It’s 1974 in Laurel Canyon, California near Los Angeles, and it’s the first year of “Opportunity Bussing” at Wonderland Middle School.  Many white families have left the school, but Charlie Ross’s family and others stay. Armstrong LeRoy and his classmates arrive. They now share the same teacher, tests and challenges.  There are losses at home, in the classroom and on the playing field but gains are made, too. This is refreshingly honest historic fiction that explores friendship as two boys confront racism, grief and bullying.  It’s a funny and moving story well suited for mature middle graders.
(Garden State Children's Book Awards nominee, 2020)