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Bones of a Saint

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( 173 ratings, 73 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Bones of a Saint by Grant Farley is a compelling coming-of-age story set in the 1970s in a small California town. It follows the journey of a young boy named R.J., who becomes entangled with a notorious gang known as the Blackjacks. As he navigates challenges and moral dilemmas, the narrative delves into themes of loyalty, courage, and the quest for personal integrity.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This book may appeal to you if you enjoy gripping coming-of-age tales set in the turbulent times of the 1970s. With themes of friendship, courage, and morality, it invites readers to dive into a teenager's struggle against a menacing gang in his small town. If you appreciate stories that mix historical elements with deep personal growth, this one could be a satisfying read for you.

Book Hero thinking about your next read

In 1970s northern California, fifteen-year-old RJ Armante must fight to save himself and his disabled brother from the Blackjacks gang, and free his hometown, Arcangel, from its past.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

Set in Northern California in the late '70s, this timeless coming-of-age story examines the nature of evil, the art of storytelling, and the possibility of redemption.

Fifteen-year-old RJ Armante has never known a life outside his dead-end hometown of Arcangel, CA. The Blackjacks rule as they have for generations, luring the poorest kids into their monopoly on petty crime. For years, they’ve left RJ alone, but now they have a job for himβ€”prey upon an old loner in town.

In spite of the danger, RJ begins to resist. He fights not only for himself, but for his younger brother, Charley, whose disability has always made RJ feel extra protective of him. For Roxanne, the girl he can’t reach, and the kids in his crew who have nothing to live for. Even for the old loner, who has secrets of his own. If RJ is to break from the Blackjacks’ hold, all of Arcangel must be free of its past.

Bones of a Saint by Grant Farley is a compelling read that challenges its characters and readers to confront the shadows of their pasts in pursuit of freedom and redemption.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

i>Bones of a Sainti* by Grant Farley has been praised for its atmospheric setting and engaging narrative that captures the essence of a gritty coming-of-age story set in the 1970s. Critics highlight its unique voice, compelling characters, and the seamless blend of storytelling, religion, and morality. The novel's literary style and evocative narration make it a standout in the young adult genre, offering an unforgettable reading experience.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781641292672

Publisher: Soho Press

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 01 February 2022

Country: United States

Imprint: Soho Press

Audience: Teenage

DIMENSIONS

Width: 140.0mm

Height: 210.0mm

Weight: 250g

Pages: 288

About the Author

Grant Farley worked as an English teacher for over twenty-five years and has taught at a Santa Monica alternative school, a barrio junior high, and a Marine Science magnet in San Pedro. All the while, he worked on Bones of a Saint, and excerpts of the book have appeared in various literary magazines and been showcased at a number of writers conferences. Then one day his awesome wife insisted that he retire, which is when RJ's story really took off. Now he writes full-time and volunteers at a lighthouse.

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