Gaff

by Shan Correa

Paul Silva lives in a magical placeon a farm high in the hills of a lush, green Hawaiian island, where his disabled father raises, trains, and doctors to roosters intended for cockfighting. The family business sickens Paul, but its the only way his family can continue to live in the place he loves. Eventually, he must realize that being a man goes beyond wielding the power to hurt people and animals, and meet the tests of making decisions in a real world, which is far from a paradise.

Genres: Realistic Fiction

224 pages, Hardcover

First published April 1, 2010

Reviews

[ಥ_ಥ · Rating 3 out of 5]

the start and middle were great. the ending didn't feel very connected. very interesting topic for a ya book.

[Sandra Stiles · Rating 3 out of 5]

When I read the synopsis of this book I immediately thought about the book, "Wringer" by Jerry Spinelli. Both discussed what I deemed cruelty to animals for the love of a "sport". The deeper I got into the book the more I realized how important this book is with students. I've heard many of my Hispanic students weigh in on the issue of cockfights. I learned a lot from reading this book. I had never known that this happens in Hawaii. It is still illegal. This wasn't just a story about cockfighting but a story about a young boy trying to help his family and at the same time trying to stand up for what he believes is right. I am glad I had the opportunity to read this book.

[Scott Freeman · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my 100th book of 2010.