The right story at the right time. . . . It's not just a narrative; it's
an experience. It's the novel we've been waiting for. --The New York Times
A boy tries to steer a safe path through the projects in Harlem in the wake
of his brother's death in this outstanding debut novel that celebrates
community and creativity. ** WINNER OF THE CORETTA SCOTT KING JOHN STEPTOE
AWARD FOR NEW TALENT ** MICHAEL B. JORDAN TO DIRECT MOVIE ADAPTATION SIX
STARRED REVIEWS It's Christmas Eve in Harlem, but twelve-year-old Lolly
Rachpaul and his mom aren't celebrating. They're still reeling from his
older brother's death in a gang-related shooting just a few months earlier.
Then Lolly's mother's girlfriend brings him a gift that will change
everything: two enormous bags filled with Legos. Lolly's always loved
Legos, and he prides himself on following the kit instructions exactly.
Now, faced with a pile of building blocks and no instructions, Lolly must
find his own way forward. His path isn't clear--and the pressure to join a
crew, as his brother did, is always there. When Lolly and his friend are
beaten up and robbed, joining a crew almost seems like the safe choice. But
building a fantastical Lego city at the community center provides Lolly
with an escape--and an unexpected bridge back to the world. David Barclay
Moore paints a powerful portrait of a boy teetering on the edge--of
adolescence, of grief, of violence--and shows how Lolly's inventive spirit
helps him build a life with firm foundations and open doors. MORE PRAISE
FOR THE STARS BENEATH OUR FEET A New York Times Notable Book A Time
Magazine Top 10 Children's Books of the Year A Boston Globe Best Children's
Book of the Year A Publisher's Weekly Best Book of the Year A Kirkus
Reviews Best Book of the Year A Shelf Awareness Best Book of the Year A
YALSA Quick Pick An ALA Notable Book A fast and furious read in which we
meet some amazing people, people that stay with us. David Barclay Moore is
an exciting new voice. We definitely haven't heard the last of his
brilliance. --Jacqueline Woodson, Newbery Honor and National Book Award-
winning author of Brown Girl Dreaming The Stars Beneath Our Feet is about
the weight of the world on the back of a child, and the creative tools
necessary to alleviate that pressure. I found myself rooting for Lolly, and
you will too. --Jason Reynolds, Coretta Scott King Honor Winner for As
Brave As You