Barrington author and Providence College professor Peter Johnson has unleashed a new book into the young adult market, titled The Life and Times of Benny Alvarez. Set in Barrington and East Providence, the story follows the titular Benny and his sour worldview. Routinely derided as “negative” by his peers and family, Benny uses wordplay to defend his less-than-cheery outlook. But as external pressures attack Benny from all sides, he learns that gloom and snark might not always be the best means of navigating one’s life.
This is Peter’s second novel for middle school students. His last effort, The Amazing Adventures of John Smith, Jr. AKA Houdini, was included in the “Best of 2012” list compiled by Kirkus Reviews. Peter has run workshops at local schools like LaSalle Academy, Tiverton Middle School and Bishop Feehan High School, where his books were well-received by students. In 2012, he represented Li’l Rhody at the Library of Congress’ National Book Festival in Washington, D.C. with his book Houdini. The Rhode Island State Council on the Arts has blessed him with two awards for creative writing. Life and Times is available from online retailers, or you can pick up a hardcover copy at Barrington Books.
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