Lo, Michael Mass market paperbound - 1986

This is a wonderful story. A seven year old boy from the slums of New York, Michael, sees someone shooting at a two year old girl, Starr, and dives in front of her. He takes the bullet meant for her, risking his life to save hers. Her wealthy father is so grateful he sends Michael to school and college in Florida. Michael is so grateful for the transformation that education fostered in himself that he wants to use his education to help his buddies that were left behind in the slums. Michael runs into all manner of obstacles in embracing ambition of this magnitude, but also finds tremendous support as his incredible goals touch hearts and move souls. He excelled in athletics as well as academics, and as valedictorian exhibited leadership skills from which everyone benefits. His college wanted him to stay on and teach there, but his loyalties were with his humble beginnings. This is a story of triumph, of astounding goodness and strength over radical socio-economic differences and evil, with education as the basis for how it can all happen.