Cans

by Russ Thompson

Gilbert Neely is a hard-working high school senior who dreams of attending college and becoming a teacher someday. But time after time he is knocked down by poverty. Follow him as he searches for a way to achieve his dreams. Readability (Flesch Reading Ease) 92.4.

At Finding Forward Books, we publish easy-to-read, hi-low novels with positive life lessons that show teens overcoming challenges in their lives. Our goal is to help students improve their reading skills, increase their success in school, and gain hope.

The books are classroom appropriate and suitable for all students, including English learners and those with learning disabilities. They are printed in Open Dyslexic, a font to accommodate students with dyslexia. Lexile measures range from 390 to 560. They have been praised in Kirkus Reviews, Publishers Weekly BookLife Reviews, Foreword Clarion Reviews, and BlueInk Reviews.

Russ Thompson is a retired educator who served as a reading teacher, high-school principal, and district administrator in Los Angeles. Much of his time was spent working with at-risk students. He holds a teaching credential as a reading specialist, as well as a doctorate in education from UCLA.

121 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 30, 2023

Reviews

[Kathryn Atkins]

Another Inspirational Story

Sometimes it felt like the author piled too many problems on the main character. But it’s probably exactly how some kids grow up. The take-home—keep trying. The voice and tone of the book are believable. I hope troubled teens read this book and learn they can do it. In fact, the title is perhaps a double-meaning. Keep looking for cans instead of can’ts.

[Pat Spencer]

As in all of Russ Thompson’s books, the story of the protagonist’s life will inspire other students who struggle and must face many hardships, to achieve their goals. The transitions from high school, to hopefully college, then on to a productive adult life are fraught with difficulties no matter what the student or family circumstances might be. But through his writing, Russ Thompson speaks to those who must make difficult sacrifices and overcome great odds. Many will relate to how Gilbert, the protagonist of “Cans”, continues to do his best, even though he meets many obstacles. One can not help but feel good about how Gilbert changes his life’s trajectory.

I highly recommend “Standing For Me” by Russ Thompson. This quick and easy-to-read book is an incredibly useful tool for teachers, parents, and students alike. --Pat Spencer, author of the Sticks in a Bundle trilogy and A Baker’s Dozen For Writers.