A Star Is Born: 3 (Cruisers)

The Cruiser, the alternative newspaper published by Zander and his crew of middle school misfits, is alive and well. And now there’s plenty to report on when LaShonda, one of the Cruisers, steps into the spotlight with her costume designs for an upcoming play. LaShonda’s designs get rave reviews, but she soon learns that show business is filled with challenges and choices. LaShonda is forced to consider what’s more important — fame or loyalty to her autistic brother. Whether she gets a standing ovation or the curtain pulled down on her is up to LaShonda. And she can’t help but wonder if the Cruisers have got her back and will be there for her whether she’s center stage or waiting in the wings.

Walter Dean Myers is the critically acclaimed New York Times bestselling author of nearly one hundred books for children and young adults. His extensive body of work includes Sunrise Over Fallujah, Fallen Angels, Somewhere in the Darkness, Slam!, Jazz, and Harlem Summer. Mr. Myers's many awards include two Newbery Honors, five Coretta Scott King Author Book Awards, and the 2010 Coretta Scott King-Virginia Hamilton Award for Lifetime Achievement. In addition, he is the winner of the first Michael L. Printz Award. He lives in Jersey City, New Jersey.