Secret Saturdays — Torrey Maldonado

A poignant look into one fatherless twelve-year-oldas struggles with friendship and trust.

Sean is Justinas best friend, at least Justin thought he was. But lately Sean has been acting differently. Seanas been telling lies, getting into trouble at school, and hanging out with a tougher crowd, even getting into fights. This isnat like Sean at all.

When Justin finally discovers that Seanas been secretly going to visit his father in prison and is dealing with the shame of that, Justin wants to do something to help before his friend spirals further out of control. But what if confronting Sean means Justin loses his very best friend? In the end, he decides it doesnat matter; heas got to man up.

Set in one of New Yorkas most dangerous neighborhoods, Secret Saturdays is an affecting read highlighted by strong characters and an authentic, heartening voice.