JOHNNY BOATENG played division basketball in Indiana and at Simon Fraser University. He starred as a ballplayer in video games, movies, and commercials before an injury sidelined his basketball career. He lives in Vancouver, B.C., where he founded The Dream Hoops Basketball Academy and serves as a mentor for disadvantaged youth.

"A great hi-lo interest book, Hustle is part of Lorimer's "Sports Stories" series written to entice students to read. Author Johnny Boateng does a great job of making the book exciting on many levels, and the book is full of adventures . . . The basketball theme is strong and carries the plot well. Boateng obviously knows the game and effectively conveys the action and tension on the court . . . The characters are believable and easy to relate to."
- Mary Harelkin Bishop, CM Magazine

"realistic dialogue and court action to satisfy the most sports-minded readers"
- Quill & Quire

"Part of the publisher's Sports Series, this slim novel's short chapters and more mature content make it perfect for older reluctant readers. Its no-frills story is fast-moving and touches on many teen issues, while promoting a positive message of independent thinking and being a team player."
- Julia Smith, Booklist

"Boateng knows his basketball lingo. Sports fans will appreciate this feel-good story about not giving in to peer pressure. . . As with any of the books in the [Lorimer Sports Stories series, the language is accessible and the story interesting–a plus for struggling readers."
- Angela Thompson, Resource Links

"An excellent read and should be a great addition to any library shelf."


- Damera Blincoe, Librarian, NetGalley