To Die To Live

To Die To Live by Jason Hershey

It's tough being a teenager but for Thelonious Mitchell (Theo) it's extra tough.  Starting a new school in a new area, Theo has no idea what to expect.  It's probably not the hostility and jibes he is met with.  But friendship comes from an unexpected quarter when he is rescued from a fight by Draven, a tough guy with a reputation for trouble.
Draven doesn't have friends either. Trying to support his grandma and mum who has a drug habit means Draven has made bad choices but he has dreams. Dreams to better himself and help others like him better themselves.
It's an unlikely friendship but one both boys come to value.  For Theo, having had a very turbulent year, it means learning to trust someone again, to give and take confidences.  For Draven, it's knowing someone is there for him, someone who likes him and has taken the time to get to know him.
This is a well written, simple but poignant story about two boys who need and find a friend.  The troubles they have experienced in their short lives are terrible but they are determined to make something of themselves.  Theo's voice throughout is determined and strong even when he is beset by grief.  It is a simple story of a boy who has faced adversity and loss finding the strength and motivation to do something with his life and as such is an inspiration to all young readers.
Theo's strength and determination show throughout this short story and prove that where there is a will there is always a way.