Ricochet
by Julie Gonzalez

    RICOCHET by Julie Gonzalez
    Category:  Contemporary
    Age Recommendation:  Grades 6+
    Release Date:  4/10/07
    Publisher:  Delacorte
    Reviewed by:  Sally Kruger, aka "Readingjunky"
    Rating:  5 Stars


    Four boys. An abandoned rooftop. A gun. A game of Russian-roulette.

    Connor Kaeden's life is changed forever. He and one friend are on probation. Another "friend" is in jail. His best
    friend is dead. What happens next?

    Every one of Connor's relationships has been affected. His parents now question his every move. His younger
    brother won't even look at him. His older brother suddenly starts including him in his late-night escapades. His best
    friend's mother hugs him and tells him to visit anytime. Connor lives his days with constant reminders about what
    happened on that deserted rooftop, and the guilt that he should have done something to stop it.

    With the help of his probation officer, Connor gets a job at a local hardware store hoping to earn the money to
    repay the fines and court costs his parents incurred. The work is satisfying and helps Connor with more than just
    money. Connor also finds relief when he resumes playing his violin. He often finds himself stopping work in the
    store's garden center to jot down a few bars of music that seem to express the turmoil in his mind. Basically,
    Connor tries to get his life back to what it once was. But is that even possible?

    RICOCHET by Julie Gonzalez explores the emotional journey from tragedy to the gradual return of what might
    begin to pass for normal daily existence. This soul-searching, emotion-packed novel follows one young man and his
    family through the aftermath of one senseless act.