Miles Derkach is in trouble.
Along with two friends, Miles stole a car and went joyriding. When the dust clears, he is all alone and his friends have left, leaving him to take the blame—and the punishment—while maintaining his silence. Placed on probation and sentenced to community service, Miles begins working for a man who after suffering a stroke and not being able to drive, has kept his beloved hot rod under wraps in the garage. Seeing a chance to learn more about cars and pursue his dream of becoming a mechanic, Miles helps to restore the car. When the hot rod is stolen and Miles is the prime suspect, he realizes that he must confront his friends and stand up for himself.
This short novel is a high-interest, low-reading level book for teen readers who are building reading skills, want a quick read or say they don’t like to read! The epub edition of this title is fully accessible.
"Knowledgeable car buffs will enjoy Matheson's auto-laced language...Recommended."
– Canadian Book Review Annual
"A likeable hero, appealing to more than just the mechanically inclined who will be steered toward this book."
– KLIATT
"This is a good pick for boys who are reluctant readers. From the starting lap through to the finish line, it will rev up their enthusiasm."
– Resource Links
“Fastback Beach does a superb job of illustrating the struggles teenagers go through when there is a conflict between what they believe is right and what their friends are doing. This is the story of an adolescent becoming an adult, making decisions, and dealing with the consequences of his actions. Highly Recommended.”
– CM Magazine
Canadian Children's Book Centre (CCBC) Our Choice | 2004 | Commended
Download the Fastback Beach Audio Sample.
