Zach's Lie Book

My 12-year-old son brought this home from school last week as required reading for a class. The title summoned fears that it might be a bent book, so I had to examine it. After the first page, I was hooked! I had to find out how and what and why... and who. I felt like a detective looking for clues to piece the puzzle together at first, then on the edge of my seat as a spectator anticipating the worst but hoping for the best. My children heard me cry out in several parts in surprise and dismay as "the bad guys" found the family and made their evil plans.

The "lie" referred to in the title is that the family has to be relocated through the "witness security program" and change their identities in order to protect themselves.

I have to say that I was pleasantly surprised and now have more confidence in my son's teacher and her choice of novels for youth because I think this one's a clincher to keep their attention and they may vicariously experience life lessons through it.

My favorite character was "Sam," the custodian. He felt real, human, and trustworthy from the get go. Oh, if every young man could have a mentor like him!

First off: I'm nobodies mother.
That being said, I have some opinions on this book that contradict the things others have said.

I read this series in grade 7. Not because it was mandatory, I just picked it up at the library one day. I haven't read them since but I remember that I thought they were kick booty (because back then I couldn't say 'ass').

Let me tell you why....

That was the year that my dad got cancer. Things were really tough in my house. I just took to curling up with a book when I wanted to cry. The land of books is the best for escape, especially action stories. A straightforward tale full of bad guys and excitement is sometimes the best medicine.

Now, as a more educated reader, I can say no, it was not the most educational read. What can i say? Kids aren't the best critics. But these stories still hold a special place in my heart.