Armstrong and Charlie: A Funny and Heartwarming Story of Sixth Grade Friendship in 1970s Los Angeles for Kids

by Steven B. Frank

 Charlie isn’t looking forward to sixth grade. After all, if he starts sixth grade, chances are he’ll finish it. And when he does, he’ll be older than his older brother ever was. Armstrong isn’t looking forward to sixth grade, either. This year, he’ll have to wake up at 5:30 to ride a bus to an all-white school in the Hollywood Hills.      When Armstrong and Charlie are assigned seats next to each other, what starts as a rivalry becomes a close friendship. Set in Los Angeles in the 1970s, Armstrong and Charlie is the hilarious, heartwarming tale of two boys from opposite worlds. Different, yet the same. 

Genres: Historical Fiction, Middle Grade, Friendship, Historical, Realistic Fiction, Fiction, Family

304 pages, Hardcover

First published March 7, 2017

Reviews

[Ivonne Rovira · Rating 5 out of 5]

Although set 40 years ago, Armstrong and Charlie remains as relevant as yesterday’s police shooting of an unarmed black teen — or this morning’s borderline-racist Donald Trump tweet. Sure, the novel presents coming-of-age stories for two 12-year-olds: white Charlie Ross, the son of Jewish politically progressive parents, all of whom are still mourning the death of Charlie’s brother Andy a few months earlier, and black Armstrong Leroy, the hot-tempered son of a disabled veteran who left a leg in Korea and picked up post-traumatic stress disorder. The pair, who would otherwise have never met, do so when Armstrong’s parents agree to Opportunity Busing, which sends a dozen kids from the projects to tony Wonderland Junior High in Laurel Canyon, home of Frank Zappa, Jerry Brown, Joni Mitchell, Carole King and fabled Mulholland Drive. Armstrong and Charlie are antagonists from the very start, with neither ready to give an inch.

But Armstrong and Chalie isn’t a TV Afternoon Special: there are no easy resolutions to overcoming the frictions induced by class and race. The novel remains believable throughout, hopeful without becoming Pollyannaish or maudlin. Because of that, this novel might shine a beacon of hope at a time when schools have been re-segregating at an alarming pace.

While it isn’t quite like any of them, Armstrong and Charlie should join A Separate Peace, The Chocolate War, Wonder, and Harriet the Spy as another classic that explores schools and injustice. Highly, highly recommended.

[Danielle · Rating 5 out of 5]

"I'll just say it's a book that tells the truth." (p. 265)

This book is terrific—layered, well-written, and feels true.

[Stephanie Fitzgerald · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thought this was great historical fiction! I was a child in the 70’s, so this book was a nostalgia trip in many ways for me. This is an era that is rarely written about.
But...* Red Flag Alert*
The cover art and print size make this appear to be for younger readers. Once inside, there are some pretty heavy issues about racism, adult depression, and school bullying. Very well written about, but much more appropriate for young adult aged readers.
I was surprised by some very mature language used frequently throughout the book. Enough so that I think adult guidance would be wise for younger readers.
Lastly, there is a scene where a teacher plays a record (yes, a record; it’s 1975!) of Stephen Foster’s “My Old Kentucky Home” which uses the lyric of “darkey” in reference to black people. It causes quite a stir among the students, particularly the ones bused in from housing projects on “Opportunity Buses”. The teacher is puzzled as to why the students are offended. Again, this part of the book needs definite adult guidance.
All told, I think this would be a great book for Y.A. classes to use. Boys would find this one appealing because the two protagonists are male, which is sometimes a rarity.

[Liz Friend · Rating 4 out of 5]

The story: Armstrong is getting bused to a different school in LA in the fall of 1973. Charlie's always been there, and he doesn't know what to think of the black kids who are volunteering to come all the way across town. He also doesn't know what to think about Armstrong, who's kind of a Rebel while Charlie's more of a Rules Boy. Even so, as the kids get to know each other, they find out they're more alike than they could ever have guessed.

June Cleaver's ratings: Language PG-13; Violence PG; Sexual content PG; Nudity G; Substance abuse PG; Magic & the occult G; GLBT content G; adult themes (racial segregation, death of a sibling/child) PG; overall rating PG.

Liz's comments: I liked the story a lot, and you could tell that the author actually went to this school and lived some of these experiences, because he gets them exactly right. It did seem, however, that the characters were a little older than sixth grade--Armstrong's advice to Charlie about getting a kiss with some tongue seems to me to belong more to 8th graders, and the frequent appearance of words like "dumbass" renders this better for MS readers than ES kids. Still, I really did like it, and there's a lot here that's still relevant 40 years later.

[Keep Calm Novel On · Rating 5 out of 5]

NetGalley provided a copy of the ePub in exchange for an honest review.

Steven B. Frank’s middle-grade novel Armstrong and Charlie is a powerful read with an important message. It is written for young readers but will certainly be enjoyed by all.

Armstrong and Charlie are beginning sixth grade in the 1970s. They live in Los Angeles and they are not familiar with each other’s world. Charlie lives a comfortable life but has experienced personal loss. Armstrong will be bussed to a white school away from his neighbourhood. Their first encounter is challenging and their journey is filled with the honesty of youth. This well-written novel examines racism, bereavement, bullying, and true friendship. Armstrong and Charlie is a quick read that does not disappoint.

[Michelle (FabBookReviews) · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

Armstrong & Charlie, the middle grade debut of Steven B. Frank has already received high praise with a starred review from Kirkus. A fantastic historical novel with two protagonists you'll not forget, Armstrong & Charlie seamlessly combines serious heartache and humour to tell the story of two young boys who meet during school desegregation in 1970s California.

We meet Armstrong Le Rois and Charlie Ross as they set out to start sixth grade at a Los Angeles school called Wonderland. Both boys are beginning their new school year under stressful, difficult circumstances, and in alternating first-person narratives, we experience and follow their often turbulent connection as their paths cross over and over again in and out of school. For Armstrong, he, as well as a few other students from South Central LA, will be integrated into a white school in the Hollywood Hills as part of an Opportunity Busing program. For Charlie, the start of the sixth grade means starting a school year at Wonderland without his brother and with the terrifying realization that he's soon going to have lived longer and get to experience more than his beloved older brother ever had the chance to. A story replete with substance, era and significant historical movements, Frank has more than capably interwoven the unforgettable voices and personal heartbreak of Charlie and Armstrong as they experience and navigate their new surroundings. Through the main characters' incredible, engrossing voices, Armstrong & Charlie explores everything from grief, death, trauma, racism, bullying, as well as family, loyalty, and adolescent matters of the heart. Frank navigates through Charlie and Armstrong's experiences of ugliness and happiness, moments of soaring and moments of dishonour with grace, insight, and some unexpected and satisfying humour.

Overall, Armstrong & Charlie is a standout read. Well-written, focused, rich with exceptional characters and a terrifically done dual-narrative, Steven B. Frank has done a super job with his children's debut. Readers who enjoy the excellent offerings of children's authors such as Firoozeh Dumas, Rebecca Stead, Karen Harrington, Kwame Alexander, Erin Entrada Kelly, or Sarah Weeks, or readers who enjoy historical or hard-hitting, significant middle grade lit might especially love this wonderful story.

I received a copy of this title courtesy of Raincoast Books in exchange for an honest review. All opinions and comments are my own.

[Ashlee Tominey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Middle grade historical fiction novel about two boys from very different neighborhoods in California in the 70s brought together by "opportunity busing".

Loved the character development and the budding friendships. A few uneasy moments as the boys try to figure out what kind of people they want to be. Plenty of laugh out loud moments.

My 3 year old picked it up from the New shelf at the library and handed it to me. Glad I stuck it in my bag and checked it out.

[Peg · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a remarkable story, much better than I anticipated. Once I began reading I found it difficult to put down. Having just begun my career as an educator in the early 70s, I can remember when busing began along with all the controversy.
Armstrong and Charlie is definitely a work of historical fiction. It has the ability to take you back to that point in time. From white wall tires to landlines and SRA reading cards. How they take me back. Even the music was representative of the time. I did find myself singing!
The relationship between Armstrong (the rebel) and Charlie (the rules boy) was developed beautifully. Two boys who are very different yet the same. It begins the first day Armstrong reluctantly steps off the bus at Wonderland Elementary School, a white school in the Hollywood Hills - a result of Operation Busing.
Charlie was the more serious of the two whereas Armstrong had a humorous way about him and there was ample humor. But their story also dealt with serious subject matter: bullying, trust, death and grieving, prejudice and it's fears along with showing the importance and effect of strong family bonds and true friendships.
We are also exposed to all the angst associated with this age along with the heartache as emotions develop and first love makes itself known.
Did I like the story? Yes
Would I recommend it? Absolutely
A totally relatable story well worth 5 stars!

[Skip · Rating 4 out of 5]

1970's California. Armstrong's parents decide he should be bused to a "white" school where he can get a better education, and perhaps put some distance between him and his many sisters. Charlie's friends are going to different schools, and he is kind of adrift. The two basically spend much of the book competing against each other in many normal adolescent ways, which after a certain point, became irksome. Happily, they are supported by a strong group of well developed characters, particularly family. I liked the way the book developed and Frank's portrayal of the teens, which probably comes from teaching kids this age. The book is clearly autobiographical as Frank found himself in this situation when he was in middle school.

[Brandi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I obtained the audio edition of Steven B. Frank's "Armstrong & Charlie" from a Goodreads giveaway. Ruffin Prentiss, Christopher Gebauer, and Karen Chilton did an excellent job with the narration. I also enjoyed the historical/educational aspects of this story as I have learned that works such as this can encourage young readers to research and learn about the events that are depicted. Even as an adult, I can become intrigued by events mentioned in books and have researched them in order to learn about them. I definitely give "Armstrong & Charlie" a thumbs up! Young readers/listeners should enjoy the engaging story and will probably relate, in many ways, to the two protagonists.

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought this book was phenomenal. For someone who doesn't read much in print, this book really hooked me. I didn't check it out the first day I started reading it at work, and I was thinking about it that evening and the mistake I had made. Checked it out next day. I would recommend this book to people who liked Because of Mr. Terupt to people who liked Revolution by Deborah Wiles. Plenty of it takes place in school and plenty takes place in a well-off and then in a poor, black neighborhood. It's about civil rights and friendship.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC! I'm so happy I sometimes judge books by covers because this one sucked me in, and what it contained did not disappoint. Here's one of those books I'm lucky enough to grab before it makes it big, and I'm excited to see this one make it big. If it doesn't, it will be will be a sin. This author weaves a tale that at times could be "juggling too many balls," if you will, with so many different pieces to the plot, but he never lets any of them drop. What you get is a story about friendship, acceptance, and a group of pre-teenagers I feel like I now know. There's two very different (& yet so similar) families who fight and banter and feel so real. There's not too much 70's thrown at you (sometimes books set in specific time periods shove it down your throat with the references to certain clothes and hairstyles), and I wasn't annoyed to have to wait a while to find out what really happened to Charlie's brother. No one goes through profound, complete life changes that leave you with rainbow happy endings, but these boys mature and change as 6th graders do, & their relationship was everything I hoped it would be (within the realms of reality!). The book did have some profanity (limited but still there, though the boys do have to put $ in the swear jar when it happens). The racism was handled well for a middle grade book, & Charlie's family is a great example of understanding equality. I really enjoyed the character of Mr. Kahlil and what he did for Armstrong as well because it showed that influences and good examples also don't have to be immediate family. I devoured this book in two evenings, and I stayed up late to finish it tonight, even though my youngest is an early riser. The fact that I'll accept that punishment shows the worth of this read. This book better g*da** be a best seller because it's worth the $ in the swear jar.

[Jenni · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars.

Yay! Thanks to Stephen B. Frank and Goodreads Giveaways I will be receiving a signed copy of this book! I can't wait to read it when it gets here!

Now that I have read this book, I am even more delighted that I now have a signed copy. This was a really well written book, set in the 1970's. There was a bit of a nostalgic factor for me that I'm sure influenced my opinion, as I was in 6th grade during that time as well.

The 2 titular characters were very well developed, and I cared about both of them from very early on. Conflicts were handled in a realistic manner. Some of the things the kids did seemed like they were older than 6th grade, based on my current almost-7th grader's experiences, but when I think back to MY 6th grade year, they seemed very plausible. It was a different time back then, and kids had more freedom than I think they do now. There is a bit of mild swearing, but nothing most 6th graders haven't heard - or likely said.

This is I think the 4th book this year that I've read that deals with race relations, and the first written for this age group. All of them have been well done, and all are, I think, a timely read with all that is going on now. I hope that this book finds its way into many children's hands - and adults as well.

Thank you again to the author for taking the time to sign a copy for me.

[Kellyanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy from NetGalley for early review.

The focus is the desegregation of a California school in 1975. Two boys, Charlie and Armstrong, come from different walks of life. Over the course of the book, their friendship develops in surprising, challenging, and sometimes subtle ways. This book challenges racial assumptions and generalizations still unfortunately often made today. The two protagonists are well-developed, as are several supporting characters. There was one event that occurred mid-book that I thought would come into play again at the end, but it didn't. That said, it in no way affected how moving the book was.

I would definitely recommend this read for all middle grades. It's excellent.

[Jess · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was fantastic. I loved it. It was right up my alley-- a mix between Remember the Titans and Wonder by Palacio (at least as far as family relationships go), and maybe a little bit like the movie Sandlot. Quite funny and sweet and sad.

Likes: The interactions between Charlie and Armstrong and each of them with their respective families was awesome. I loved it. I loved how much the secondary characters added to the narrative. It was just a very pleasant book to read.

Dislikes: None to mention.

[Andy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved this middle school buddy/coming of age book. Comedy, heart, tears, toughness and friendship, through some pretty extenuating circumstances (Armstrong is one of the first African American students to bused to an all white school in LA). There is a lot of growth in each of the main characters, who don't hit it off right away. This one is going on my Amazon list.

[Holly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really, really enjoyed this. We see life for two 6th grade boys, one black and one white, during the 1970s. Armstrong is being bused to what used to be an all white school and Charlie has been attending the school yet most of his friends have left due to the integration. What begins as a tense, disdainful relationship, turns into something beautiful.

[Hoover Public Library Kids and Teens · Rating 5 out of 5]

" Unforgettable, well-drawn titular characters are the heart of this deeply moving and laugh-out-loud funny story about family, friendship, integrity, and navigating differences." (from Kirkus Reviews)

[Tricia Douglas · Rating 5 out of 5]

A new book just out this year intended for 10 years and up. The story takes place during the late seventies in Los Angeles when "opportunity busing" began in order to give children in lower economic areas a chance to attend school in more affluent area. Armstrong and Charlie are two such boys. They learn lessons of friendship and family and first loves. A well-written book which will open great discussions for classrooms.

[Bethany Parker · Rating 4 out of 5]

A strong 4.5. Wow, this book shook me. These characters are so well-developed and lovable, but incredibly realistic. Must-read.

[Jack · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book because it reflected upon American history and segregation. Last year we did an entire unit about the Civil Rights Movement and that gave us a deep understanding about public protests. After reading this book I learned so much more about local protests and how children were affected by segregation. I also liked this book because it always kept me hooked in. I enjoyed reading this book and recommend it to kids my age!

[stillme · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a beautifully written book. Even though it takes place in the 1970s (and does a good job creating the sense of time period), it feels relevant to today - I think any modern kid could relate.
ALA ALSC Notable 2018

[Heather Laskos · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this book with my 10 year old and 14 year old and we loved hearing about Armstrong & Charlie's antics! I enjoyed the historical perspective of the mid-1970's and the social movements of the time - this book focusing on school busing between black and white neighborhoods in California. Armstrong and Charlie both learned that there are similarities that bind us together and differences that make us unique. Not only did they learn from each other, but also from each other's families.
We now have a new phrase in our house, "do me an Armstrong!" when we ask someone to get our laundry from the basement like Armstrong bringing in his sisters' clothes from the laundry line.
Language alert: this book had quite a bit of swearing for being a book about 6th graders.

[Melissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a beautiful story about overcoming differences, dealing with loss, and the power of friendship.

[Karen Arendt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Armstrong and Charlie are amazing characters that will warm your hearts and remind you of what it is to be human. In the beginning of the story Armstrong is a bully, and understandably so. He believes ne needs to act tough to survive. Charlie is tring to have a good year after his friends all go to different schools to avoid the desegregation of Wonderland School. Both characters have loving, strict parents who help to shape both boys. There is much to be said in the book for kindness, understanding and prejudice without being didactic. Everyone could spend a little time with Charlie and Armstong. Some of the kissing talk may be a bit mature for those younger than fifth grade.

[Benjamin · Rating 5 out of 5]

***THIS BOOK WAS RECEIVED FROM A GOODREADS GIVEAWAY***

With race relations where they are today, it’s almost somewhat jarring to know that things haven’t changed much in over four decades. In an attempt to educate the next generation about racism, Steven B. Frank’s Armstrong and Charlie is an excellent start. While I would like to think that race relations have improved since the mid-1970’s, there are plenty of lessons available in this book that are applicable today. Still, racism can be a two-way street, and I couldn’t help but think of the Avenue Q song, “Everyone’s a Little Bit Racist.”

Beyond the obvious racial undertones to this book, Armstrong and Charlie is a fantastic book about growing up. Aimed at kids on the cusp of growing into adults, the book masterfully represents moments of peer pressure where the characters have to decide what the correct response should be. Not only does it have valuable lessons about lying, stealing, bullying, and grieving, but it includes a few moments of romance as well. As boys progress into their teenage years, these moments are sweet, but also emphasize the whirlwind of emotions and hormones about to befall all kids of that age.

The best part of Armstrong and Charlie is how the narrative splits between the two, titular boys. With the reader knowing the background of each individual, the reasons behind the biases and social friction come to light well before the boys realize that people are deeper than they appear on the surface. Somebody might be poor and act out in spite of it. Others might have family or personal problems that they’re hiding via and underneath a mask of toughness. Once we finally get to know someone, we find they’re not nearly as different as we once thought.

A fantastic book about 1970’s race relations that everyone should read, I give Armstrong and Charlie 5.0 stars out of 5.

For more reviews of books and movies like this, please visit www.benjamin-m-weilert.com

[Freud · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book was o.k! But good because,it's about a boy who stays at his normal school but his friend's go to a diffrent school. And another boy that has a dad without legs. But this book was really good overall.

[Aunt Meanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Armstrong & Charlie By: Steven B. Frank

This is an excellent book that will help children learn about the desegregation of public schools in the 1970s. The story is told from the alternating point of view of the book's 2 main characters, Charlie Ross and Armstrong Le Rois. Neither of the 2 boys are looking forward to the start of the new school year in 6th grade. Each boy has his own personal issues, fears and challenges.

The story is set in Los Angeles, CA in the mid 1970s. The 2 boys come from 2 very different social and economic worlds.
Charlie Ross is a white student who lives in upscale Laurel Canyon. He has more than 1 reason for not wanting to start 6th grade. 1). ALL of his best friends will be going to different schools while Charlie will remain at Wonderland Avenue Elementary. 2). Charlie will get older than his brother who recently died. Charlie is saddened by that and also feels guilty that he will experience more in life than his brother was able to.

Armstrong Le Rois is a black student from South Central L.A. Armstrong is not at all enthusiastic about going to a new school, especially when he learns he has to wake up at 5:30 AM instead of his usual 7:00 AM. Armstrong's parents signed him up for Opportunity Busing. He and a few other black students are to be integrated into a white school in Hollywood Hills.

The school year starts with some challenges as the schools 1st experience with desegregation. There are a few racial issues that come up. At the beginning, Armstrong has a bad attitude and I hoped the book wasn't going to stereotype Armstrong. It didn't. In fact, the book portrayed Armstrong as a better person than all of Charlie's old school buddies! Charlie and Armstrong do butt heads at the beginning but as they learn more about each other they develop a close friendship.

What I liked. The story gives an excellent 1st person account of this very historical time, from the point of view of 2 children. The book is family oriented and both boys have strong family bonds and family support. It relates that both sets of parents want the same for their children, a good education, acceptance and unity.

What I didn't like. I didn't like the white boys torturing the lizard. It was cruel and served no purpose.
I definitely didn't like the white kids (Charlie's old school friends) stealing and trying to teach Charlie how to shop-lift. I didn't like that the book treated this behavior as if it's not more important than eating cereal for breakfast.

What confused me. The book begins with the 1st “Incident Report” dated 1974, later in the middle of the book an “Incident Report” is dated 1976. The book covers 1 school year. What happened to 1975? (perhaps this is a typo in the ARC I received that will be corrected before print)

I received the book free from netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
My review will be posted on goodreads, netgalley and moonshineartspot.blogspot.com

[Diane · Rating 4 out of 5]

"It's just as wrong to ignore an injustice as it is to inflict one."

It is 1974 and the lives of two kids are about to come together, at first by an act of government policy, and then by a friendship.

Armstrong Le Rois is the youngest with five older sisters. You would think he would be ready for anything! Then his daddy and mama announce he is going to be bused to a white school called Wonderland. Why on earth would Armstrong want to go to a school where he will be one of only a handful of African American students? But his parents know it is the right thing for their son. It is his chance to change. "It doesn't always have to be Armstrong against the world."

Charlie Ross comes from a Jewish family. He is dealing with serious change, as well. Less than a year ago, his older brother, Alex, died and his family hasn't been the same since. Then he finds out on the day before school starts that none of his friends will be going to Wonderland. Their parents are sending them elsewhere because of the busing.

How could anyone expect these two to become friends, with so many differences. But as Armstrong's mother points out, they are different but the same. How are they the same? "All starting sixth grade. All turning twelve. Going through the same changes." And, in the case of Charlie and Armstrong, they are unfortunate enough to get Mr. Mitchell, a "Medusa with a beard."

Their first encounters are physical, confrontational and get written up as incident reports by the recess supervisor, Mrs. Gaines. Finally, they both receive an out of school suspension for the Ho Ho incident. But as the important adults in their lives react to the suspension, the boys start to change their perspective. It's Mr. Khalil, the grumpy neighbor that Armstrong has been working for, that points out to Armstrong that he "took the easy way. The lazy way" for stealing Charlie's Ho Hos. And Charlie's dad can't believe his son is so "negligent, thoughtless, irresponsible and just plain dumb" for putting hot sauce in the Ho Hos. What if that student had had a severe allergy like Andy?

The turning point in their relationship is when Mr. Mitchell plays offensive music in class and Armstrong objects. Then, when Armstrong and Charlie have yet another fight on the playground, students begin chanting some of that offensive language. It's Charlie that speaks up for Armstrong in the principal's office, knowing that Armstrong was really fighting Mr. Mitchell. From then on, there's a tense truce between Armstrong and Charlie. And as they continue to interact and observe one another, they start to understand each other a little better. That's when the friendship begins.

An inspirational novel. The friendship between these two characters develops slowly, through many obstacles, to a believable conclusion. The supporting cast is nicely written, with flaws of their own. I love the alternating perspective so that the reader can see what each student is thinking about the same incident. If we could only walk in another's shoes like that, many problems might be avoided. There is strong voice in the narrative. And I love that, in the end, it's the kids, especially Armstrong, who help Mr. Ross face his fear and bias after he is mugged.

[Cindy Hudson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Charlie is about to start 6th grade when he learns that kids from a mostly African American neighborhood will be bused into his school and his friends are transferring out. His parents think it’s important that he stay.

Armstrong’s parents signed him up for Opportunity Busing to an all-white school, despite the fact that he doesn’t want to go. He has to get up super-early each morning to catch the bus, and none of his close friends will be on the bus.

The two boys clash when they end up next to each other in Mr. Mitchell’s class, but after a few fights, a few trips to the principal’s office, and a trip to science camp, they learn to know and appreciate each other for who they are instead of the expected stereotypes they assume about each other.

Armstrong & Charlie by Steven B. Frank takes place in the 1960s, when schools were being desegregated and communities resisted the change. Charlie’s family is still grieving the death of his brother from illness, and Charlie mourns the loss of his friends too. Armstrong’s dad lost a leg in the Korean war, and his inability to work strains the resources of a family with six children. Both families believe in the value of hard work, honesty, and integrity.

Even though Charlie and Armstrong learn to see each other as people, not just members of a certain race, others they know are more likely to judge someone based on skin color. When one of Charlie’s friends and even his dad express prejudice, he has to decide to ignore it or challenge it.

The author’s bio contains a note that the novel was inspired by his own sixth-grade year at Wonderland Avenue Elementary. Even though the novel takes place decades ago, the issues he addresses are still relevant today.

I highly recommend Armstrong & Charlie for readers aged 9 to 12. Issues for book clubs to discuss include historical ones like desegregation of schools as well as current perceptions of race and ways prejudice keeps us from understanding people who appear different from us.

The publisher provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.