Nine Doors

August 1, 2009
Gr 7 Up-When Emery and sometimes-friend (and full-time troublemaker) Richard play "Nicky Nicky Nine Doors," the age-old game of knocking on neighbors' doors and running away before being caught, they don't anticipate that the harmless prank can have lasting consequences. Richard suggests that they put flaming bags of "stunt poo" on the doorsteps and videotape the unsuspecting participants as they extinguish the flames. However, the game veers wildly out of control. When the boys are mugged and kidnapped, they realize that they are no longer in control of the game and that all the players aren't entirely what they seem. Realistic action and dialogue, along with a fast-paced plot, will keep reluctant readers turning pages. Savvier readers may be turned off by predictable characterization and an incredible plot twist at the end, but "Doors" is a solid hi/lo choice."H. H. Henderson, Heritage Middle School, Deltona, FL"

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