Testimonial from: Gene Mendoza To Whom It May Concern: I am writing this reference for Nicole (Mendoza) Roach. In her studies pursuing a teaching credential, has visited my classroom on various occasions. I have a third grade classroom full of 8 and 9 year old boys and girls. She asked that I write this letter as a reference to a book she shared with my students titled The Gobster. The students very much enjoyed the book, particularly because of its poetic structure. The book created a lot of discussion afterward. Many of the students related to the main character and said they do much of the same activities. Some agreed with how it was harmful to the main character while others believed there was nothing wrong with what Ace was doing. I believe all students took something valuable away from the book. In conclusion, I would highly recommend The Gobster for other classrooms. Nicole has already agreed to return in the new school year to share it with my new upcoming class. I particularly think it is valuable for 3rd through 6th grades.