Standing Against the Wind
Author(s): Traci L. Jones
In her debut novel, Traci L. Jones presents a girl with grit she never knew she had, and a boy so inspired by her that he begins to take pride in his own abilities.
Patrice dreams of a first-class education, but right now she's just got to survive the walk to school.
Patrice Williams was happy living in Georgia with her grandmother...then her mother lured her to Chicago and ended up in jail. Living in the projects, Patrice is an easy target for everyone. Not only won't she stand up for herself, she cares about her grades—unlike her classmates. But that draws the attention of Monty Freeman, another eighth grader who asks Patrice to tutor his little brother. When Monty becomes her guardian angel, Patrice begins to think something stronger than friendship might be growing between them. Still, nothing will stop her from applying for a scholarship at prestigious Dogwood Academy—except her mother.
Winner of the 2007 Coretta Scott King-John Steptoe New Talent Award | A 2007 Bank Street - Best Children's Book of the Year
Review(s):
“The gripping story of a contemporary kid who wants to make her dreams come true.” —Booklist
“Patrice is a true hero, a child who has the inner strength to overcome roadblocks to success. Moving and thought-provoking.” —Kirkus Reviews
“Stories of hope, loyalty, and success such as this one are valuable.” —School Library Journal
“Patrice and Monty emerge as likable kids; readers can plug into their story at multiple levels.” —The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books
“This excellent first novel is quite memorable, and readers will be drawn into Patrice's quiet but determined quest for a more promising future. A highly recommended purchase for libraries serving middle and high school students.” —Voice of Youth Advocates
New Jersey Garden State Teen Book Award Master List, Coretta Scott King/John Steptoe New Talent Award - Author (2007), Tennessee Intermediate Volunteer State Book Award Master List, Long-listed New Jersey Garden State Teen Book A ML, Long-listed Oklahoma Sequoyah YA Book Award ML, Coretta Scott King/John Steptoe New Talent Award - Author, NCSS-CBC Notable Trade Book in the Field of Social Studies, Bank Street Best Children's Book of the Year, Winner NCSS-CBC NotableTrade-Soc.Stdy, Oklahoma Sequoyah Young Adult Book Award Master List, Long-listed Bank Street Best Children's Book of the Year (2007), Long-listed TN Intermed Volunt State Book Award ML, Long-listed New York Charlotte Award Master List, Long-listed Nevada YR Award Master List, Winner King/Steptoe New Talent Award - Author (2007)
ISBN: 9780312622930