Plot Summary

Rucker Park Setup

Paul Volponi
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Rucker Park Setup

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2007

Book Brief

Paul Volponi

Rucker Park Setup

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2007
Book Details
Pages

160

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Harlem, New York City • Contemporary

Publication Year

2007

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-18 years

Lexile Level

770L

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Super Short Summary

In Rucker Park Setup by Paul Volponi, best friends Mackey and J.R. dream of playing professional basketball and join a local league, but J.R. is tragically killed, leading Mackey to struggle with guilt and the decision of whether to reveal the killer’s identity. Set in Harlem, New York, the novel addresses themes of competition, jealousy, and conflict. Contains detailed depictions of violence and trauma.

Suspenseful

Gritty

Emotional

Dark

Reviews & Readership

4.2

681 ratings

71%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Paul Volponi's Rucker Park Setup is hailed for its engaging narrative centered around basketball and urban youth struggles. Readers appreciate the authentic portrayal of teenage characters and the gripping plot. However, some critics believe the story's predictability and the pace can detract from its impact. Despite this, it remains a compelling read for young adults.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Rucker Park Setup?

Readers who enjoy Rucker Park Setup by Paul Volponi are typically teens and young adults who are fans of realistic fiction, urban settings, and sports narratives. Comparable to Walter Dean Myers's Hoops, these readers appreciate gripping stories that intertwine basketball with deep, personal challenges and societal issues.

4.2

681 ratings

71%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

160

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Harlem, New York City • Contemporary

Publication Year

2007

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-18 years

Lexile Level

770L

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