Ball Don't Lie
Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2007
280
Novel • Fiction
Venice Beach, California • 2000s
2007
YA
14-18 years
710L
Ball Don't Lie by Matt de la Peña follows a young individual named Sticky who navigates life in foster care and street basketball courts. As he struggles with trust and belonging, basketball becomes his outlet and guiding force. The narrative explores themes of resilience, identity, and the impact of past experiences on one's future.
Gritty
Emotional
Challenging
Inspirational
Melancholic
1,819 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Matt de la Peña's Ball Don't Lie receives acclaim for its authentic portrayal of street basketball and compelling character development. Reviewers praise its gritty realism and emotional depth but note that the language and mature themes may not suit all readers. The narrative's intensity captivates, though some find it occasionally predictable. Overall, it's a powerful read that resonates with young adults.
A reader who would enjoy Ball Don't Lie by Matt de la Peña is likely interested in urban stories with gritty realism and compelling character development. Fans of The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas or Hoop Dreams by Ben Joravsky may find this novel engaging due to its focus on basketball and a young protagonist overcoming hardship.
1,819 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
280
Novel • Fiction
Venice Beach, California • 2000s
2007
YA
14-18 years
710L
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