Trash

by Andy Mulligan (Author)

Reading Level: 8th − 9th Grade
In an unnamed Third World country, in the not-so-distant future, three "dumpsite boys" make a living picking through the mountains of garbage on the outskirts of a large city. One unlucky-lucky day, Raphael finds something very special and very mysterious. So mysterious that he decides to keep it, even when the city police offer a handsome reward for its return. That decision brings with it terrifying consequences, and soon the dumpsite boys must use all of their cunning and courage to stay ahead of their pursuers. It's up to Raphael, Gardo, and Rat--boys who have no education, no parents, no homes, and no money--to solve the mystery and right a terrible wrong. Andy Mulligan has written a powerful story about unthinkable poverty--and the kind of hope and determination that can transcend it. With twists and turns, unrelenting action, and deep, raw emotion, Trash is a heart-pounding, breath-holding novel.
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School Library Journal

Starred Review
Trash is a compelling read. The action is riveting and the secret codes throughout will appeal mystery fans.

Publisher's Weekly

Starred Review
This gripping book engages readers both as an adventure and as a social justice story. Readers will be satisfied by the cinematic conclusion and the noble decision the heroes make.

Review quotes

"Trash is a compelling read. The action is riveting and the secret codes throughout will appeal mystery fans" - School Library Journal, starred review

"This gripping book engages readers both as an adventure and as a social justice story. Readers will be satisfied by the cinematic conclusion and the noble decision the heroes make." - Publishers Weekly, starred review

"The three boys, and others, act as alternating narrators of the story, giving vivid descriptions of their lives. In spite of this, the boys' hope and determination for justice and the dilemmas they face with so much courage will impress readers. Recommended." - Library Media Connection

Andy Mulligan
Andy Mulligan was brought up in South London. He worked as a theater director for ten years before travels in Asia prompted him to retrain as a teacher. He has taught English and drama in Britain, India, Brazil, and the Philippines. He now divides his time between London and Manila.
Classification
Fiction
ISBN-13
9780385752169
Lexile Measure
850
Guided Reading Level
-
Publisher
Ember
Publication date
October 20, 2011
Series
-
BISAC categories
YAF042000 - Young Adult Fiction | Mysteries & Detective Stories
YAF001000 - Young Adult Fiction | Action & Adventure
YAF058130 - Young Adult Fiction | Social Themes | Homelessness & Poverty
Library of Congress categories
Mystery and detective stories
Political corruption
Refuse and refuse disposal
Poverty
Developing countries

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