Palmer LaRue is running out of birthdays. For as long as he can remember, he's dreaded the day he turns tenthe day he'll take his place beside all the other ten-year-old boys in town, the day he'll be a wringer. But Palmer doesn't want to be a wringer. It's one of the first things he learned about himself and it's one of the biggest things he has to hide. In Palmer's town being a wringer is an honor, a tradition passed down from father to son. Palmer can't stop himself from being a wringer just like he can't stop himself from growing one year older, just like he can't stand up to a whole townright? Newbery Medal winner Jerry Spinelli's most powerful novel yet is a gripping tale of how one boy learns how not to be afraid.
Laura B. (Donura) from SAN FRANCISCO, CA wrote on 12/12/2007...
1 member(s) found this review helpful.
This is a great "guy" read. It shows young boys that compassion is a good thing and that they can still gain the respect of their friends by making their own choices rather than following the crowd. There is a lot to be learned about pigeons as well. I was amazed about the facts that I did not know as an adult that had been around pigeons all my life.
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Esther H. P. (estar) from ANAHEIM, CA wrote on 10/24/2006...
I've been a fan of Spinelli ever since I read Maniac Magee. His words might be simple, but his storytelling is always rich and deep.
Robert B. (TeenReader) from CHARLES CITY, VA wrote on 2/19/2006...
One of my favorite authors. Has a stamp on frond page that says "This book belongs to __________" I never filled it in, but you can if you'd like.