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56 pages 1 hour read

The Perfect Shot

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2003

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Book Brief

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Elaine Marie Alphin

The Perfect Shot

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2003
Book Details
Pages

360

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Indiana • Contemporary

Topic
Publication Year

2003

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-18 years

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Super Short Summary

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

Reviews & Readership

4.1

670 ratings

71%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

11%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

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.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Perfect Shot?

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.

4.1

670 ratings

71%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

11%

Not a fan

Character List

Brian Hammet

A 17-year-old high school senior and the captain of his basketball team, known for his leadership and compassionate nature as he navigates personal loss and complex social dynamics.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Book Details
Pages

360

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Indiana • Contemporary

Topic
Publication Year

2003

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-18 years

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