Cut from AAA hockey last season, seventh-grader Hudson Pickle needs to
make the basketball team this year. But, after having an asthma attack
at the first tryout, his chances aren't looking good. His former best
friend, Trevor, is also trying out. But he won't even speak to Hudson
since Hudson had all but ignored him while concentrating on hockey. And
as if that wasn't bad enough, now his uncle Vic --- who's been staying
with him and his mom since a suspicious fire at his house ---has been
diagnosed with a genetic respiratory illness. Could this mean Hudson has
something worse than asthma? And while this DNA mystery is being
unraveled, will the truth about what happened to his father finally be
revealed as well?Yolanda Ridge's compelling coming-of-age novel for
middle-graders combines humor, action and mystery --- with a dose of
genetic science to keep things interesting. It offers a rich reading
experience with complex characters and a multilayered story. Thoughtful,
authentic and likeable Hudson will inspire readers with the grit and
perseverance he relies on to get through his difficulties, and the
self-deprecating wit he uses to manage middle-school social dynamics,
evolving friendships and a changing family structure. There are also
multiple mysteries running throughout the story --- involving Hudson's
father, his uncle and his own health --- that are sure to keep the pages
turning.
