Troublemaker

Written by John Cho

A boy's journey through the LA Riots reveals family secrets and racial tensions.

4.0/5 Goodreads · 1,678 ratings

224 pages· 40,525 words· Est. 5.5 hour read

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Bookroo's summary

Twelve-year-old Jordan struggles with family expectations and his own identity during the LA Riots. As chaos erupts after a controversial verdict, Jordan's father heads to their store, prompting Jordan and his friends to embark on a perilous mission. Amidst the turmoil, Jordan confronts the harsh realities of racism and his place within his community. Will he find the courage to face these challenges and redefine his path?

From the publisher

An instant New York Times bestseller! An Indiebound bestseller! An Asian/Pacific American Award for Literature Honor Book! Troublemaker follows the events of the LA Riots through the eyes of 12-year-old Jordan as he navigates school and family. This book will highlight the unique Korean American perspective. 12-year-old Jordan feels like he can’t live up to the example his older sister set, or his parent’s expectations. When he returns home from school one day hoping to hide his suspension, Los Angeles has reached a turning point. In the wake of the acquittal of the police officers filmed beating Rodney King, as well as the shooting of a young black teen, Latasha Harlins by a Korean store owner, the country is at the precipice of confronting its racist past and present. As tensions escalate, Jordan’s father leaves to check on the family store, spurring Jordan and his friends to embark on a dangerous journey to come to his aide, and come to terms with the racism within and affecting their community.