Can You Take The Heat?

By Derek D.

Heat by Mike Lupica is about a 12 year old boy named Michael Arroyo who immigrates to the Bronx of New York City with his 17 year old brother Carlos. While Michael's 17 year old brother pays the bills since his dad died a year ago. He is a little league pitcher who is carrying his team to the championship because he has an amazing throwing arm. Until a kid named Justin starts complaining to the coaches because he thinks Michael isn't age legal due to the heat he packs with every pitch. Normally, this wouldn't be a problem because he could just prove to them that he is 12 by showing his birth certificate. But Michael has no proof of his age because  his certificate is still in Cuba. And if the services find out that Michael is an illegal immigrant, him and his brother will get sent back to Cuba and most likely separated. Michael happens to meet a girl who turns out to be the daughter of a Yankee star named El Grande. Michael opened up to her about his story and she told her father El Grande. He felt sorry for Michael so he contacting his friends in Havana asking if they have any way of finding Michaels information. After some searching, they found Michaels certificate! (You will have to read the book to find out the rest of this heart touching book).

In my opinion, this book was a really good book. I loved how Michael Arroyos background was so touching. It showed me that I shouldn't take my home, family, and friends for granted at times because some people out there are struggling badly and need help. Also, Im glad that Mike Lupica knew when to go into detail on some things in the book and knew when not to go that much on other parts. Im not that much of a fan of reading, but for once, I was interested throughout most of the book.

You should definitely try to pick this book up and take your time on reading it too. I say it is for ages 14 and up because there is some parts in the book you need a good amount of knowledge to understand. Overall, I give this book a 9 out of 10. It is my favorite book I have read so far. And I will definitely be reading more books by Mike Lupica. You can find this book at the Nashua South Library.