Grab your dancing shoes and join Lakas and a colorful cast of street performers as they capture the spirit of Makibaka—of struggle, hope, laughter, and song. This second Lakas book is a rollicking adventure celebrating the joys and heartache of one community, and a child’s power to make a difference.

The last thing Lakas expects one fine sunny day is to meet a group of tap-dancing, drum-beating, karaoke-singing new friends. But these friends face a crisis: the Makibaka Hotel, where they live, is about to be sold. They must pack their belongings and leave their home, unless… Lakas soon leads Tick A. Boom, Firefoot, and the Karaoke King in a spirited protest against their eviction. Before long the streets of the neighborhood are reverberating with the taps, raps, and chants of Makibaka.

Author Anthony D. Robles tells a gutsy tale about one boy’s empathy and activism, and their ability to revitalize a community. Incorporating photos of protest, illustrator Carl Angel’s paintings vibrate with the rhythm of the city. With a “coin toss” ending that will spark discussion among readers, standing up for what’s right has never been so much fun.