No Slam Dunk by Mike Lupica

Teen Book Review by G4 (7th Grade)

“No Slam Dunk” is a very good novel, with many thought-provoking moments.  It is told from the point of view of Wes, who is a 13-year old basketball player.  He is very considerate and always tries to be a team player, passing the ball to less able kids.



When the long-anticipated basketball season starts, Wes’s friend, Danilo “Dinero” Rey, wants to hold the spotlight and the ball, even if it costs the Hawks the game.  But, Wes disagrees with Dinero, and he wants the games to be a team effort.  This causes a feud between the two.



Meanwhile, Wes has his own issues at home, too.  His father is in the military, so he doesn’t have time to go to Wes’s games.  When he does have time, though, he does some crazy things.  Read the book to find out what he does!



Wes and his teammates share a tight bond, and they work very hard to get to the championship in the basketball tournament.  The coach creates a fun atmosphere with them, and encourages them to have lots of fun.



I recommend this book to teens because they can relate to it, as many teens play sports and have experienced a similar feeling as Wes.  Also, many teens have parents in the military, and they can feel the same way as Wes.



I rate this book 5/5 stars because it is realistically written, and it shows many feelings teens have.  The author uses the type of language that teens use, which makes it easier for them to get into the book.