Customer Reviews

Why I Fight (Richard Jackson Books (Atheneum Paperback))

5 star:		(9)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Captivating story, interesting characters,accessible writing style.

What I enjoy about Oaks and his forming of characters is that they breath their own breath. As an adult without children or teens, I enjoyed this book purely for my own enjoyment. I would recommend it for entertainment but also for a catalyst to deeper reflection. "Why I Fight," provides an opportunity to dissect where one comes from, how their environment shapes them, and what questions we ask ourselves about the world.

Despite being a "young adult" novel, this book has a compelling story and rich characters that held my (adult) attention strongly. I read it rapidly and found complex emotions in every page turn. The images are so immediate and accessible that it was like reading a screenplay. I was an avid reader during my "young adult" years (and beyond) and I do not recall ever reading anything like this. There exists unique and different gender and class perspectives in this book that are not often found in this genre. I highly recommend it for female or male readers of any age, but especially think it could be used as a jumping off point for heavier educational discussions with teens about class, race, violence, communication about emotions, and more.

Meet Wyatt Shreaves. Ever since he turned twelve-and-a-half, Wyatt hasn't seen his parents (the neglectful ma and Fever) or gone to school. Together with his itinerant uncle Spade, a traveling salesman with questionable morals, Wyatt crisscrosses the country, weaving in and out of cities, towns, trailer parks and suburbs selling unknown goods. Rootless and with uncle Spade's chevy as his home, Wyatt grasps at any fragile trace of friendship or family he encounters.

One day, uncle Spade spots Wyatt throwing a powerful punch and the dollar signs in his eyes light up. Thus begins Wyatt's life as uncle Spade's meal ticket and an underground fighter. As the wins, money, and injuries roll in, Wyatt begins to feel estranged from his once-admired uncle. Without anyone to talk to and without anyone who truly cares for him, Wyatt withdraws deep into himself, finally making the ultimate decision to return home.

Wyatt's authentic and gritty voice tells you a dark and heartbreaking story about a lost boy who has slipped through the cracks. The end of the novel is despairing--yet contains hope and optimism--and the reader is left with the question: What is Wyatt going to do now?

I highly recommend this book to everyone, but be warned that it will grip you tightly and wrench your heart. Filled with complex characters and ambiguities, the book will keep readers thinking of Wyatt and his fate long after the story is finished.

This coming of age story is great for young adults and adults alike. It features a protagonist and subject that is rugged enough for young men and sensitive enough to make teenage girls swoon. Enjoy this page turner!

When I was a kid I died for books like Oak's. In my day there wasn't a lot of options that mirrored the same voice driven plot of 'Why I Fight'. It was refreshing to be introduced to a world that most YA topics won't divulge in. But it's not just the story and voice that succeed. The author gets "it". He sees everything so clearly that his descriptions will place the reader so close to the story that it hurts to put the book down. With a mixture of serious topics mixed with emotional relevance, you can't help but think of another book intended for this age group that could ignite the same insights. Perfect for a classroom or even better for a starter reader-- this book will engage any audience.

This book is hard to categorize. It held my interest, albeit with a bit of the "can't look away from a car wreck" fascination. Wyatt Reaves is not very educated, big for his age (young teen) and oddly averse to repeating adult curses. He travels from place to place with his Uncle Spade, who is busy hustling a living, eventually using Wyatt as his meal ticket. Wyatt manages to maintain an air of innocence despite exposure to some gritty situations. If you like fiction with a dose of street-smart, gut-wrenching reality this is a good choice.

This is the only book I have picked up and did not put down until I finished it. It is hard to find a book like this that really grabs your interest and doesn't let it go. I loved the character and the things he went through were relatable on a psychological level. I would have died for a book like this as a teen, but loved it in a different way, being an adult, than I think I would have. I would buy this book for anyone who likes a good read, and has some depth to them.

The main character,Wyatt is a completely believable teenage character who makes you care about him and cheer him on. He's a survivor and a hero. Mid-school and high school kids would relate to him even if their lives are very different. It is a good book for a reluctant reader since the language is simple and straight forward. School systems should consider including this book in their libraries and even as part of the curriculum.

Retired teacher, Albuquerque, NM

An excellent book with characters that really interest you. I am hoping for a second book to find out what happens to them....but maybe a plus for the book is that everyone who reads it has a different opinion. The book is extremely well written and the use of or non use of quotes was great. I think the book is as much of an adult book as it is for young adults. Looking forward to more from this author.