Elizabeth Neal writes fiction for children and young adults.
Marcus and his best friend Taj have never been great at basketball. But during the final game of the season, their coach finally gives them the chance to play. This fast-paced story about friendship, regret, and second chances is part of The Do-Over series from Lerner Publishing Group’s Darby Creek imprint for emerging, striving, and reluctant readers.
“The Game by Elizabeth Neal features two benchwarmers who finally get a chance to enter the game only to find that a single shot might drive them apart. Each title in the series features a teen facing a moral dilemma who goes the wrong way. A reluctant reader series featuring moral decisions and mysterious twists.” -Kirkus Reviews Issue: Dec. 15, 2018
Marissa, Tiago, and Ben have been waiting all year to see their favorite bands perform at the big spring music festival. But their excitement soon turns to flop sweat when the car’s A/C gives out — and then total panic, when their car breaks down by the side of the road. Will they make it to the show before they drive each other crazy?
“On road trips that quickly turn catastrophic, teens must rely on grit and determination to survive life-threatening situations…A trio of friends head to a music festival in Heat Wave, only to get lost in the desert with a flat tire. Relatable relationship drama between siblings, friends, and significant others is woven into the high-stakes action in these titles written at a fourth grade reading level. VERDICT The entertaining plots pack a punch and are an excellent choice for striving readers in middle and high school, particularly adrenaline seekers. -School Library Journal: June 1, 2020
”A music festival road trip quickly turns to disaster as best friends navigate hazards and setbacks. Marissa and her longtime friends Tiago and Ben have been waiting all year to see their favorite musicians perform at the big spring music festival. Getting there, however, begins to feel impossible when the trio encounters a string of difficulties on their desert route—both natural and man-made. After car trouble finally leaves them stranded, the friends must rely on their wits and work with each other to get back on the road—and avoid the dangers of the wilderness. The four books in the high-interest Road Trip series offer different takes on the thrills and catastrophes that teens can encounter during travel. Reluctant readers with wanderlust will enjoy taking a ride with these straightforward novels.” -Kirkus Reviews Issue: Nov. 15, 2019