The Yo-Yo Prophet

Ninth grade is anything but easy for Calvin Layne. His father disappeared after his mother died, and for the past six years Calvin has lived with his ill grandmother, who frequently confuses him with his father and has suddenly decided to sell her dry cleaning shop, without a plan for their future. Teased at school for being small, Calvin finds comfort and strength in performing yo-yo tricks, and he begins to gain popularity for his unusual skill after he is mistaken for a street performer. His pushy schoolmate Rozelle muscles her way into being his manager, and soon Calvin is putting on shows, making money, and gaining a huge following online. But when Rozelle begins marketing him as the "Yo-Yo Prophet" and claiming he can predict the future (a few of his predictions are accurate), Calvin must finally stand up for himself. Krossing's (Pure) depictions of the many pressures Calvin is under, as well as his relationship with his grandmother, feel especially intimate and authentic. It's a clever and quiet coming-of-age story about developing confidence and doing what's right. Ages 12%E2%80%93up. (Sept.)