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Going Where It's Dark by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor






Going Where It's Dark is a middle grade fiction novel by award-winning author Phyllis Reynolds Naylor. Buck's best friend David has just moved away and Buck is struggling to make new friends. Not only does no one seem to share his interest in caving, but Buck also stutters. When Buck meets Jacob, an elderly neighbor who needs help from time to time, he finds more than just a teacher. He also finds a friend.

Sex: None.

Language: None.

Drug/Alcohol Use: Some bullies hold Buck down and try to pour a beer they stole down his throat.

Violence/Gore/Frightening Scenes/Death: There is some serious bullying in this book. I don't want to give away the ending, but Buck is placed in a pretty serious predicament because of the bullies in his town. The end of the book is also pretty suspsenseful.

Final Note: What an awesome adventure book, especially for middle grade boys! Buck deals with real problems: the loss of a friend, bullies, and a speech disorder. It was heartwarming to watch him find his way and mature over the summer before eighth grade.

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