ABOUT THIS BOOK

The room smells of sweat, smoke, beer, and longing.

The music pulses, the lights flash, and Kata and Ana dance. For a moment the raucous crowd is tamed, and together the two girls soar above their lives. but then the deafening applause sends the dancers crashing down to earth, back to the gang wars, the gunfire, and the only way of life they know.

In a neighborhood consumed by violence, every day may be a gang member's last. And sometimes the only life you can hope to save is your own.


REVIEWS

"After reading the first two pages, you'll want to finish the book in one sitting." --Teen People

"Expertly describes the culture of Hispanic gangs...an excellent book." --Chicago Tribune

"A gripping look at a fascinating, often ruthless, urban world." --Kirkus Reviews


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Lynne Ewing writes extensively for magazines, television, and film. Her first book for young adults, Drive-By, was an American Library Association Quick Pick and a New York Public Library Book for the Teen Age. Ms. Ewing spent several years working for the Los Angeles County Department of Public Social Services as a bilingual employee before turning to writing as a full-time career. She lives in Los Angeles, California.


AWARDS

WINNER 1999 - ALA Quick Pick for Young Adult Reluctant Readers