Language: G; (0 swears 0 'f's) Mature Content: G; Violence: PG - bullying
BUYING ADVISORY: MS - ADVISABLE
AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE
11yo Isaac and Marco are best friends - have been since Kindergarten. They both have difficult relationships with their dads, live next door to each other and are starting middle school together - but not in the same classes. Isaac is tall and athletic - he a basketball star, but studying isn't his strength. Marco is probably the shortest kid in the 6th grade. He is in the gifted classes, so the only class they have together is PE. When Marco thinks he might get some attention from his father if he can make the basketball team, their friendship is tested, as Marco needs Isaac to teach him how to play, but Isaac has troubles of his own.
I liked that each boy had a complicated life - like most middle schoolers I suppose. Falling Short looks at divorce, alcoholismism, abandonment, bullies, and anxiety. The mom's (and abuelita) were stable and supportive, and I liked that there were good friends who helped balance and control the bullies. Some pretty good basketball action, too.
Lisa Librarian
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