HANDS by Torrey Maldonado

 

Trev has vowed to protect his mother and sisters. When his step-father was sent to prison for hitting Trev's mother, he threatened to get even with Trev when he was released. That day will be coming soon so Trev wants to be prepared.

Working out in the neighborhood gym seems to be the answer. Trev wants to use his hands to settle the score with his step-father, but he isn't getting much support from those around him. His "uncles" all tell him using hands to get even isn't what his mother and sisters would want. They have dreams for Trev that don't involve using his hands in a violent manner. His mother reminds him about how he liked to draw when he was younger and others remind him how good he was. He keeps hearing the word "promise" and wonders if that might be where he can find the answer.

Author Torrey Maldonado's HANDS is just over 100 pages, but it definitely packs a punch. Trev's voice comes through loud and clear as he struggles to determine his path. The characters who step forward to give him advice and stand by him illustrate the people we all have in our lives if we just take the time to listen to their wise words.