  | Full Text Reviews: Booklist - 10/01/2016 Finders keepers? Or honesty is the best policy? Ruben wishes he had a shiny new bicycle, like his friend Sergio, but money is tight for Ruben’s parents, so the chances of that happening are slim. When Ruben scoops up what he assumes is a dollar bill dropped by a neighbor, he is conflicted about returning it. Later he discovers it is actually a $100 bill—enough to buy a new bike. When he misplaces the bill, Ruben suddenly understands how it feels to lose something valuable, and realizes what is the right thing to do. Despite the money issues, it is apparent in both the text and illustrations that Ruben has a fairly comfortable life with loving, supportive parents. The colorful mixed-media illustrations show a well-appointed school and a friendly urban setting with just the right amount of detail to allow the important interpersonal dynamics to be front and center. While Ruben’s act of honesty doesn’t guarantee he’ll get a bike, his birthday is approaching, so there is hope. - Copyright 2016 Booklist. School Library Journal - 10/01/2016 K-Gr 2—Ruben wants a bike like Sergio's and ones his other friends ride, but his family cannot afford one. Fate seems to help him find a way to pay for a bike when a lady inadvertently drops a $100 bill while checking out at the grocery store. No one notices as Ruben stashes the bill in his backpack. The text is lively. "My hands are shaking. That money is enough for a bike like Sergio's. Then I won't have to run; I'll be riding." Semirealistic cartoon illustrations have readers rooting for Ruben to do the right thing. At first, he is excited, envisioning spending the money on a new bike, but eventually he starts feeling guilty. Ruben's conscience eats at him, especially when he cannot find the $100 bill. He searches everywhere before finally locating it in another pocket. Relieved, Ruben decides he will do the right thing and soon gets his chance to make things right. When doing an errand for his mom at the grocery store, he runs into the same woman who lost the bill. He returns it and goes home to tell his family what happened. The book ends as he basks in his parents' pride. This title hits on the issues of poverty, peer pressure, and self-control. VERDICT Parents of all economic backgrounds can use this selection to start a conversation about right and wrong, but kids might find the ending less than satisfying.—Robin Sofge, Alexandria Library, VA - Copyright 2016 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission. Loading...
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