Just Another Hero
(Jericho Trilogy #3)

More trials are in store for the Ohio teens featured in "Battle of Jericho" and "November Blues" in this final book in Draper's trilogy. This time the focus is on Ariellewhose mother has recently married a wealthy, controlling man who treats his stepdaughter and wife more like property than familyand Kofi, a promising student whose chance for success is threatened by his prescription drug addiction. While fighting deeply personal battles during their senior year, Arielle and Kofi are drawn into school dramas concerning the inexplicable disappearance of student property as well as recurring fire drills, a prank that eventually leads to a deadly situation. As in her previous novels, Draper shows mastery in building suspense and articulating adolescent emotions and reactions (Kofi could feel Dana tense up, in the same way some people reacted to a snakewith great fear and the need to put distance between themselves and the reptile). If the shocking climax, which culminates with a school shooting, appears a little contrived, powerful final events will leave readers pondering the definition of heroism. Ages 12&up. "(June)" Copyright 2009 Publishers Weekly Used with permission.

Gr 8 & Up-During their senior year at Douglass High, tightly knit friends confront both personal struggles and unsettling school situations. Arielle, Kofi, and the rest of their group mend fences after and come to grips with a lethal hazing event from the past. But there are more problems to tackle. Arielle accidentally witnesses a repugnant bullying incident that the victim asks her to keep secret and resolutely deals with her rich and controlling stepfather. Kofi worries about his irresponsible parents, securing college funding, his pain-pill addiction, and keeping his romance intact. New mother November returns to her classes, determined to finish school. Crazy Jack hides his mental instability by appearing funny and cool. Meanwhile, someone is stealing money and personal property at school. Alternating third-person chapters zero in on Arielle and Kofi while skillfully weaving their friends, classmates, teachers, and others into the plot. The discovery of the thief near the end is surprising and unsettling, and Jacks breakdown, which involves an assault rifle and holding students hostage, immediately following is jarring. Though it is all a bit much, the quick pace, convincing dialogue, and interesting characters and situations will compel teens, especially those who have read "TheBattle of Jericho" (2003) and "November Blues" (2007, both S & S)."Diane P. Tuccillo, Poudre River Public Library District, Fort Collins, CO" Copyright 2009 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.