René Saldaña, Jr.

I just put down the book for the second time in my life and I'm happy to say that my thoughts on it have changed for the better. Being YA lit, something I hardly touch, this book shows that there are two versions of the Valley: The one in which we live in and the one we remember living in. René Saldaña, Jr. ventures into both. Leaving us nostalgic for our lost innocence, but appreciating the course of events that brought us here.

It's a joy to read for both adults and teens alike. Each show more powerful story reminds us that if we should trip and fall in our journey into adulthood, the world does allow second chances. All we have to is pick ourselves up, dust off our clothes and never lose our way. show less

What's appealing about this book is the depiction of true friendship and love between two best friends who are boys. These are "guy guys" who would never say aloud "I love you" but they genuinely have each other's backs and appreciate that about each other. Barry is rightfully angry that Alby has used him in a boxing/gambling scheme but both find a way to redeem the friendship they need so much. A great book for guys that expresses the emotions they feel for a close friend but don't have the show more words or ability to say it. show less

I enjoyed reading this coming-of-age story about a young boy named Rey. Half of his family lives in Texas and the other half lives in Mexico. As Rey grows up, he is expected to follow in his father's footsteps, but he is more interested in becoming his own person. Rey learns to appreciate his family and the life they have given him. The message behind this story is that you should always appreciate your culture and heritage because it is a part of who you are. Many middle school students, show more especially ones who have family in other countries, can relate to this story because it shows that figuring out your identity when you're young is not always easy. Additionally, I liked how this book was split into two different parts and it can be read as a whole or separately. show less

Reviewed by Sally Kruger, aka "Readingjunky" for TeensReadToo.com

THE WHOLE SKY FULL OF STARS is a story about the strong bonds of friendship. Through the experience of the main characters readers will learn that true friendship can survive.

Barry and Alby have been friends against all odds. Barry's father's recent death from cancer has put a huge financial strain on life for him and his mother. They never had much before and now that is stretched even thinner. Alby, on the other hand, doesn't show more need to worry about cash. His dad is a successful car dealer and his mom is a lawyer. Yet, the two boys have been friends since the first grade.

Alby finds himself in some trouble involving his gambling debts. With the help of his friend Barry's boxing skills, he hopes to concoct a scheme to take care of both the boys' needs. The Man o' Might fighting contest offers a chance for Alby to win what he owes in gambling debts, and, hopefully, provide some financial relief for Barry and his mom.

At first reluctant to get involved, Barry finds that preparing for the fight helps him remember the good times with his dad. They used to spend hours together working out on the bag and down at the gym. When they weren't boxing, they were working on an old 1964 Ford Galaxie that Barry might someday drive to the prom.

Will Alby's crazy scheme placing side bets on Barry's boxing abilities have what it takes to ruin their friendship? Rene Saldana, Jr. provides the answer in this fast-paced read that is sure to please even reluctant middle grade boys. show less