Book Review by Aarene Storms: The Stars Beneath Our Feet

The Stars Beneath Our Feet
by David Barclay Moore

12-year-old Wallace "Lolly" Rachpaul is at a tipping point. He's having a hard time coping without his older brother around. He misses his dad. He isn't a little kid anymore -- he's old enough now that the crews don't let him and his buddies trespass around gang territory. The only time that Lolly feels peaceful is when he builds things with LEGOs.

This is not a typical "inner city kid makes tough choices" novel, nor is it a "follow my lead and we'll live happily ever after" story. Lolly's narration explores the choices that he thinks are available to him ... and as the story advances, he begins to understand that being an artist is actually one of his choices. He also begins to understand that the people around him can help.

This is a lovely book with diverse characters, strong (but flawed) adults, and a bit of poetry. Recommended for readers ages 12 to adult.

Some very minor cussing, some bullying, a kiss or two, some references to off-page drug-running and gang violence. Plus Caribbean food, violin music, LEGOs, and poetry.


The events may not have happened; still, the story is true.  --R. Silvern

Aarene Storms, youth services librarian
Richmond Beach and Lake Forest Park Libraries, KCLS