Book Review: Leverage by Joshua C. Cohen


Football reigns supreme at Oregrove High. The captains rule the school, and most teachers and coaches turn a blind eye to the players as long as the team is winning. Danny knows that as a small sophomore, he is a prime target for the team and their bulling.

Danny has a plan. As a gymnast he spends most of his out of school time working on being the best he can be, to help meet his goals: First, win the state high bar championship, next he will be captain of the gymnastic team, and finally as a senior he will win the state all around award and a full ride to the college of his choice.

Kurt may be an underclassman, new in school and wearing out-of-date clothes, but he is huge, scarred and is not going to take anything from anyone. He knows he is a target for his scars and stutter, however his size and ability on the football field will help him get by. Picked out of his old home, and placed in a foster home to play football, he knows this is his chance to leave his past behind.

Most non-football players stay out of the way of the team, led by captain Scott Miller, however when a cross country runner is being bullied, and one of the gymnasts stands up for him, a new war of sorts is started. It starts as pranks, however it escalates quickly after the football team's strength is challenged. Kurt and Danny make unlikely allies in this war, however when things go too far and neither sees a way out.

Leverage doesn't hold anything back, and can be tough to read at times. Kurt's past was not easy, and it keeps haunting him. Danny struggles with standing up for himself, and his teammates. They both witnessed something horrible, and coming forward may make things right but could also cost them both. Doing the right thing is not always easy, and with a little help from some unexpected people, Kurt and Danny might just bring the truth to light.

Sport books don't get much better than Leverage. Sports fans will enjoy the football highlights and gymnastic meets, and off the field things are only more intense. This is one of those great books that can be hard to read, however those of you who can make it through the dark parts of the book will be rewarded. If you enjoy books by authors Chris Crutcher, Chris Lynch and Pete Hautman, you will want to check out Leverage.

I'll see you @ the library!
Katie (Now reading I'll Be There by Holly Goldberg Sloan)