On the Hook by Francisco X. Stork

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Synopsis

Hector has always minded his own business, working hard to make his way to a better life someday. He's the chess team champion, helps the family with his job at the grocery, and teaches his little sister to shoot hoops overhand.

Until Joey singles him out. Joey, whose older brother, Chavo, is head of the Discípulos gang, tells Hector that he's going to kill him: maybe not today, or tomorrow, but someday. And Hector, frozen with fear, does nothing. From that day forward, Hector's death is hanging over his head every time he leaves the house. He tries to fade into the shadows -- to drop off Joey's radar -- to become no one.

But when a fight between Chavo and Hector's brother Fili escalates, Hector is left with no choice but to take a stand.

Authentic

First of all, points for authenticity. The story takes place in the the projects, aka "the hood." Being someone who grew up in the projects myself, this book definitely took me back to that place. Stork creates a world that seems to be a kingdom for people like Joey and Chavo but a danger zone and a hell for others like Hector. 

The presence of gang related activity is perfectly conveyed through the description of the setting and circumstances. The book takes place in the projects and the accuracy is proven to me when Stork describes Hector looking out of his window and makes a note that Joey and his brother, Chavo, hang out day in and day out in the same spot, doing nothing. It's a small neighborhood. Which means no one's business is private; all is seen or heard. 

Dialogue, Characters and Plot

I do think the connections between Hector and his family could have been expounded on. We don't really get a glimpse of what relationship he has with his sister and parents like we do with Fili. But even with Fili, the interaction seems limited. Certain events would have gotten more of an emotional reaction if writer had taken us deeper to establish the relational significance. 

I love Joey and Hector's characters. The dynamic between them is all too relatable. Hector is the rose who grew from the concrete. Keeps a low profile in a dangerous area in hopes of surviving and escaping. Joey is the kid stuck in the system. The kid who's molded himself according to his surroundings and uses his bad temper to get what he wants. He's the king of the junkyard. 

All in all, I love the concept of this story. Its a glimmer of hope for those who were dealt a poor hand. A tale of revenge, anger, loss and acceptance.