Gutless - by Carl Deuker (Paperback)

About the Book

From the author of Gym Candy comes a novel of football and bullying, finding friends and finding courage.

With both good speed and good hands, wide receiver Brock Ripley should be a natural for the varsity team, but he shies away from physical contact. When he gets cut from varsity, he also loses his friendship with star quarterback. Now a target for bullying, Brock struggles to overcome his fears and discover that, in his own way, he is brave enough.

Book Synopsis

"The sports may hook readers, but the bullying will land them."--Kirkus The wide receiver best able to hang on to his quarterback's passes, Brock Ripley would be a star for the varsity team--if he could just bring himself to put his body on the line. But he can't. Just like he can't bring himself to stand up for his friend Richie Fang, who has been targeted by the quarterback, known for his bullying. As events spiral out of control, Brock is faced with a true test of character. Can he find the courage to step up and do what is right?

Review Quotes

"Deuker effectively draws readers into his protagonist's world..." --Horn Book "Fans who count on Deuker to put a provocative spin on an already satisfying story won't be disappointed." --Bulletin "A well-written offering that deals with coming-of-age, bullying, and exciting sports action; a touchdown for sports collections and reluctant readers." --School Library Journal "The sports may hook readers, but the bullying will land them." --Kirkus --

About the Author

Carl Deuker is a premier author of psychological sports fiction for young adults, including the novels Heart of a Champion, Gym Candy, Payback Time, and Runner. He lives in Seattle, Washington. members.authorsguild.net/carldeuker/bio.htm