The Yo-Yo Prophet

I couldn't really get into this book...just wasn't my cup of tea I guess... ( )

Yo-Yoing is a much needed balm and relaxing hobby in Calvin's life. Abandoned by his father after his mom died, he lives with his grandmother, who is growing ill and a little senile. On top of that he is puny and the target for Rozelle and her tough girl gang. But it's yo-yoing where Calvin finds peace, or at least it was until he tests out street performing and finds himself caught up by Rozelle, who insists on being his manager.

This was a light, engaging read, which had a clean weave of subplots. Calvin is an interesting character, a genuine nice guy and average high school kid with a variety of frustrations that he has to face. There's no big revelations here, no mad, high tension adventures, no overwrought romance, merely a kid dealing with real problems and overcoming them. ( )

A boy who is an outsider because of his size, his mixed heritage, and lots of angst about his parents (his mother died, his father fled), and a very ill grandmother--discovers his talent for yo-yoing can change his life. This novel was a quick read, and would be a draw for reluctant readers and middle schoolers. Calvin is in the ninth grade, a cross-over grade between middle school and high school, and he has lots of issues. The story was a bit tweaked to end well, but is very entertaining for its target audience. ( )

I enjoyed this fast-paced coming-of-age story about Calvin Layne, who goes from invisible to infamous for his yo-yo tricks and touted ability to predict the future. Calvin's struggles with his absent father, his sick grandma, and his overbearing manager all keep the conflict rolling along, and I can see this being a great fit for middle school students and reluctant readers. As a middle school teacher, I didn't find the language in this book to be objectionable for the age level, and I think the quick pacing and realistic conflicts will hold interest for most readers in that category. ( )

The Yo-yo Prophet is a coming-of-age story about a teenage boy who has to deal with a number of difficult issues in his life: his father’s absence, his grandmother’s failing health, and encounters with bullies at school. However, his life changes when he discovers that he can use his talent with a yo-yo to draw a enthusiastic crowd.

Though this novel has young-adult themes, the simple writing style will probably appeal more to middle-school children and reluctant readers. My 12-year-old daughter enjoyed this book very much. ( )