Toughing It
Author(s): Nancy Springer (Author)
- Publisher: Harcourt Childrens Books
- Publication Date: November 30, 1994
- Edition: First Edition
- Language: English
- Print length: 119 pages
- ISBN-10: 0152000089
- ISBN-13: 9780152000080
Book Description
When his older brother is senselessly murdered, sixteen-year-old Tuff loses the only person he relied on, but while struggling with his anger and loss, he discovers a friend in his father–and himself.
Editorial Reviews
From School Library Journal
Grade 7-10-Tuff, 16, is from an economically disadvantaged home, has a mean stepfather, several younger half siblings, and an often-drunk mother. His world falls apart in an instant when he witnesses his older brother’s murder-Dillon had been his stability. Bent on revenge, he finds a friend in Pen Leppo, the man he thinks may be his father. After several attempts to solve the crime, Pen helps Tuff realize that finding the killer will not bring Dillon back. This is an emotionally gripping novel that grabs readers’ attention right from the first page. The plot and main characters are well developed; they see Tuff’s gradual acceptance of his brother’s death and his discovery of a trusted friend in Pen. His anger and grief are palpable as he tries to deal with his loss. Secondary characters, however, are a bit sketchy. Nonetheless, Springer has created a contemporary story for YAs that deals with real problems. A good choice for reluctant readers.
Judy R. Johnston, Auburn High School, WA
Copyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Gr. 7-10. Tuff’s older brother, Dillon, is all that seems of value to Tuff, who lives in a crowded trailer with his alcoholic mom, her violent “old man,” and his squalling half brothers and sisters. When Dillon is viciously murdered and neither the boys’ mother nor the police seem to care enough, Tuff rages alone, eventually ending up with Penrose Leppo, a man his mother says is his father. Pen provides physical and emotional shelter for Tuff as he struggles for vengeance. Springer gives a clear picture of emotionally ragged lives, with poverty accentuating the difficulty of mourning and of finding one’s identity. The book’s language and the depiction of Tuff’s mother, who often seeks comfort in men, are direct. Mary Harris Veeder
From Kirkus Reviews
When Dillon is killed riding his bike to town, his younger brother Tuff loses the only person in the world who has ever cared for him. Tuff swears to avenge his brother’s murder but, despite his nickname, is unprepared for the task he has set for himself. He upsets the policemen on the case, kidnaps an innocent man, and nearly gets himself and others killed. At the same time, Dillon’s death has caused Tuff to make the most unlikely friends: Monica, a girl who had a crush on Dillon; and Pen Leppo, whom Tuff believes to be his father. Although Tuff later discovers that Pen isn’t his biological father, the two of them realize that they need each other, and Pen unofficially adopts Tuff. Because of Pen’s care, Tuff doesn’t die, or kill, in his pursuit of justice–and ultimately justice is done. Tuff learns to trust the people around him and they, in turn, do not disappoint him. For the first time in his 16 years, Tuff has hope for the future. Slightly unfocused, but Springer’s (Music of their Hooves, 1994, etc.) characters are well drawn and sympathetic. (Fiction. 12+) — Copyright ©1994, Kirkus Associates, LP. All rights reserved.
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