56 pages • 1 hour read
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360
Novel • Fiction
Indiana • Contemporary
2003
YA
12-18 years
In Elaine Marie Alphin's 2005 novel, The Perfect Shot, high school basketball player Brian Hammet navigates the trauma of his girlfriend Amanda's murder while working on a history project about the Leo Frank trial, which parallels the current trial of Amanda's father, Michael Daine. Through his relationships and facing various challenges, Brian learns the complexities of honesty and loyalty. The novel tackles themes including grief, racial injustice, and murder.
Suspenseful
Challenging
Mysterious
Emotional
Dark
670 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
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The Perfect Shot by Elaine Marie Alphin is praised for its gripping plot and well-developed characters. Critics commend its exploration of themes like justice and morality. However, some readers find the pacing uneven and certain plot twists predictable. Overall, it's a compelling read that effectively combines mystery with thought-provoking issues.
Fans of compelling, thought-provoking mysteries with strong character development and social themes will find The Perfect Shot by Elaine Marie Alphin captivating. This novel is ideal for readers who enjoyed John Grisham’s Theodore Boone: Kid Lawyer or Lois Duncan’s suspenseful young adult tales like I Know What You Did Last Summer.
670 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Todd Pollian
An outsider at school who initially clashes with Brian but becomes a trusted ally, sharing a mutual interest in justice and revealing personal hardships that strengthen their bond.
Julius Malik
Brian’s best friend and the star of the basketball team, whose experience with racial profiling significantly impacts his relationships and perspective on trust and identity.
Mr. Fortner
Brian’s insightful history teacher, who encourages students to understand the cyclical nature of history and engage with social and political issues through thought-provoking assignments.
Mr. Daine
Amanda’s father, who is on trial for the murder of his family, representing the complexities of character judgment and the importance of a fair trial within the justice system.
Mr. Hammet
Brian’s father, who reflects the struggle between following passion and dealing with life's setbacks, initially cautious but ultimately inspired by Brian’s actions and sense of justice.
360
Novel • Fiction
Indiana • Contemporary
2003
YA
12-18 years
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