Also Known as Rowan Pohi

What begins as a practical joke ends up as an identity overhaul for freshman Bobby Steele. It all starts when Bobby and his buddies fill out an application to prestigious Whitestone Prep, a local private school, for a fictitious student they name Rowan Pohi (the last name is IHOP spelled backwards). Much to their surprise, Rowan is accepted, and Bobby takes the gag a step further, attending classes as Rowan. Swept away by Whitestone’s extraordinary facilities and friendly student body, Bobby feels happier there than at his own dismal high school, where everyone knows about his father’s abusive past and his mother leaving home. As might be expected, things soon go awry. The premise requires suspension of disbelief, and the resolution is too pat, but Fletcher (The One O’Clock Chop) creates many poignant moments regarding Bobby’s stressful home life and the brutal, impulsive act that tore his family apart. Hearts will go out to Bobby as he learns that being true to himself is as important as realizing his dreams. Ages 12–up. (Nov.)