June - August 2005
 The Battle of Jericho
by Sharon M. Draper
The venerable Sharon M. Draper does it again! The Warriors of Distinction, a neighborhood gang invites Jericho and his cousin Josh to become part of the lore that has given this group a legacy. In pledging for membership, the two realizes what esteem it will bring and anticipates all the accolades and prestige for self-gratification. They know too, how different their world would be in the process just to belong! But all of this comes at a price. Does Jericho realize what has to be given up to join this group? How will he fare and cooperate with intimidation, peer pressure, and perception among his friends? In answering these questions, the author manages to weave a vivid vernacular free of clichés and profane language. The character development that went into shaping a believable portrayal lends a lot to actions and reactions to difficult choices that youngsters must make for acceptance and credibility. I see a sense of innate quality as the author blends angst with reality to tell a story that has been prevalent in many urban settings.
THE BATTLE OF JERICHO, her latest, is an interesting story that paints a story with a varied mixture of coloring blending hues of harangue amid tints of temperament for an ending that typifies a modicum of success. The main theme on this canvas deals with popular choice vs. pressure of dealing with consequences thereof. In the book, Jericho and a few of his friends have been invited to join the Warriors, but and the picture is much clearer, Jericho feels more and more uncomfortable with some of the things the pledges are required to do and must decide when enough is enough. What makes the story move moderately along and gives readers reason not to abandon the book is the griping detail and the setting the authors invite for dramatic effect. I was more than surprised at a few twists and turns that gave merit to back story and other related kin, such as surviving a physical handicap, teen dating, and dealing with apathy in parental discretion. I loved the way Ms Draper used a sense of realism to make this story radiate, and the message she’s able to wrought should make this a book that most young adults should not only identify with, but to use it as a way to acknowledge how things can go awry if mistakes are made without making the right choices.
I felt that the social issues introduced was needed to let readers understand that they are still prevalent in our societal environment and shouldn’t be ignored. With just enough to illustrate her point, there wasn’t a need to delve further lest you erode the sense of ‘place’. Jericho's story and the closure possessed just enough to remind readers that no matter what age, things can get out of control spelling dire consequences. The book will not only make readers think, but it will also remind them of how quickly things can spiral out of control. Sharon Draper is indeed on target to bring a level of reasoning when it comes to writing for the very market that seems to need her most. I really loved this book and hope that others will give it and the author a chance to make a difference in your book buying habits. I rated the book 4 out of 5 stars. Buy it where books are sold!
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