All Rise for the Honorable Perry T. Cook
By: Leslie Connor
The only home sixth grader Perry Cook has known is the Blue River Co-ed Correctional Facility, where he lives with his incarcerated mother. His official foster parent is the facilities warden who has allowed him to stay for 12 years. But their world is turned upside down when the ambitious district attorney pulls Perry out of the facility and delays his mother’s parole hearing. In a twist of fate, Perry is now living with the DA’s family whose stepdaughter just happens to be Perry’s best friend. Although the story could become depressing it is filled with hope and positive feelings. It highlights not only the good that can come from prison life but also the downside. Through the telling of each memorable character’s story, we come to understand and care about each of them. The book ends on a surprising note but is very uplifting. Girls and boys ages 9-12 will enjoy this heartwarming family story.
Review By: Ann Axon