Rapp, Adam. Punkzilla. 2009. 244p. Candlewick, $16.99. (978-0-7636-3031-7). Gr. 8-10.

On his way from Portland to Tennessee, where his gay older brother is dying of cancer, 14-year-old Jamie (aka Punkzilla) writes a series of letters about his adventures and his feelings regarding their dysfunctional family. Jamie’s personality and background are revealed through his details and ideas about the wide variety of characters he meets and other letters from family and friends, providing a great view of both adolescence and Americana. With humor and optimism, the stream-of-consciousness language rings true, and the format will appeal to young readers. -Nel Ward