Customer Reviews

The War on Villa Street

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

 

 

I read this book about 25 years ago, when I was a thirteen year-old boy. While this book contains no literal war, it does describe a psychological war waged by a tough gang against a fairly lonely boy (can't remember name) whose only real outlet is running. This boy has no real support from home because his father is battling his own problems and other family members are absent.
I remember the book as pretty interesting because of the different problems that are explored. It was one of the first times I read about such themes as alienation and dysfunctional families. The fact that the main character faces daily harassment and confrontation in a classic physical manner adds momentary excitement for those who don't have the patience to see more abstract topics take form, develop and resolve themselves. I don't dare to stick out my neck and give it four stars, but easily 3; again, this is the opinion of a 38 year old man.

The book "The War on Villa Street" was a real disappointment to me. I Expected there to be a bit more violence, it would have helped. Willis is the main character and when he gets mad all he does is run. I mean, running away isn't very exciting to me. The only cool part of it is when Willis is coaching this retarded kids in sports and the kid seems to think that Willis is his new best friend, thats pretty funny.Overall i would steer clear of this book.