Holes by Louis Sacher

Stanley's family has been cursed for generations, and now he is at juvenile detention camp for some- thing he didn't do. He and the other boys are forced to spend all day digging huge holes in the ground as a 'character building' activity, but Stanley soon he realizes that's not why they are doing it. The warden is looking for something valuable, but what could it be?

"A dazzling blend of social commentary, tall tale and magic realism." (Publishers Weekly, Starred Review)
"There is no question, kids will love Holes." (SLJ, Starred Review)
"[A] rugged, engrossing adventure." (Kirkus Reviews)

Awards Won
Newbery Medal Winner 1999
American Library Association Notable Children's Books
American Library Association Best Books for Young Adults
American Library Association Quick Picks for Reluctant Young Adults
New York Times Book Review Notable Children's Books of the Year
Horn Book Magazine Fanfare List
Publishers Weekly Best Books of the Year
National Book Awards Winner
Boston Globe - Horn Book Award