The STars Beneath Our Feet

Reviewed by: Kristin Taylor - Biddeford High School, Biddeford, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: January 7, 2018

Review

This debut novel from the author shows the realism of what life is like for the youth in the projects of multicultural Harlem.

Lolly, the main character is still reeling from the shooting death of his older brother and his coping mechanism is building with Legos. In comes Big Rose, who doesn't communicate with others at the after-school program that she and Lolly attend. Somewhere along the story, the two of them work together to build an "alien community of Harmonee". But, the world outside of the safety of the after-school program is challenging and violent with choices that Lolly has to make. Recommended for middle school grades. The story is believable and has a wonderful theme of hope and aspiration; a journey of self-discovery and self-worth along with being able to recognize the paths you chose make all the difference in the world.

Overall Book Score: very good