The Schoolboy
by Tony Rosa
Published by Ingram Book Group
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Reviewed by Caron Smith
At first glance, The Schoolboy appears to be a fun read about fourteen-year-old Sam Parma, who agrees to play in a golf tournament at his mother's firm urging. But, early on, the reader discovers that The Schoolboy is not simply a tale of young boys participating in a golf tournament. Through their actions, the boys are quickly separated into two groups. A lifetime of moral lessons becomes emphatically clear as Sam discovers that the fears and challenges he faces during the tournament become important steppingstones to his future.
This is Sam's story, but the secondary characters are vividly written and each one plays a special part and remains true to their individual traits throughout the entire book.
Matthew Parma is Sam's little brother and stays in the background throughout most the book. Buzzy Odom and Chad Ashworth, Jr. are lifetime friends, having lived across the street from each other for years. Mark Crowe is an older youth who portrays the tough-guy/bully image.
Buzzy is looking for something more stimulating in his life than playing a boring game of golf with his best friend, Chad. He finds excitement with his new pal, Mark, who is the perfect example of all the things Buzzy has secretly yearned for but has been afraid to pursue.
When Mark notices that his outrageous antics impress Buzzy, Mark continually pushes the button a little harder, hoping to win more of the younger boy's approval--even to the point of possibly causing injury to an innocent victim.
Sam and Chad form an instant bond that continues throughout the entire book. They are disappointed as Buzzy and Mark move forward with total lack of responsibility for their actions.
Sam learns that honesty is an important virtue. He is appalled by Mark and Buzzy's actions and learns that there is more to life than winning or losing a golf tournament.
I recommend this book for elementary through middle-school students.
Armchair Interviews says: The author's unique style will make any reader want to turn the pages.