National Network for Equitable Library Service

Written for young adults, the Urban Underground series confronts issues that are of great importance to teens, such as friendship, loyalty, drugs, gangs, abuse, urban blight, bullies and self-esteem to name a few. More than entertainment, these books can be a powerful learning and coping tool when a struggling reader connects with credible characters and a compelling storyline. The highly readable style and mature topics will appeal to young adult readers of both sexes and encourage them to finish each eBook. Cesar Chavez H.S. Series — Ernesto and Naomi are mentoring two at-risk freshmen who've had it rough. Naomi's father isn't happy that she's hanging around at-risk kids, but Ernesto convinces him that the kids are fine. Meanwhile, Clay is up to his cruel tricks. Mira has taken him back, and his parents have rewarded his bad behavior with a new car. It's too hard to resist temptation; someone has let the air out of the new car's tires. Meanwhile, Mira's ex and rebound Kenny is floored when Mira dumps him, and takes Clay back. Kenny gets another kid to call Clay and accuse Mira of cheating. Clay is livid, but doesn't lose his temper like he's done in the past. Is volatile Clay turning over a new leaf? Mira begs Ernesto to find out who made the call.