Chance Murphy and the Battle of Morganville
by Josh P. McClary
Published by Kedzie Press
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Reviewed by Nicole M. Boals
Chance Murphy is a thirteen-year-old boy growing up in Indiana. He lost an eye a few years back to a BB gun incident. His parents are divorced and his sister is mentally handicapped. His best friend lives next door, but so does his worst enemy. His father owns that local movie theatre and his mother is a high-powered lawyer. He goes through crushes, hatred, love, and pain in several ups and downs throughout the year or so that the story covers.
I have never known a kid that seems this messed up. He has family problems, friend issues, religious compunctions, and enough school issues to land him in detention for life. I often questioned his sanity and wondered if physiological intervention was needed. However, I cracked up at his antics and even remembered playing some of the games he loves (who can forget the weeks of waiting to see if the laser tag game was under the Christmas tree?).
That was what made this book such a great read. I felt like I not only knew Chance, but I was part of his life. The descriptive language brought everything to life. From the packed movie theatre that would aggravate anyone, to the nail-biting basketball game, you feel as all five of your senses are engaged. I was with Chance life like a fly on the wall while he went through his day-to-day life. You didn't always like him, but that just contributed to making him feel even more real.
Even though the Chance character was a little over the top (I really hope most thirteen-year-olds don't have SO many issues), you grew attached to him almost immediately and wanted him to pull through everything unscathed.
Chance Murphy's life is like a rollercoaster ride that throws more then one curve ball and will make you think a lot about your own life. It brings situations alive that will make you question how you would feel and react, no matter what your age.
Armchair Interviews says: Maybe you know a Chance Murphy in your life.
Author's Web site: http:/www.joshpmcclary.com