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 goes to look at used cars. He wants to give up his Volvo because it isn't cool. He buys another car and donates his old one to Yvette's needy family. During the car search, Ernesto and his friends meet a veteran who is trying to get his money back for the used junker he purchased. Paul Morales, Ernesto's tough friend, helps. Unfortunately, suspicion falls on the group when the used car lot's offices are burned to the ground. Money and computer equipment has gone missing. The police question everyone about the theft and destruction. Then, Jorge Aguilar, a track team teammate, is arrested. The evidence is hard to deny. Ernesto and his pals are unconvinced that Jorge has it in him. When they meet Aguilar's older sister Dawn there are red flags everywhere. She has a leech of a boyfriend, who just so happened to buy a hunk of junk from the same lot. Does Dawn know that her brother was set up and is staying quiet? Ernesto and Paul lay a guilt trip on her.