Some of the most amazing teenage athletes you'll ever meet are waiting to talk to you. In six unforgettable stories, Chris Crutcher captures the real world of teenagers facing tough situations and doing their best-no matter what. Meet Lionel, a great swimmer who lost his parents in a boating accident; Angus Bethune, the fat kid who can dance the pants off anyone; Johnny, whose abusive father makes him do ten push-ups every time he hears a word he doesn't like; and Petey, who "volunteers" to wrestle the toughest girl around. Their stories are sometimes tragic, sometimes funny, and always entertaining. An ALA Best Book for Young Adults and a School Library Journal Best Book of the Year, Athletic Shorts is rooted solidly in Chris Crutcher's experience as a child and family therapist. It tackles some of the grittiest issues facing teenagers today-racism, underage drinking, AIDS-with superb sensitivity and humor.