Carl Deuker is the perfect author for teen readers who would rather play sports than read about them. His books feature enough play-by-play action to keep the attention of sports fans combined with just the right amount of human interaction for readers looking for more than just a story about sweaty athletes. GOLDEN ARM is Deuker's latest addition, and this reader hit it out of the park in two days.
Living in a rundown trailer park with his mother and half-brother means that the odds are against Laz Weathers. He's been playing baseball as long as he can remember, but recently he's been recognized for his excellent pitching, and now he has hopes of using his arm as a way to improve his future.
Going into his senior year at North Central, Laz learns the bad news that the school is dropping its baseball program. His chances of breaking into the professional baseball are dwindling quickly. Playing in a neighborhood summer league gets Laz into some games where his talent might get noticed, but major league scouts aren't likely to show up at some crappy city league game.
When Laz strikes out local hitting star Ian Thurman during one of the summer games, he gets his break. Ian's father invites Laz to join the Laurelhurst fall practice program. It's all above board since Laz's home school isn't offering a program this year. If all goes well in the fall practices, Laz might be invited to join the team at Laurelhurst.
Despite the fact that Laz's brother Antonio seems to be getting mixed up in a drug selling ring, and they are about to lose their home because a development company plans to demolish the trailer park, Laz's baseball career is revived. The Laurelhurst coach does want Laz's talent on his team when the season starts. Mr. Thurman offers Laz a place to stay in his home so going to Laurelhurst for his last semester and playing baseball for a team whose talent frequently draws big league scouts, means Laz's baseball dreams are still possible.
Now it's up to Laz to provide the discipline and dedication needed to seal the deal. Can he compete on a championship team? Will his family support his efforts? Or, will things fall apart just when they are about to go his way?
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