Over and Under

I live in the country, have raised my sons in the country. This book could have been about me and my good friend growing up (on a variation). Or it can be taking place now with my sons. Well written and memorable. I don't know that I will pass this on to my sons just yet... it is best read as an adult wistfully looking back.

Paradise is being a fourteen-year-old boy and having a true friend to share complete freedom with--the forest is unspoiled and filled with wildlife and unexlored caves; the town is small and suitable for unsupervised explorations, and the bedroom windows are easy to climb out of at night. Though the summer of 1979 has more fodder for adventure than usual--a divisive labor strike, a deadly bombing, and a murderous drunk--it all serves as backdrop for the real story: the value and the power of a solid childhood friendship. This authentic-feeling story is not represented as young adult fiction though it is written entirely from the perspective of one of the fourteen-year-old boys, essentially because it is nostalgic--ah, the irretrievable days of youthful freedom! However, middle school boys and younger high school boys who like the outdoors and the freedom to roam and explore will enjoy this book. The adventure and excitement never ebb, and all the characters are richly drawn. The description of one of the boys in a drain pipe with a copper head snake by itself makes the book worth reading. It's a great book for parents who like to read and enjoy the books their kids also read.

Coming of age stories for adults remain somewhat uncommon; especially if you throw in the factor of cultural influences and social change affecting this transition point. That's what made TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD such a hit - a growing-aware young adult's newfound cognizance of adult issues - and that's what makes Todd Tucker's OVER AN UNDER so memorable. In the summer of 1979 two pre-teen best friends and cave explorers face danger and change in rural Indiana just as a labor strike is changing the face of the town. Perfect for any library strong in coming of age novels.

Set in the 70's, this is a great story that takes you back to an innocent time of childhood freedom. The main characters, 2 boys in their early teens, learn the history of their Southern Indiana town along the Ohio River through uninhibited exploration. Along the way they discover that they must understand and battle social influences and stereotypes that threaten their friendship as well as the lives of their families and neighbors. I loved this book!