Breath to Breath

February 1, 2016

Gr 10 Up-William Stout, a recent transplant from Kansas, is hoping his move to California will be the fresh start he needs. After his grandfather passes from cancer, he moves to California to live with his estranged father. The 17-year-old William remembers very little of his parents, yet something about his new neighborhood seems oddly familiar, something that threatens to trigger the violent tendencies he seeks to repress. Counseling, a potential girlfriend, a new job, and a starting spot on the school football team help him manage his anger. However, run-ins with a mysterious child lead William to discover hidden talents and pieces of his past that threaten to unravel the new life he has created. Although he does not know the child, he is plagued by the unshakable feeling that the child is suffering horrific abuse, and he is determined to help. Written in short, impactful poetic prose, this is a gut-wrenching novel that manages to be dark and hopeful. It is a suspenseful mystery with a revelation that is unexpectedly sad and heartbreaking. VERDICT A tough choice for sensitive readers, this is recommended for older, mature teens.-Tamela Chambers, Chicago Public Schools, IL

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