STRETCH SMITH MAKES A BASKET

This book- format and typography- looks young, but the content and age level of the boys is definitely Junior High. ""Stretch"" Smith, product of a rural school is tall for his age, awkward and bewildered, and finds ninth grade in the big consolidated High School, a formidable proposition. He gets off on the wrong foot continually, but finds himself when it comes to basketball, for which he is a natural. Then- by almost unanimous choice, he is chosen President of his ""homeroom"". Some trials, accidents and slips in his studies beset him and threaten his athletic career. But he finally gets into his stride, and adjusts to the new world of High School life. It is a good story, with lots of sound, basketball material, plus a fair balance of emphasis on school work, school activities, group spirit, self government, adult and junior interrelationship. The pattern of achievement is in the groove, but the pace of story and the naturalness of characters and situation will hold the interest of the average reader.