Literature & Fiction
![John Cho - [object Object] author](https://res.cloudinary.com/readsomnia/image/upload/authors/a_a_john_cho.jpg)
Troublemaker
An instant New York Times bestselller!
An Indiebound bestseller!
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 -- now in paperback!
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.
An Indiebound bestseller!
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 -- now in paperback!
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.
Editorial Reviews
"A heartfelt, insightful book exploring the bond between father and son who deepen their relationship while navigating social justice, police bias, Korean American identity, and the trauma of the L.A. riots.―Jewell Parker Rhodes, bestselling author of Ghost Boys and Paradise on Fire
"An action-packed story about mistakes, redemption, and real-life danger. I couldn't put this book down!"―Alan Gratz, New York Times bestselling author of Ground Zero and Refugee
"Complex family dynamics are at the heart of this compelling fast-paced debut novel. John Cho's highly personal Korean American perspective of the LA Riots combine harsh realities, racial tension, and ultimately hope."―Lisa Yee, author of Maizy Chen's Last Chance
"A compelling story in a vivid setting that has not been explored enough in books for young readers. Jordan is a genuine, flawed character so real you can't help rooting for him. Deep appreciation to authors John Cho and Sarah Suk for writing this much-needed book."―Linda Sue Park, Newbery Medalist and NYTimes bestselling author
"An action-packed adventure that will not only quicken your pulse but make you think deeply about friendship, family, and justice." ―Nicola Yoon, #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Sun Is Also A Star and Instructions for Dancing
"Fast-paced yet thoughtful and profound, TROUBLEMAKER revisits the fires of the past to shine light and wisdom for a better future." ―David Yoon, New York Times bestselling author of Frankly In Love
"At its core, Troublemaker is a deeply moving story of redemption between a 12-year-old Korean American rebellious son and his strict storeowner father, set against the prescient backdrop of a riveting and suspenseful journey into the heart of 1992 Los Angeles' Koreatown on the first night of what would become one of our country's most iconic movements of civil unrest."―Paula Yoo, award-winning auth...
"An action-packed story about mistakes, redemption, and real-life danger. I couldn't put this book down!"―Alan Gratz, New York Times bestselling author of Ground Zero and Refugee
"Complex family dynamics are at the heart of this compelling fast-paced debut novel. John Cho's highly personal Korean American perspective of the LA Riots combine harsh realities, racial tension, and ultimately hope."―Lisa Yee, author of Maizy Chen's Last Chance
"A compelling story in a vivid setting that has not been explored enough in books for young readers. Jordan is a genuine, flawed character so real you can't help rooting for him. Deep appreciation to authors John Cho and Sarah Suk for writing this much-needed book."―Linda Sue Park, Newbery Medalist and NYTimes bestselling author
"An action-packed adventure that will not only quicken your pulse but make you think deeply about friendship, family, and justice." ―Nicola Yoon, #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Sun Is Also A Star and Instructions for Dancing
"Fast-paced yet thoughtful and profound, TROUBLEMAKER revisits the fires of the past to shine light and wisdom for a better future." ―David Yoon, New York Times bestselling author of Frankly In Love
"At its core, Troublemaker is a deeply moving story of redemption between a 12-year-old Korean American rebellious son and his strict storeowner father, set against the prescient backdrop of a riveting and suspenseful journey into the heart of 1992 Los Angeles' Koreatown on the first night of what would become one of our country's most iconic movements of civil unrest."―Paula Yoo, award-winning auth...
Readers Top Reviews
Cloud Careful S
As a father who grew up during the turbulent times discussed in the book, it was both nostalgic and heartbreaking to relive the days from one step back. Aside from being an interesting pager-turner, it was a great tool to introduce my 5th-grade son to the historical events and social currents of the times in relation to what we see in the present day. I can't remember the last time I read a book that my son and I equally enjoyed reading. Kudos to John Cho for such a culturally valuable experience that is meaningful on multiple levels.
ThomnlaCloud Ca
Having lived in Los Angeles for many years that included the riots covered in Troublemaker, it was interesting to experience this piece of L.A. history through the fictional eyes of a pre-teen youngster. In my view, the author accurately establishes the background to the storyline. I’m neither Korean nor a resident of the the neighborhoods directly impacted by the riots, yet I do recall how abandoned the Korean community felt during the days of this upheaval. The one reservation I have about the storyline - one influenced by my background as former professor of child development - is that I felt 12 year old Jordan would have been better suited to be a teenager rather than a middle schooler.
frankly fiftyJohn
This book was an easy read and faced paced. I enjoyed it as it gave a different perspective of the riots in LA after the Rodney King beatings. Definately an eye opener.
McCoyfrankly fift
I highly recommend adults and children to read this book to help in the understanding of racism from an Asian point.
