Courage - by Barbara Binns (Paperback)

About the Book

"Ever since T'Shawn's dad died, his mother has been struggling to keep the family afloat. So when he's offered a spot on a prestigious diving team at the local private swim club, he knows that joining would only add another bill to the pile. But T studies hard and never gets into trouble, so he thinks his mom might be willing to bear the cost... until he finds out that his older brother, Lamont, is getting released early from prison. Luckily, T'Shawn is given a scholarship, and he can put all his frustration into diving practices. But when criminal activity increases in the neighborhood and people begin to suspect Lamont, T'Shawn begins to worry that maybe his brother hasn't left his criminal past behind after all. Can they put the broken pieces of their relationship back together?"--

Book Synopsis

For fans of Jason Reynolds and Kwame Alexander, a poignant and timely novel about race, class, and second chances.

Ever since T'Shawn's dad died, his mother has been struggling to keep the family afloat. So when he's offered a spot on a prestigious diving team at the local private swim club, he knows that joining would only add another bill to the pile.

But T studies hard and never gets into trouble, so he thinks his mom might be willing to bear the cost... until he finds out that his older brother, Lamont, is getting released early from prison.

Luckily, T'Shawn is given a scholarship, and he can put all his frustration into diving practices. But when criminal activity increases in the neighborhood and people begin to suspect Lamont, T'Shawn begins to worry that maybe his brother hasn't left his criminal past behind after all. Can they put the broken pieces of their relationship back together?

• A Powerful Coming of Age Story: T'Shawn is a good kid who never gets in trouble. But when his formerly incarcerated brother comes home, he'll have to decide who he wants to be--and who he can trust.
• Timely Social Justice Themes: Set on Chicago's South Side, this novel tackles tough questions about race, class, and the relationship between police and the community.
• A Unique Sports Story: T'Shawn discovers a love for competitive diving, an escape from his troubles and a place where he can finally fly. But the pressure on the board is nothing compared to the pressure at home.
• Two Brothers, One Last Chance: T'Shawn used to worship his older brother Lamont. Now, he's terrified of him. This heartfelt story explores the fragile, unbreakable bonds of family.

Review Quotes

"A solid addition with a multifaceted look at the urban experience." - Kirkus Reviews

"Absorbing and powerful tale. Reminiscent of Chris Crutchter's Whale Talk. An auspicious debut and a compelling read that will prompt important discussions about police brutality, racism, and economic inequity." - School Library Journal

"Courage is exactly what the title advertises: the tale of a brave child navigating the rough waters of adolescence and family trauma despite the natural fears we all have. Dive into this touching story ASAP!" - Lamar Giles, Two-Time Edgar Award Nominee

"Anger, injustice, bullying, jealousy, and shame develop into trust, passion, and forgiveness within a family and a community in this fast-moving book. A mirror to urban black readers, a window to everyone else, Courage might even teach you something about diving." - Patricia Hruby Powell, Author of The Robert F. Sibert Honor Book Josephine: The Dazzling Life of Josephine Baker

"This novel successfully tackles the realities of homelessness, police intimidation and violence, and racism, and it ultimately demonstrates that forgiveness requires courage." - Publishers Weekly

"Binns' first middle grade-novel uses its Chicago backdrop to thoughtfully showcase common but underexplored issues of family and community, with an ending that is hopeful and well deserved." - Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

"Sure to spark thought-provoking discussion among young readers." - Horn Book Magazine