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How Lamar's Bad Prank Won a Bubba-Sized Trophy
“A powerful mix of sibling rivalry, revenge, and hard-won redemption. Readers will come for the laughs and stay for the laughs.” — BCCB Thirteen-year-old Lamar Washington is the maddest, baddest, most spectacular bowler at Striker's Bowling Paradise. But while Lamar's a whiz at rolling strikes, he always strikes out with girls. And Lamar's brother is no help—Xavier earns trophy after trophy on the basketball court and soaks up Dad's attention, leaving no room for Lamar's problems. Then bad boy Billy Jenks convinces Lamar that hustling at the alley will help him win his dream girl, plus earn him enough money to buy an expensive pro ball and impress celebrity bowler Bubba Sanders. But when Billy's scheme goes awry, Lamar ends up ruining his brother's shot at college and damaging every relationship in his life. Can Lamar figure out how to mend his broken ties, no matter what the cost? Crystal Allen's debut novel bowls over
288 pages, Hardcover
First published February 22, 2011
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews
July 18, 2012
Voice. Voice, voice, voice.
Lamar's voice jumps out of the page at you.
I read the first half-or-so of this book out loud, and the way Lamar talks is unforgettable. Hilarious, gregarious, and goofy.
It's surprising when the plot gets a little thicker. There's some seriously familial issues which need to get worked out, some broken and ill-found friendships, some romance. The book deals with some real stuff. It almost gets heavy in parts.
It's a book about finding your place in the world, about relative value of siblings, about getting a new perspective on people you've known for years.
And it's a book that stays with you. I started reading this out loud in April, switched to reading it to myself in May, and didn't finish it until June or so, and I still remember it well enough to write this review in July.
Lamar's voice jumps out of the page at you.
I read the first half-or-so of this book out loud, and the way Lamar talks is unforgettable. Hilarious, gregarious, and goofy.
It's surprising when the plot gets a little thicker. There's some seriously familial issues which need to get worked out, some broken and ill-found friendships, some romance. The book deals with some real stuff. It almost gets heavy in parts.
It's a book about finding your place in the world, about relative value of siblings, about getting a new perspective on people you've known for years.
And it's a book that stays with you. I started reading this out loud in April, switched to reading it to myself in May, and didn't finish it until June or so, and I still remember it well enough to write this review in July.
March 15, 2019
4.5 stars! Books about bowling are few and far between. I picked this one up after reading Donna Gephart's recommendation in her 2018 novel "In Your Shoes." There are similarities that would make both books appeal to readers other than the obvious bowling alley aspect. Both contain main characters who are dealing with a lost parent. There are also lessons to learn about making mistakes and keeping/making friends in both narratives. I am especially impressed by Lamar's distinct voice as written by Allen in this particular bowling tale. We live real life with Lamar -- asthma, hustling, sibling rivalry, bad decisions and all. This might draw some reluctant readers back to books and budding bowlers back into the bowling alleys.
April 26, 2025
[CW: domestic violence]
Teen is reading this for school, so I picked it up, curious as to why advanced middle school kids were reading a book categorized for elementary ages. Content-wise, it is very much a novel for teens, as there are mature plot elements. Not too sure on the reading level itself, but I also don't have any frame of reference for what literacy is actually like among teens in the U.S. right now. I mean, I see them buying adult romance, but that's probably written at a fifth grade level, sooooo...
Lamar Washington is a 13yo badass bowler who just wants some attention. Either from his father, who's often busy working or doting on his older son, a star basketball player, or from girls. He seems very independent for his age, often left unsupervised to walk to the bowling alley and hang out eating junk food all day. He even goes to a doctor's appointment by himself?! If you haven't guessed by this point, his mother is dead, a trope that persists in stories that requires kids to be free for adventure and independence. What's left is a father trying his best but often missing the mark and two sons grieving and seeking their father's approval.
Lacking that real guidance and supervision, Lamar is conned into a bowling scheme by Billy Jenks, an older teen. Despite warnings from his best friend, Sergio, he gets in too deep with this and pays the price, serving the book's lessons: stay true to yourself, don't cheat your way to success, and trust those who are looking out for you. All good lessons for teens as they become more likely to be influenced by peers and others around them. It's hard, at that age, to read a person for who they are and Lamar makes the double mistake of not trusting his friend (an authentic relationship) and instead trusting Billy (a stranger and a scammer).
Another goal of Lamar's is to have a girlfriend, and he and Sergio go on daily quests to pick up girls. A lot of the language around this felt very dated. They essentially sound like mini-Fresh Princes, calling girls "fine honeys" every other paragraph, which was so goofy to me because I love Fresh Prince, but I don't know how this dialogue would play with the current teen demographic. At best, they might find it a little cringey? I also think thirteen is such a transitional age - while many of them have romantic inclinations, many are so far off that path and still solidly in kid-ville that this characterization might alienate them. All this to say, the toxic masculinity is strong here.
Implausibility is a big issue I had with much of this book, and Lamar
The representation is diverse and superb. Most of the characters are Black and brown, we get the underrepresented sport of bowling, and Lamar is severely asthmatic (he's prohibited from high-intensity sports, uses his inhaler so much I feared he'd overdose, and does breathing exercises I'd never heard of; as a mild asthma sufferer, this is all the exact opposite of my experience with the illness, but ymmv??). Despite my other feelings about the book, I applaud the diversity.
Interested to hear the kid's perspective on this. The lessons are meaningful, there was just too much girl-chasing and implausibility around them.
Teen is reading this for school, so I picked it up, curious as to why advanced middle school kids were reading a book categorized for elementary ages. Content-wise, it is very much a novel for teens, as there are mature plot elements. Not too sure on the reading level itself, but I also don't have any frame of reference for what literacy is actually like among teens in the U.S. right now. I mean, I see them buying adult romance, but that's probably written at a fifth grade level, sooooo...
Lamar Washington is a 13yo badass bowler who just wants some attention. Either from his father, who's often busy working or doting on his older son, a star basketball player, or from girls. He seems very independent for his age, often left unsupervised to walk to the bowling alley and hang out eating junk food all day. He even goes to a doctor's appointment by himself?! If you haven't guessed by this point, his mother is dead, a trope that persists in stories that requires kids to be free for adventure and independence. What's left is a father trying his best but often missing the mark and two sons grieving and seeking their father's approval.
Lacking that real guidance and supervision, Lamar is conned into a bowling scheme by Billy Jenks, an older teen. Despite warnings from his best friend, Sergio, he gets in too deep with this and pays the price, serving the book's lessons: stay true to yourself, don't cheat your way to success, and trust those who are looking out for you. All good lessons for teens as they become more likely to be influenced by peers and others around them. It's hard, at that age, to read a person for who they are and Lamar makes the double mistake of not trusting his friend (an authentic relationship) and instead trusting Billy (a stranger and a scammer).
Another goal of Lamar's is to have a girlfriend, and he and Sergio go on daily quests to pick up girls. A lot of the language around this felt very dated. They essentially sound like mini-Fresh Princes, calling girls "fine honeys" every other paragraph, which was so goofy to me because I love Fresh Prince, but I don't know how this dialogue would play with the current teen demographic. At best, they might find it a little cringey? I also think thirteen is such a transitional age - while many of them have romantic inclinations, many are so far off that path and still solidly in kid-ville that this characterization might alienate them. All this to say, the toxic masculinity is strong here.
Implausibility is a big issue I had with much of this book, and Lamar
The representation is diverse and superb. Most of the characters are Black and brown, we get the underrepresented sport of bowling, and Lamar is severely asthmatic (he's prohibited from high-intensity sports, uses his inhaler so much I feared he'd overdose, and does breathing exercises I'd never heard of; as a mild asthma sufferer, this is all the exact opposite of my experience with the illness, but ymmv??). Despite my other feelings about the book, I applaud the diversity.
Interested to hear the kid's perspective on this. The lessons are meaningful, there was just too much girl-chasing and implausibility around them.
January 19, 2011
There aren't very many books for middle graders or teens that feature bowling, and even fewer that feature African-American kids who like to bowl. So just on that notion alone, this book is pretty unique. But it is also a fun story about two very different brothers, about friendship, and the value of being true to yourself. Lamar is the self-titled "King of Striker's", the best bowler at the local bowling alley. Since his asthma prevents him from doing any other sports, unlike his basketball superstar brother Xavier, Lamar has developed a love of bowling along with his great skills--and he's excited about the upcoming visit of his bowling hero Bubba Sanders to the local lanes. But then Lamar gets tangled in a less-than-honest easy-money scheme. And that leads him to do something that threatens not only his integrity, his relationships with his best friend and with a girl he hopes to date, but also his brother's future as a basketball standout.
I really enjoyed this book for the characters, and the humor (Lamar's constant urge to out-do his friend Sergio at everything; his attempts to sound cool in front of girls that backfire), and the way Lamar overcomes his problems on his own merits. My only minor quibble was with the overuse of slang in the beginning; I think the ethnicity and age of the characters could have been expressed with a few less "handle your business" and "glob of laugh-out-loud", etc. I don't think the slang dates the book, it was just a bit much to wade through in every sentence. But a great first novel, with endearing memorable characters and a good story.
I really enjoyed this book for the characters, and the humor (Lamar's constant urge to out-do his friend Sergio at everything; his attempts to sound cool in front of girls that backfire), and the way Lamar overcomes his problems on his own merits. My only minor quibble was with the overuse of slang in the beginning; I think the ethnicity and age of the characters could have been expressed with a few less "handle your business" and "glob of laugh-out-loud", etc. I don't think the slang dates the book, it was just a bit much to wade through in every sentence. But a great first novel, with endearing memorable characters and a good story.
March 27, 2014
Crystal Allen has written a novel for middle school readers that will take them on a journey of laughter, growing up, family and neighbors, and a 13 year old's first kiss. I laughed, cried and lived with Lamar's big, bad error and imagined his mom by his side, loving him no matter what. I applauded his father throughout and loved his neighbors and best friends. Thanks, Crystal Allen, for reminding us, through Lamar, that we can survive loss and mistakes and that good people are always there for us. Holy cream cheese and crackers- write us some more!
March 22, 2024
It’s not often that the four of us give a middle grade novel a five-star rating but this was just what all of us needed. Basketball, bowling, and rejection. Sibling rivalry, black culture, and redemption. It really was beautiful.
November 14, 2018
Crystal Allen captures the life of a middle school boy named Lamar on a quest to buy his favorite bowling gear, kiss a girl, and gain the attention of his father. The character of Lamar is well developed. Allen does a fantastic job of creating the life of a middle school boy. Lamar loves bowling and his idol is a bowling professional named Bubba. While he struggles with good and bad friendships, he also experiences trouble with his personal relationships with his father and brother. In the end, Lamar overcomes it all and is able to place his own trophy on the mantel for an unexpected cause. As a reader, it was great to see Lamar develop, grow, and mature throughout the book. This is a great story, and it is definitely worth having in a middle school library.
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December 1, 2014This review was originally posted on The Librarian Writer blog.
I started reading Lamar's Bad Prank during the summer but got distracted by, you know, life. But I'm glad I picked up Lamar's story again because it's a flat-out great read.
Lamar is a 13-year-old bowling fanatic living in a working class neighborhood in Indiana. His older brother Xavier is a basketball phenom and in his basketball crazy town, Lamar doesn't get any respect for being the King of Striker's, the local bowling alley. But Bubba Sanders, Lamar's bowling hero, is coming to Striker's on the Fourth of July and Lamar is planning on having the best summer ever.
Of course it all goes horribly wrong. Lamar's history with pulling pranks hinders his wooing of a local girl. Lamar begins hanging out with Billy Jenks, a decidedly bad influence who soon has Lamar hustling bowling games. And that leaves Lamar's best friend, Sergio, high and dry.
Lamar's home life isn't so great, either. Since his mom died, he and Xavier are always at odds and their working-two-jobs dad doesn't realize how out of control it can get until it's too late. Because by then, Lamar pulls the biggest prank EVER to get back at Xavier. A prank so big the whole town ends up hating on Lamar.
Crystal Allen's writing is both hilarious and touching. Her characters zing, especially Lamar, whose voice is dead-on perfect. The ending wraps up nicely, without being forced or sentimental.
Lamar's Bad Prank would make a great recommendation to anyone looking for a boy's book, a humor book, or a sports book.
I started reading Lamar's Bad Prank during the summer but got distracted by, you know, life. But I'm glad I picked up Lamar's story again because it's a flat-out great read.
Lamar is a 13-year-old bowling fanatic living in a working class neighborhood in Indiana. His older brother Xavier is a basketball phenom and in his basketball crazy town, Lamar doesn't get any respect for being the King of Striker's, the local bowling alley. But Bubba Sanders, Lamar's bowling hero, is coming to Striker's on the Fourth of July and Lamar is planning on having the best summer ever.
Of course it all goes horribly wrong. Lamar's history with pulling pranks hinders his wooing of a local girl. Lamar begins hanging out with Billy Jenks, a decidedly bad influence who soon has Lamar hustling bowling games. And that leaves Lamar's best friend, Sergio, high and dry.
Lamar's home life isn't so great, either. Since his mom died, he and Xavier are always at odds and their working-two-jobs dad doesn't realize how out of control it can get until it's too late. Because by then, Lamar pulls the biggest prank EVER to get back at Xavier. A prank so big the whole town ends up hating on Lamar.
Crystal Allen's writing is both hilarious and touching. Her characters zing, especially Lamar, whose voice is dead-on perfect. The ending wraps up nicely, without being forced or sentimental.
Lamar's Bad Prank would make a great recommendation to anyone looking for a boy's book, a humor book, or a sports book.
December 17, 2016
I love this book! And to think I would have never known it existed if it hadn't been for my little reluctant reader. He chose it from the multitude of books in his classroom. I don't know what drew my son to it other than his claim that it didn't seem lame.
In addition to being a reluctant reader my son has ADHD. For all his best intentions he sometimes cannot begin what he sets off to do and this was a book we had to read together. He loves it when I read to him and this book became an experience for both of us. The best thing was that he picked it up and finished the book on his own!
Crystal Allen's Lamar is a great character. Following him, in the first person narrative, was not only fun, but also addicting. We both wanted to know what happened next. Putting the book down was hard. We did, however, stop many instances to discuss what was going on and about the situations Lamar found himself in. Bonus points: I got some parenting done. I am proud of my son's expression and his views on things. I think of all the books we've read together that this was the most satisfying and a great bonding experience.
I recommend this book to everyone. It is a great read. Crystal Allen is a masterful story teller and her characters are vibrant; the situations are easily imagined; and the character arcs are fulfilling. Hands down, this is one of my favorite books.
In addition to being a reluctant reader my son has ADHD. For all his best intentions he sometimes cannot begin what he sets off to do and this was a book we had to read together. He loves it when I read to him and this book became an experience for both of us. The best thing was that he picked it up and finished the book on his own!
Crystal Allen's Lamar is a great character. Following him, in the first person narrative, was not only fun, but also addicting. We both wanted to know what happened next. Putting the book down was hard. We did, however, stop many instances to discuss what was going on and about the situations Lamar found himself in. Bonus points: I got some parenting done. I am proud of my son's expression and his views on things. I think of all the books we've read together that this was the most satisfying and a great bonding experience.
I recommend this book to everyone. It is a great read. Crystal Allen is a masterful story teller and her characters are vibrant; the situations are easily imagined; and the character arcs are fulfilling. Hands down, this is one of my favorite books.
January 25, 2013
Any book that makes me laugh and cry gets all stars. I had a hard time, at first, adjusting to the strong voice in this book. But eventually I fell in love with Lamar's 13-year-old character. He has an older brother who bullies him, he has a dad who doesn't understand him, his mother is already dead, he's got wheezy lungs that won't let him play any sport other than bowling, and he pulls dozens of immature pranks.
As soon as I got over Lamar's bravado and comic-book style word choice, the story caught hold of me and I couldn't quit reading. The descriptions of bowling and the bowling scene are priceless. You just want Lamar to succeed, even though the odds are stacked against him and he makes terrible choices.
As soon as I got over Lamar's bravado and comic-book style word choice, the story caught hold of me and I couldn't quit reading. The descriptions of bowling and the bowling scene are priceless. You just want Lamar to succeed, even though the odds are stacked against him and he makes terrible choices.
October 2, 2018
Thirteen-year-old Lamar Washington is the "King of Striker's." Striker's is the local bowling alley and center of his universe. Lamar has a great summer lined up with his best friend Sergio, one superfine new girl and Bubba Sanders, his pro bowling idol who's coming to Striker's for a fourth of July celebration to beat all celebrations. S'all good until Lamar's led astray by a neighborhood hustler and a poorly chosen prank.
This book is a "Gotta Read." Crystal Allen did a fabulous job of getting inside the mind of a 13-yr.-old boy and his passion for bowling, a certain girl, a Bubba-sized trophy and the hypnotic aroma of bowling alley pizza!
Thanks to Crystal Allen for sharing Lamar's story,
Al Monte
This book is a "Gotta Read." Crystal Allen did a fabulous job of getting inside the mind of a 13-yr.-old boy and his passion for bowling, a certain girl, a Bubba-sized trophy and the hypnotic aroma of bowling alley pizza!
Thanks to Crystal Allen for sharing Lamar's story,
Al Monte
February 18, 2013
Crystal Allen, what a great new up and coming writing!! The story of Lamar would be a great book for teen boys. Lamar has a back story which deserves a prequel, he has pulled a lot of pranks almost to point of being a prank bully. The shows the legacy of pranking in his social life with other other students. Now that he wants to been seen as serious and more adult his prankster history marks him. Lamar is also dealing with some serious family issues, and find his way into a relationship with a kid who hustle's Lamar favorite game bowling. The writer Allen's has a lot of surprises for the reader and brings to life Lamar a teen just trying to figure things out who loves to bowl.
December 12, 2011
that was an awesome book it does not take long to get into and you will never get out of the book you will always wonder whats next this and ok for now winners or runners up I know both will win something
January 12, 2012
Love the story; I enjoyed the promotion of bowling as a sport!
However, I was distracted by the audiobook narrator. The voices were either non-existent or way over-the-top.
However, I was distracted by the audiobook narrator. The voices were either non-existent or way over-the-top.
March 4, 2012
excellent! a book about making mistakes and picking yourself up... bowling is only a set piece... it's a friendship coming of age story, not a sports book.
December 10, 2012
COOLL BOOK
September 16, 2017
I wish there's a movie! :(
February 15, 2020
If you can get past the intense suburban teen-speak in the first chapter I think you will enjoy this story of a boy who loves to bowl, gets his first girlfriend, misses his deceased Mom terribly, and has conflict with his big brother. The conflict leads to the Bad Prank. These kids got to me. BUT.....
I guess I'm an old prude for sure because I felt uncomfortable reading about 13 year-olds "swapping spit".
I guess I'm an old prude for sure because I felt uncomfortable reading about 13 year-olds "swapping spit".
February 22, 2011
Some of the 'lingo' is rather cheesy in this book. In fact, at times it seemed outdated. On the very first page Lamar is listening to his best friend Sergio 'bump his gums'. I've never heard that expression before so I asked my dad who knows a lot of slang. He said that expression was older than he was (he grew up in the '80s), but hey, maybe it's popular in Indiana? There are a few other examples of really cheesy dialogue/comebacks but in the end, I think it all adds to Lamar's charm. I was amazed at Lamar's confidence, but being totally honest, it's not at all surprising. I think (for some reason) it's a lot less surprising to see a young and confident main character. In middle school, I think many guys think they are invincible, whereas many girls are a bit shyer. Regardless, Lamar reminded me of my brother and all the other young guys I know who love to trash talk. Although I did think Lamar's constant strutting was a bit much. The author juggles a lot of storylines and I do think the ball was dropped a few times. Each storyline is interesting and starts off well developed, but a couple were quickly wrapped up, much of the action occurring off the page (*cough* Sergio and Tasha *cough*). Lamar and his father clearly have issues they need to work out and everything seemed to get really happy really fast, but Lamar is just so gosh-darn adorable that you can't help but want him to have a cheesy ol' neat ending.
As you can probably tell, I love Lamar. I want to meet Lamar (actually I've already met Lamar and been annoyed by him but guys like Lamar seem less annoying in books). Lamar is one of the most well rounded characters I've come across. He has seriously debilitating asthma and he managed to tug at my heartstrings when he wanted to play soccer to impress a girl (Makeeda), but his doctor said that based on his health that was just not possible. I love soccer so I was able to sympathize with wanting to play (just not for the same reason) and I would be crushed too if I was told I couldn't play because of asthma. Lamar has two personalities, at home he is quiet, afraid of his brother, trying to help out his dad anyway he can since money is tight. Xavier borders on only being a jerk, with no shot at redemption, but there are enough minor details given to make Xavier slightly more well rounded. Lamar lives in absolute terror of X and it's not unjust, X has anger management and refuses to take his medication. But X's anger management is not used as an excuse for his meanness towards his brother and I appreciated that X does not get off easy. A person can only take so much before they snap and Lamar's breaking point is realistic and frustrating. Readers will be covering their eyes hoping that Lamar will not actually go through with his plan (encouraged by Billy Jenks), but unable to look away.
How Lamar's Bad Prank Won a Bubba-Sized Trophy is a jolly, globful of laugh-loud (as Lamar would say) read that still manages to effectively portray more serious topics. Lamar's mother has died and his father has not exactly been a comforting presence to either of his boys. It was refreshing to see a contemporary book where the father wasn't outwardly cruel, instead Lamar's father is drowning. He's so busy working not just to keep food on the table, but to pay for a few luxuries. Lamar is working class/middle class, he's not going to go hungry, but his dad works a lot to make sure Lamar can bowl and Xavier can continue to play basketball. Unfortunately, he doesn't help Lamar with much else. There are underlying class issues as well. Lamar's best friend, Sergio is rich and he can't understand why Lamar joins in Billy's bowling hustle. But many readers can understand it. Sergio gets a lot of extra things, pocket money, nice clothes, two loving parents, etc. Lamar has his bowling pass and the same old clothes, who wouldn't get tired of always being around someone who has so much more? I had feared that Lamar would fall into a pity me trap since he seems relatively innocent but he gets himself into some severe (well severe for a thirteen year old) scraps and he is held accountable. The consequences kind of stink, even though they are realistic. In addition to Lamar's trash talking about his bowling skills (he's so proud of his bowling, awww), his falling in-like with Makeeda is great (it's so wrong but I almost cried when he saw Makeeda who has apparently changed significantly since he last saw her and he called her 'Fivehead' to her face. After he tried to step to her. Oh Lamar :) I want more books like this. Funny with a more unusual sport played and a diverse cast. Sergio is Latino, Lamar is Black, but their story is universal. In fact, there are only slight hints that Lamar is Black and I love that.
As you can probably tell, I love Lamar. I want to meet Lamar (actually I've already met Lamar and been annoyed by him but guys like Lamar seem less annoying in books). Lamar is one of the most well rounded characters I've come across. He has seriously debilitating asthma and he managed to tug at my heartstrings when he wanted to play soccer to impress a girl (Makeeda), but his doctor said that based on his health that was just not possible. I love soccer so I was able to sympathize with wanting to play (just not for the same reason) and I would be crushed too if I was told I couldn't play because of asthma. Lamar has two personalities, at home he is quiet, afraid of his brother, trying to help out his dad anyway he can since money is tight. Xavier borders on only being a jerk, with no shot at redemption, but there are enough minor details given to make Xavier slightly more well rounded. Lamar lives in absolute terror of X and it's not unjust, X has anger management and refuses to take his medication. But X's anger management is not used as an excuse for his meanness towards his brother and I appreciated that X does not get off easy. A person can only take so much before they snap and Lamar's breaking point is realistic and frustrating. Readers will be covering their eyes hoping that Lamar will not actually go through with his plan (encouraged by Billy Jenks), but unable to look away.
How Lamar's Bad Prank Won a Bubba-Sized Trophy is a jolly, globful of laugh-loud (as Lamar would say) read that still manages to effectively portray more serious topics. Lamar's mother has died and his father has not exactly been a comforting presence to either of his boys. It was refreshing to see a contemporary book where the father wasn't outwardly cruel, instead Lamar's father is drowning. He's so busy working not just to keep food on the table, but to pay for a few luxuries. Lamar is working class/middle class, he's not going to go hungry, but his dad works a lot to make sure Lamar can bowl and Xavier can continue to play basketball. Unfortunately, he doesn't help Lamar with much else. There are underlying class issues as well. Lamar's best friend, Sergio is rich and he can't understand why Lamar joins in Billy's bowling hustle. But many readers can understand it. Sergio gets a lot of extra things, pocket money, nice clothes, two loving parents, etc. Lamar has his bowling pass and the same old clothes, who wouldn't get tired of always being around someone who has so much more? I had feared that Lamar would fall into a pity me trap since he seems relatively innocent but he gets himself into some severe (well severe for a thirteen year old) scraps and he is held accountable. The consequences kind of stink, even though they are realistic. In addition to Lamar's trash talking about his bowling skills (he's so proud of his bowling, awww), his falling in-like with Makeeda is great (it's so wrong but I almost cried when he saw Makeeda who has apparently changed significantly since he last saw her and he called her 'Fivehead' to her face. After he tried to step to her. Oh Lamar :) I want more books like this. Funny with a more unusual sport played and a diverse cast. Sergio is Latino, Lamar is Black, but their story is universal. In fact, there are only slight hints that Lamar is Black and I love that.
April 28, 2011
"Crystal Allen’s How Lamar’s Bad Prank Won a Bubba-Sized Trophy drew me in from the very first pages where Lamar and his best friend Sergio are talking on the phone; the ribbing between the two, the obvious affection and juvenile flavoring. “Scared to face you? First, if I had your face, I’d sue my parents” (2), Lamar tells his friend. Lamar is cocksure and his wit and strut is equal parts painful and hilarious. He’s 13."
[...]
"How Lamar’s Bad Prank Won a Bubba-Sized Trophy deals in relationships, what creates them and makes them stick (blood, common interests). It is also about change. Lamar is known as a prankster from way back (like yesterday), but now that he is “romantically” inclined towards girls he wants them to take him seriously."
[...]
"The desire for second chances abound, as well as the desire to work past the things that might hold a body back, sink them in despair, or keep them flipping burgers at a local joint. Whether it is appearance, asthma, algebra, bad pranks, bad decisions, or bad reputations, Allen renders determined characters who buoy her book and bring it to home with a sense of hope and optimism. And they do it in a believable way—no happy ending here without some tough labor and introspection first. This is a novel with a work ethic that older generations will appreciate and many younger will find as a novelty—and cling to it.
Lamar is the first person narrator, and while this (and conversational styling) seems to be the narrative rage in juvenile literature, as a device it is completely organic to How Lamar’s Bad Prank Won a Bubba-Sized Trophy. Lamar will be the sweetest and funniest narrator you’ve had the pleasure to read this year.*
The title is long, but perfectly suited. The writing is good, really good. The delivery is fresh and well-played. Allen accomplishes a lot in 283 pages, while maintaining a pace that will propel a young reader disinterested in dramatics (as Lamar is just as disinterested). Humor balances the poignancy and Lamar’s aplomb balances the potential tragedies, creating a highly accessible and enjoyable novel for middle-schoolers and up.
I think this would be a fantastic read-aloud in middle-school. (Do they do that in middle school?) Looking for a book for a boy—this is a fail-safe gift to reader and non-. I highly recommend this read to everyone. If you are or ever have been adolescent, have a parent, a sibling, a best friend, a crush (for whom you tried to rhyme his or her impossible name into a poem). If you like to bowl or play basketball or soccer or have asthma. If you long to see protagonists who are not white.
How Lamar’s Bad Prank Won a Bubba-Sized Trophy is Crystal Allen’s debut. I am truly excited to see what she has for us next. This is a novel to read, and Allen is an author to look out for."
L @ omphaloskepsis
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"How Lamar’s Bad Prank Won a Bubba-Sized Trophy deals in relationships, what creates them and makes them stick (blood, common interests). It is also about change. Lamar is known as a prankster from way back (like yesterday), but now that he is “romantically” inclined towards girls he wants them to take him seriously."
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"The desire for second chances abound, as well as the desire to work past the things that might hold a body back, sink them in despair, or keep them flipping burgers at a local joint. Whether it is appearance, asthma, algebra, bad pranks, bad decisions, or bad reputations, Allen renders determined characters who buoy her book and bring it to home with a sense of hope and optimism. And they do it in a believable way—no happy ending here without some tough labor and introspection first. This is a novel with a work ethic that older generations will appreciate and many younger will find as a novelty—and cling to it.
Lamar is the first person narrator, and while this (and conversational styling) seems to be the narrative rage in juvenile literature, as a device it is completely organic to How Lamar’s Bad Prank Won a Bubba-Sized Trophy. Lamar will be the sweetest and funniest narrator you’ve had the pleasure to read this year.*
The title is long, but perfectly suited. The writing is good, really good. The delivery is fresh and well-played. Allen accomplishes a lot in 283 pages, while maintaining a pace that will propel a young reader disinterested in dramatics (as Lamar is just as disinterested). Humor balances the poignancy and Lamar’s aplomb balances the potential tragedies, creating a highly accessible and enjoyable novel for middle-schoolers and up.
I think this would be a fantastic read-aloud in middle-school. (Do they do that in middle school?) Looking for a book for a boy—this is a fail-safe gift to reader and non-. I highly recommend this read to everyone. If you are or ever have been adolescent, have a parent, a sibling, a best friend, a crush (for whom you tried to rhyme his or her impossible name into a poem). If you like to bowl or play basketball or soccer or have asthma. If you long to see protagonists who are not white.
How Lamar’s Bad Prank Won a Bubba-Sized Trophy is Crystal Allen’s debut. I am truly excited to see what she has for us next. This is a novel to read, and Allen is an author to look out for."
L @ omphaloskepsis
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November 23, 2011
[The Maddest, Baddest Synopsis Around…]
I am taking this synopsis straight from the author’s website for one simple reason: it is the waaay better than anything I could write!
Thirteen-year-old Lamar Washington is the maddest, baddest most spectacular bowler ever at Striker’s Bowling Paradise. But when it comes to girls, he doesn’t have game—not like his older brother Xavier the Basketball Savior. And certainly not like his best friend “Spanish fly guy” Sergio. So Lamar vows to spend the summer changing his image from dud to stud by finding a way to make money and snag a super fine Honey! When a crafty teenage thug invites Lamar to use his bowling skills to hustle, he seizes the opportunity. As his judgment blurs, Lamar makes an irreversible error, damaging every relationship in his life. Now, he must figure out how to mend those broken ties, no matter what it will cost him.
[I heart Lamar…]
Lamar Washington just might be in my Top Five Favorite Characters of All Time. This kid is unbelievably, insanely delightful! Like, Holy Crackers and Cream Cheese GREAT. You’ll love him from word one.
Don’t believe me? Here’s the opening paragraph of the book…and if this paragraph alone doesn’t make you want to strap on some bowling shoes (no matter how used and abused they be) and hang out with this kid, then…well, I’m not sure YA lit is the stuff for you!
“Since Saturday, I’ve fried Sergio like catfish, mashed him like potatoes, and creamed his corn in ten straight games of bowling. And it’s just the middle of the week. People call Wednesday “hump day,” but for Sergio it’s “kicked-in-the-rump day.” I’m his daddy now, the maddest, baddest, most spectacular bowler ever.”
Ok. Seriously. How can you resist a kid who talks like this?! And this is just the beginning of the genius turns-of-phrase and vocabulary this dude possesses. Reading this book is as refreshing as it is down right hilarious. Sure, at times his super-fly, hyped-up lingo comes off a little strong…but that’s why he’s so lovable. As fantastically cocky as he tries to be, underneath, Lamar is the sweetest superstar around.
But Lamar isn’t just good for laughs: this kid makes real decisions with real consequences, and he owns them. I love him for this, too. The “irreversible error” he makes isn’t something that’s so dramatic it shoves the story into a “moral tale”-spin. It’s a decision that makes sense to him at the time, one that any teen might make in real life. And Lamar has to face the consequences–and chooses to face them–in a way that is profound in its simplicity and honesty.
[TO CONTINUE READING, GO TO www.yaketyyaks.com]
I am taking this synopsis straight from the author’s website for one simple reason: it is the waaay better than anything I could write!
Thirteen-year-old Lamar Washington is the maddest, baddest most spectacular bowler ever at Striker’s Bowling Paradise. But when it comes to girls, he doesn’t have game—not like his older brother Xavier the Basketball Savior. And certainly not like his best friend “Spanish fly guy” Sergio. So Lamar vows to spend the summer changing his image from dud to stud by finding a way to make money and snag a super fine Honey! When a crafty teenage thug invites Lamar to use his bowling skills to hustle, he seizes the opportunity. As his judgment blurs, Lamar makes an irreversible error, damaging every relationship in his life. Now, he must figure out how to mend those broken ties, no matter what it will cost him.
[I heart Lamar…]
Lamar Washington just might be in my Top Five Favorite Characters of All Time. This kid is unbelievably, insanely delightful! Like, Holy Crackers and Cream Cheese GREAT. You’ll love him from word one.
Don’t believe me? Here’s the opening paragraph of the book…and if this paragraph alone doesn’t make you want to strap on some bowling shoes (no matter how used and abused they be) and hang out with this kid, then…well, I’m not sure YA lit is the stuff for you!
“Since Saturday, I’ve fried Sergio like catfish, mashed him like potatoes, and creamed his corn in ten straight games of bowling. And it’s just the middle of the week. People call Wednesday “hump day,” but for Sergio it’s “kicked-in-the-rump day.” I’m his daddy now, the maddest, baddest, most spectacular bowler ever.”
Ok. Seriously. How can you resist a kid who talks like this?! And this is just the beginning of the genius turns-of-phrase and vocabulary this dude possesses. Reading this book is as refreshing as it is down right hilarious. Sure, at times his super-fly, hyped-up lingo comes off a little strong…but that’s why he’s so lovable. As fantastically cocky as he tries to be, underneath, Lamar is the sweetest superstar around.
But Lamar isn’t just good for laughs: this kid makes real decisions with real consequences, and he owns them. I love him for this, too. The “irreversible error” he makes isn’t something that’s so dramatic it shoves the story into a “moral tale”-spin. It’s a decision that makes sense to him at the time, one that any teen might make in real life. And Lamar has to face the consequences–and chooses to face them–in a way that is profound in its simplicity and honesty.
[TO CONTINUE READING, GO TO www.yaketyyaks.com]
April 7, 2011
13yr old Lamar Washington is one of the best bowlers in Coffin, IN. Unfortunately not many people appreciate the sport of bowling, Lamar wants to change that. He also no longer wants to be known as the prankster, so girls take him seriously. Lamar's ready for his first girlfriend.
Last year Lamar and Sergio, his best friend played tricks on Makeda, giving her the nickname fivehead. When Lamar spots Makeda at Strikers he doesn't recognize her. Now Lamar is doing everything can to prove he's a different person and can be trusted.
Lamar's older brother Xavier is a basketball star. Lamar's dad is too busy working and praising Xavier's game to notice Lamar. At home its all about Xavier the basketball hero. Lamar spends most of his time at Strikers Bowling Paradise. Tired of always being broke and borrowing money from his best friend Sergio, Lamar decides to team up with Billy Jenks. Billy is all about himself, making money and is bad news. Lamar's friendship with Sergio suffer after he starts hustling with Billy.
But Lamar likes finally having money in his pockets. He wants to use the money to impress Makeda Phillips buy his dream pro bowling ball, the pro thunder by Bubba Sanders. Sanders is Lamar's favorite bowler and he's coming to town. Before Bubba arrives, Lamar does one last big prank that could get him in a lot of trouble.
I thought Lamar had a very over the top personality. It was a little too much for me. Though there is something to be said for a 13 yr old Black boy with a lot of confidence. I just didn't connect with Lamar the way I would've liked. At times I felt his language was dated.
I do like that the author gives the reader many sides of Lamar. At home Lamar is the silent victim of his brother's violent outburst. With Makeda, he's nervous, doing his best not to say the wrong thing. Its very nice to read a middle grade novel that deals with a first relationship from the boys point of view. One of the books strengths was Lamar's friendship with Sergio. I really enjoyed the back and forth between them.
The story has a lot of funny moments. One in particular that had me laughing so hard it hurt. This was a well rounded story. I think a lot of middle grade readers will enjoy it.
Last year Lamar and Sergio, his best friend played tricks on Makeda, giving her the nickname fivehead. When Lamar spots Makeda at Strikers he doesn't recognize her. Now Lamar is doing everything can to prove he's a different person and can be trusted.
Lamar's older brother Xavier is a basketball star. Lamar's dad is too busy working and praising Xavier's game to notice Lamar. At home its all about Xavier the basketball hero. Lamar spends most of his time at Strikers Bowling Paradise. Tired of always being broke and borrowing money from his best friend Sergio, Lamar decides to team up with Billy Jenks. Billy is all about himself, making money and is bad news. Lamar's friendship with Sergio suffer after he starts hustling with Billy.
But Lamar likes finally having money in his pockets. He wants to use the money to impress Makeda Phillips buy his dream pro bowling ball, the pro thunder by Bubba Sanders. Sanders is Lamar's favorite bowler and he's coming to town. Before Bubba arrives, Lamar does one last big prank that could get him in a lot of trouble.
I thought Lamar had a very over the top personality. It was a little too much for me. Though there is something to be said for a 13 yr old Black boy with a lot of confidence. I just didn't connect with Lamar the way I would've liked. At times I felt his language was dated.
I do like that the author gives the reader many sides of Lamar. At home Lamar is the silent victim of his brother's violent outburst. With Makeda, he's nervous, doing his best not to say the wrong thing. Its very nice to read a middle grade novel that deals with a first relationship from the boys point of view. One of the books strengths was Lamar's friendship with Sergio. I really enjoyed the back and forth between them.
The story has a lot of funny moments. One in particular that had me laughing so hard it hurt. This was a well rounded story. I think a lot of middle grade readers will enjoy it.
August 12, 2023
Lamar's brother Xavier is the basketball superstar in town and has lots of trophies to prove it. His weak spot, though, is algebra, and even if the scouts who are coming to watch him play like him, he can't graduate without passing his final exam. Meanwhile, 13-year-old Lamar gets caught up in a bowling hustling scam with a known juvenile delinquent because of his desire to buy a Bubba Sanders bowling ball for the sport in which he excels. The empty spot on the mantel for his own trophy, left by his recently deceased mother, looms over him, especially when his brother keeps teasing him. How can he get a trophy in a sport that gets no respect in his Indiana town of Coffin? As the brother’s rivalry and jealously come to a head, Lamar decides to pull a prank to embarrass his brother. The outcome, however, is so devastating that Lamar is not sure he will ever be able to make it right again.
Despite the serious themes that run throughout, this is a very funny book suitable for readers in grades 5-8. One of the nice things about it is that it's about a typical middle class African American family with good kids and parental role models. A neighborhood of people care about Lamar and his brother and everyone is looking out for them. There's no drugs, no sex, and no profanity, but includes difficult decisions for middle school kids and the consequences for choosing poorly. There's a lot of harmless teasing between Lamar and his best friend Sergio that is laugh out loud funny. And there is the ever present quest for a girlfriend that middle grade boys will relate to. You can practically see Lamar strutting down the bowling alley trying to impress his "girl". Highly recommended.
Despite the serious themes that run throughout, this is a very funny book suitable for readers in grades 5-8. One of the nice things about it is that it's about a typical middle class African American family with good kids and parental role models. A neighborhood of people care about Lamar and his brother and everyone is looking out for them. There's no drugs, no sex, and no profanity, but includes difficult decisions for middle school kids and the consequences for choosing poorly. There's a lot of harmless teasing between Lamar and his best friend Sergio that is laugh out loud funny. And there is the ever present quest for a girlfriend that middle grade boys will relate to. You can practically see Lamar strutting down the bowling alley trying to impress his "girl". Highly recommended.
Read
December 5, 2012Allen, Crystal. (2011). How Lamar’s Bad Prank Won a Bubba-Sized Trophy. New York: HarperCollins/Balzer & Bray. 288 pp. ISBN 978-0-06-199272-8 (Hard Cover); $16.99.*
Quiz time: How many middle school books are in print featuring a trash talkin’, hip hoppin’, African American bowling champ? Can anyone name even one bowling book novel for middle school students? I rest my case for purchasing this book! For any of its way too many plot threads, I highly recommend purchasing this book strictly on the basis of Lamar’s voice. This asthmatic wannabe athlete is a hoot and a half. His plotting and plans to win a girl friend will have middle school students howling with laughter (and their teachers too). Lamar is known as a prankster, but he discovers that girls are not necessarily attracted to pranks (and especially not attracted to boys who pull pranks on them). Lamar is convinced that if he is able to win the special Bubba Sanders bowling ball, all of his many schemes, especially those involving getting a girl friend, will come true. Along the way we deal with sibling abuse, asthma, gambling, the death of his mother, gold diggers, and more. Lamar’s voice is the strike that spares the reader from getting too bogged down with all the separate plot pins. Do your middle school readers a favor and purchase this often-hilarious book for your library.
Quiz time: How many middle school books are in print featuring a trash talkin’, hip hoppin’, African American bowling champ? Can anyone name even one bowling book novel for middle school students? I rest my case for purchasing this book! For any of its way too many plot threads, I highly recommend purchasing this book strictly on the basis of Lamar’s voice. This asthmatic wannabe athlete is a hoot and a half. His plotting and plans to win a girl friend will have middle school students howling with laughter (and their teachers too). Lamar is known as a prankster, but he discovers that girls are not necessarily attracted to pranks (and especially not attracted to boys who pull pranks on them). Lamar is convinced that if he is able to win the special Bubba Sanders bowling ball, all of his many schemes, especially those involving getting a girl friend, will come true. Along the way we deal with sibling abuse, asthma, gambling, the death of his mother, gold diggers, and more. Lamar’s voice is the strike that spares the reader from getting too bogged down with all the separate plot pins. Do your middle school readers a favor and purchase this often-hilarious book for your library.
October 9, 2013
I really enjoyed this book! I think it is a very well written story and hits on deeper levels than one might think. However, I can go without hearing "Holy Guacamole!" or "Holy Crackers and Cream Cheese!" ever again ;)
Lamar, the main character, lives with his father and older brother. Their family is still healing after the loss of Lamar's mother. Lamar is known for being the king of pranks and the king of Striker's, the local bowling alley. His older brother is known as "Xavier the basketball savior" and is loved by everyone in the town of Coffin, Indiana. Xavier has many trophies on the mantle in the living room but one space on the mantle has been reserved for Lamar's first trophy, per a note from their mother. Lamar has asthma and the only sport he can play is bowling. Xavier bullies Lamar and he decides to get back at him with the biggest prank ever...turns out, he bit off more than he can chew! Throughout this story, Lamar grows and becomes more confident and comfortable with himself. Also, his family unites and their bond tightens.
Lamar, the main character, lives with his father and older brother. Their family is still healing after the loss of Lamar's mother. Lamar is known for being the king of pranks and the king of Striker's, the local bowling alley. His older brother is known as "Xavier the basketball savior" and is loved by everyone in the town of Coffin, Indiana. Xavier has many trophies on the mantle in the living room but one space on the mantle has been reserved for Lamar's first trophy, per a note from their mother. Lamar has asthma and the only sport he can play is bowling. Xavier bullies Lamar and he decides to get back at him with the biggest prank ever...turns out, he bit off more than he can chew! Throughout this story, Lamar grows and becomes more confident and comfortable with himself. Also, his family unites and their bond tightens.
May 1, 2011
A fascinating mix of a too little lauded sport (bowling) and a unique protagonist. Lamar's a bowling king in his small time Indiana town. The problem with that? His brother's a basketball superstar and in Indiana that's all anyone ever cares about. With his severe asthma Lamar can't possibly compete, so he turns his attention instead on getting a lady, palling around with his best friend, and maybe someday meeting his bowling idol Bubba. So when Lamar succeeds in finding a fine honey and gets to make some money on the side hustling for cash, he thinks he has it made. Unfortunately for him, one poorly planned prank blows everything for him and he's forced to try to make amends by any means necessary. Fun writing (though the slang's a bit dated) and it's nice to see a contemporary African-American guy in a middle grade novel. Good for those folks looking for something with some serious issues but that's still a fun and funny read. - B
May 13, 2012
It is a great book about a boy named Lamar. I definently think it has a shot at winning the newberry award. Well Lamar loves bowling and about everyday he goes bowling and he gos with his best friend Sergio. He goes into Strikers which is the bowling place he bowls at and he saw a sign saying that Bubba Sanders Lamars favorite bowler will be coming to Strikers on the 4th of July. Well he will be giving out bowling supplies and gear. You have to write an essay and win to get some gear. Well a guy named Billy tells him about he doesnt need to write an essay he could just get the money by playing bowling for money. Well he ends up making over $400 and he wants a new bowling ball. He falls in love with a girl named Makeda eventually then gets in a conflict with his brother and gos to the Y where his brother plays basketball and pulls the fire alarm and looses his girl and best friend. WILL HE GET BACK HIS GIRL AND FRIENDS?
February 4, 2016
Lamar Washington loves bowling. He's the king of Striker's Bowling Paradise and he hangs out there everyday during summer vacation with his best friend Sergio, bowling and checking out cute girls. He reveres bowling pro Bubba Sanders and looks forward to his July 4th visit to the lanes. But Lamar gets caught up in Billy Jenks' hustling scheme, and his head is turned around by the money they make hustling on the lanes. Additionally, friction is mounting with big brother Xavier, a star high school basketball player. Lamar puts up a big front with the girls and his hustling, but inside he's still an insecure kid, wondering if he said or did the right thing, and that adds to the humor of his story. The publisher lists this book as for ages 8-12, but given how much Lamar and Sergio eyeball the girls and discuss hooking up (not sexually in this case, just kissing), I'd say this is better suited for ages 11-14.
February 23, 2011
I was lucky enough to get my hands on an arc for this delightfully hilarious and fun middle grade novel. I love the way debut author Crystal Allen developed Lamar Washington. His family is believable and you can keenly feel the way Lamar wants to do what he loves, but also struggles due to his asthma by not fitting in by being a part of 'cool' sports -- like his brother, Xavier the Basketball Savior. As Lamar tries to make his own dreams come true, he winds up working like a hustler and pulls a prank that turns all the people he cares about against him. The characters all came alive and I loved Lamar, his best friend Sergio, and the girl Lamar's crazy for, Makeda. Allen doesn't make it easy for Lamar to work out the problems he gets himself into, and by the end you'll agree that Lamar's Bad Prank is a winner of a book.
August 11, 2011
Things aren't great at home since Lamar's mother died. His father only seems to have time for work and his older brother Xavior the basketball savior and Xavior hates Lamar's guts. Lamar loves to bowl though and spends his free time at the local lanes hanging with his best friend, Sergio. One day Lamar subs in a game with Billy Jenks who has been to juvie boot camp several times, and Billy pays him! Lamar thinks he's found the good life - bowl when Billy sets up a game and make some cash doing something he loves. He and Billy seem to have so much in common; maybe Billy is more misunderstood than bad kid. As the summer goes on though, the stakes get higher and Lamar, influenced by Billy, begins to make some bad decisions. The consequences of his actions have a ripple effect that Lamar hadn't foreseen and is not sure he can overcome.
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