A Boy Knight

Fourteen-year-old Frank Mulvy gives his school lunch to a hungry stranger, a small act that introduces the standards he tries to live by. A freshman and football player at Regal High, Frank is also the elected secretary of the boys' club at St. Leonard's Church. Father Boone guides its ninety members through games, shared interests and his own example. When the priest offers a choice between new records and a concert outing, the boys vote to hear John McCormack.

Martin J. Scott's children's novel places Christian conduct within the pressures of friendship and club life. Bill Daly's resentment of Frank complicates a group that values loyalty, while damage at the club leaves Father Boone searching for an explanation. As the inquiry develops, the priest's doubts grow about a boy he trusts. Readers interested in stories of conscience will find a close look at generosity, responsibility and the difficulty of speaking honestly when loyalties pull in different directions.