On My Honor is a short novel by Marion Dane Bauer. The story is about a young boy named Joel and his best friend, Tony. Joel and Tony decide to ride their bikes to a nearby state park. When Joel asks his father for permission, his father permits him to go under one condition: that they will go nowhere else except the park. Joel promises his father that he will not go anywhere else. However, on their way to the park, Tony decides to stop by the Vermillion River. Even though the boys had been warned never to go near the river, Joel challenges Tony to a swimming race to a nearby sandbar.  Hoping to prove his bravery, Tony agrees.  Joel finally makes it to the sandbar, but when he turns around, he realizes that Tony has disappeared. Joel is shocked and terrified at the thought of returning home and telling everyone the truth of what happened.

This book is quite short, but it is one of the most compelling and tragic stories that I have read. I was very impressed by how well it was written. It perfectly describes the thought process of a young boy. The way Joel rationalizes and excuses his lies within his mind is particularly realistic. I appreciate the message of this book about the consequences of dishonesty. Joel’s inner battles with guilt and grief are very powerful. This book teaches valuable lessons about the importance of morality and fatherhood.

I highly recommend this book. It won a Newbery Honor award in 1987, but I think it is deserving of the medal. This book would be especially beneficial to young people, because of the lessons it teaches about growing up and dealing with the consequences of our choices. Anyone can appreciate its realism and intensity. This is a powerful book.