacktop: Justin

"A winning combination of interest and approachability. Debut author Alonge writes with nimbleness and insight, and Justin’s narration is leavened with shrewd, rueful observations and quick turns of phrase." --Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books, *STARRED REVIEW*

“The brief novel is both a satisfying basketball story and an African-American boy's first-person account of finding his way in the world... debut author Alonge plays the game just right.” --Kirkus Reviews

“A coming-of-age story with hard edges and heart.” --Publisher’s Weekly

"This gritty series-starter follows African American fifteen-year-old Justin through Oakland, where he and friends learn to scheme and swindle... Accessible prose (with profanity) and fast-paced action make this suited to older reluctant readers." --Horn Book Guide Reviews