The Impossible Fortress

[DEBUT] In 1987, freshman Billy Marvin is flunking out of high school because when he's not hanging out with his fellow misfits, he is creating computer games on his Commodore 64. But his life changes when a friend reveals his latest get-rich-quick scheme, which involves the new Vanna White issue of Playboy and the color copier at his mom's office. In the process, Billy meets Mary Zelinsky, who is as equally passionate about computers as he is. Fortunately, the scheme provides an excuse for Billy to hang out with Mary and even collaborate on a game for an upcoming contest and a chance to win a brand new IBM PC and the princely sum of $4,000. In navigating new feelings and hidden obstacles in his quest, Billy finds his life growing ever more complicated. Readers who came of age in the 1980s will enjoy the many period references (such as the percussive genius of Phil Collins's solo work), but these do not intrude enough to deter younger readers.