The 57 Bus

I wouldn't recommend this book for the following reasons:

1) some characters are portrayed as very innocent, more victims of circumstances who had no understanding of consequences of bad behavior such as truancy and fighting

2) the book contains a significant amount of profanity (perhaps necessary since it is a true story)

3) the story is pretty depressing since it tries to tackle a sweeping variety of societal problems (poverty, drugs, gang violence, teen pregnancy, LGBT assaults)

4) there were a few mildly negative references to authorities (police, judges)

5) the actions of Richard are portrayed as a foolish prank or joke - he lit an unsuspecting stranger on fire in public - I call that arson and assault, but maybe that's just me

I did learn a lot about the “non-binary” community, so a couple stars for some helpful writing in those chapters.