August 20, 2003

Whale Talk by Chris Crutcher

T.J. witnesses a classmate being beaten up by a football player because he is wearing his dead brother's letterman's jacket. In retaliation, T.J. takes on the athletic establishment at his high school by forming a swim team comprised of unlikely misfits - all to earn them letterman's jackets. This story is much deeper than its sports theme. It is a story of humanity and inhumanity at its most touching level. I highly recommend this book to all readers, both adult and students. For more mature readers as it contains some strong language and mature themes.
Reed Reads Score: 5