The American Library Association, including its divisions, offices, and round tables, recognize books and other media of distinction each year, covering a variety of age groups and subject areas. Below you will find a review of one of ALA's lauded books. To read about all of ALA's book and media awards and its notable books and media of distinction, visit our ALA Awards and Notable Books page.
Born to Rock
Gordon Korman
Quick Picks for Reluctant Young Adult Readers Winner
"There are two kinds of people in this world--those who have had a cavity search, and those who haven't. This is the story of how I wound up in the wrong category." After Young Republican Leo Caraway discovers that his biological father is none other than millionaire King Maggot, lead singer of the punk band Purge, he accepts a roadie job on King's tour in the hope of securing sorely needed college tuition. Soon, coke-snorting musicians and on-the-make agents are assaulting Leo's traditional values at every turn. Still, he manages to keep his cool, until he uncovers a shocking truth about his bio-dad that leaves him questioning every principle he holds dear. Leo's journey to punk-rock appreciation is a sharply observed, original take on the tired "outsider looking in" cliche. Though predictable at times and a little too clean (since when are there no expletives in punk?), Korman's rock opus redeems itself with smartly written dialogue and a slow-burning romance between Leo and his best friend, Melinda. -- Jennifer Hubert