DON'T THINK ABOUT TOMORROW

Anne Schraff perfectly captures the joys, sorrows, and challenges of contemporary black teens in this realistic look at the kids of Harriet Tubman High School. Narrator Prentice Onayemi draws splendid distinctions between the many kids and the adults in their lives. Catchy music between chapters adds to the energy. There's also a subtle lesson about not worrying about tomorrow because often the worries never materialize. It's excellent advice despite the realties that some of the kids are coping with: an imprisoned father, a mom in rehab, and difficult stepparents. Author and narrator skillfully dispense hope and optimism while meeting problems head-on. This is an excellent addition to a series that focuses on "friendship, loyalty, drugs, gangs, abuse, urban blight, bullies, and issues of self-esteem." S.G.B. © AudioFile 2012, Portland, Maine [Published: APRIL 2012]