Crusader by Edward Bloor Ages 12+ 496 pages Harcourt April 2007 Hardcover     Crusader rips a hole in the veil of virtual reality to get at the truth within. Written with Edward Bloor’s commanding perception of teenagers, these pages practically vibrate with emotional appeal. Fifteen-year-old Roberta Ritter works at her family’s arcade. As she monitors the machines that let customers shoot, slash and slice their enemies of choice, her eyes are opened to the various degrees and depictions of violence around her. Racial crimes in the mall, classroom altercations and corrupt politicians reflect a society full of anger and hatred. As an aspiring journalist, Roberta has a passion for truth and justice. When she sets out to right the wrongs in her small part of the world, she uncovers a startling reality that will change her life forever. Exceptionally written, this novel captures the confusion and the conflicts of today’s teens. While the focus is on Roberta and her need for closure following her mother’s murder, a variety of subplots allow contemporary issues to be introduced. A diverse cast of characters highlights the various types of personalities that populate today’s society. The author touches on a wide range of subjects from hate crimes to family relationships, adding depth and dimension to the story. As Roberta understands the complex factors that contribute to a person’s motivation, her journalistic instincts develop while her heart begins to heal from her own personal pain. The dialogue is decisive, moving the story along with purpose. Teenage readers will find these pages to be a safe place to explore their own thoughts on these controversial issues. Roberta is a sympathetic character who walks through situations that could easily destroy a young person, yet her passion for truth and determination to survive shape her destiny, giving her a future firmly grounded in reality.   web reviews   Joyce Handzo/2007 for curled up with a good kid's book   For grown-up fiction, nonfiction and speculative fiction book reviews, visit our sister site Curled Up With a Good Book (www.curledup.com)