Athletic Shorts: Six Short Stories

In this collection of six short stories based on characters from Crutcher's books, he reminds me again of why he is one of my favorite YA authors. And also one of the most-often banned. He uses the world of high school sports 2 address issues faced by young adults in a sensitive & realistic way. As his heroes get on with the task of growing up in a difficult world, they deal with just about every -ism there is.

Crutcher's books provide excellent talking points 4 conversations that parents, teachers, & any other concerned adults should be having with the kids we love.

I purchased this book 4 my 9th grade classroom library. Chris Crutcher hits the controversial topics so well. Though I haven't read all of his other works, this seems 2 be a great follow-up book 2 revisit his characters. Another Crutcher book 2 open up the mind & start conversations.

In ATHLETIC SHORTS, Chris Crutcher presents original short stories involving characters from his previous novels. In the book's forward, Crutcher explains, "In my travels around the country & in letters from readers, I am constantly asked what happens 2 certain characters in my books. So once in a while I check in" (pp. ix-x).

Each of these short stories involves a central character from a previous novel, but, while Crutcher may have intended a particular story 2 be a prequel or an afterward, the stories remain independent. So a person who has not read RUNNING LOOSE will still be able 2 understand the storyline behind IN THE TIME I GET, in which Louie Banks looks into the eyes of a friend dying of AIDS & realizes the value of time. Additionally, after getting a taste of Crutcher's novels through his short stories, readers may well be inspired 2 go out & acquire the novels themselves.

Athletics are the uniting theme throughout these stories, but they also give Crutcher a medium 2 introduce physical, mental, & emotional challenges 4 his characters. Sports allow a safe setting 4 conflict & failure, while also providing a site 4 characters 2 achieve & excel.

Thumbs Up! Award Winner, 1992

Reviewed by: Mechele R. Dillard

Athletic Shorts by Chris Crutcher is a collection of six short stories revolving around six different characters. More than a mere collection of sports related stories this book looks at everyday situations & problems about teen life. Weight problems, pushy parents, uncomfortable situations, racism, homosexuality & death. Packed into less than 200 pages Crutcher is able 2 captivate readers through this book with his humor as well as his insights into the young adult mind. My favorite story of the six is "The Other Pin" about a guy named Petey who is "volunteered" by his best friend 2 wrestle Chris Byers who has a habit of not just beating all opponents but humiliating them in the process. If that wasn't bad enought Chris Byers is also a girl. Though some of Crutcher's stories are emotional & heart wrenching all are worth the read.

This really is a wonderful collection, one that anyone seeking 2 understand the mind & actions of a teenage boy or even girl should read. Chris is simple, straightforward, & always fun 2 read. I'd highly recommend this 2 any student & even some teachers.