What marvelous and well-rounded characters! Every one of them has a reason for being, and the author reveals them, sometimes through a dream character named Hey-Soos. Respect everyone’s journey.
There is also some side exposition about school curriculum, particularly in history and civics, that just now is in the news and general awareness. (Book was published in 2007.)
This is my first exposure to Crutcher, but I will read him again.
Also pleased to see the publisher, Greenwillow Books, still with the excellence I remember from when my kids were small. ( )

2 stars

It had its moments, but ultimately unremarkable. ( )

At first I didn't like this book. The language was typical Crutcher, breezy, a little too smart alecky, and teenagey. Used "way" way too much. The premise was a little too hard to believe also. But as I got into it, I loved it and couldn't put it down. It was sooo sad. ( )

A moving and funny tale of a teenage boy who wants to live before he dies. Have tissue handy for the last third of the book. ( )

Ben is looking forward to his senior year of high school when he is diagnosed with a lethal form of cancer. Since he is 18, he convinces his doctors not to tell his parents so he can live his last year as he chooses. Ben, who has always been a cross country guy, decides to play football; talk to the girl of his dreams; and harass his social studies teacher. Palmyra high school students would recognize this harassment as something Mr. Smyser would do in student form.

This book is for students who want the courage to try new things. Ben is an inspiration in spite of his circumstances.
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