Armstrong and Charlie

Charlie isn't looking forward to 6th grade.  If he starts 6th grade, he'll probably finish it, and that means he'll be older than his brother ever got to be. 

Armstrong isn't looking forward to 6th grade either.  His parents have decided he needs to take advantage of opportunity busing.  That means he'll have the opportunity to get up at 5:30 and ride a bus across town to some white school where he doesn't know anyone.

The two boys end up sitting next to each other in class and become almost instant rivals in the classroom and on the playground.  Armstrong is a bit of a rebel.  If he can get away with it, he doesn't see a problem.  Charlie is the rules boy, and Armstrong's never-ending need to get away with something rubs him the wrong way. 

Despite this, Charlie eventually does begin to see things from Armstrong's perspective, and when they are forced to spend time together outside of school, they develop a real friendship that will expand both their wolds. 

I really enjoyed this funny and heartwarming story about integration by Steven B. Frank.  My only issue is the ages seem off.  The language and kissing advice seem more appropriate for 8th grade, but these kids are in 6th.  It could make it a tough sell, but it will be worth it to meet these two great characters.