From Common Sense Media:

BookLover77 says:

"This book is an interesting and well-written book about police violence for the modern age...the message it contains is important."

From The New York Times:

Columnist Kekla Magoon says:

"Rashad Butler, a 16-year-old junior R.O.T.C. member and young black man, is in the hospital after a white police officer assaulted him in a convenience store. ­Rashad had intended to pay for a bag of chips, but Officer Paul Galluzzo mistook him for a thief. Outraged at the injustice, Rashad’s fellow students rise up in ­protest...this book’s device of employing two narrators — one black, one white, each account written by a different author — is especially apt. The result is an intriguing insider-outsider look at an ­instance of ­police brutality."

From the Alachua County Library District:

Reviewer Owen says:

"This is one of the more powerful novels on racial injustice I’ve read, which comes as no surprise in the presence of Jason Reynolds. The two authors, Reynolds and Kiely, masterfully intertwine two separate but vitally connected stories. This book is the best kind of social commentary, incorporating impactful themes while still telling a compelling and moving story. Ultimately, their message is clear: stand up for what you believe is right, not what you are told is right."

From Kirkus:

"A Pakistani-American girl starting middle school learns how to cope with the changes and challenges she faces at home, at school, and within her close-knit Muslim community.  True to her parents’ endearment for her, geeta (“song” in Urdu), Amina loves to sing. But unlike the contestants on her favorite reality TV show The Voice, Amina shuns the spotlight—she’s a bundle of nerves in front of an audience!  She’s happy living her life as usual, hanging out with her best friend, Korean-American Soojin, playing the piano, and attending Sunday school at the Islamic Center. Except that life isn’t “as usual” anymore. In fact, everything is changing, and changing fast. Soojin wants an “American” name to go with her new citizenship status, and even worse, Soojin starts getting chummy with their elementary school nemesis, a white girl named Emily, leaving a jealous Amina fuming. Then, her visiting uncle voices his disapproval of her piano-playing, saying it’s forbidden in Islam. Finally, when the Islamic Center is vandalized, Amina feels like the whole world as she knows it is crumbling around her. With the help and support of the larger community, the Islamic Center is slowly rebuilt, and Amina comes to terms with her identity and culture, finding strength in her own voice."

From Goodreads.com:

Reviewer CW says:

"The story in Amina's Voice is simple, but that's what made it so utterly charming and lovely. Being twelve can be a rough time, especially when things are changing, and I adored Khan's portrayal of Amina's struggles: small, quiet, but absolutely significant. The explorations of friendships, family, growing up and faith were fantastic and earnest. Even though I'm a decade older than Amina, Khan's flawless writing transported me back to a time where I was twelve, making me empathize and connect deeply with Amina."

From Goodreads.com:

Dany says:

"Best at it follows Rahul Kapoor who's the first gen American , (his parents moved frm India) . Rahul enters seventh grade and wants to find something he's good at and wanna be best at. He tries a lot of things like football (or soccer , I don't get american sports) , being a model .. pretty much all the stuff a 12 y/o can think of.

Best at it might sound like a normal middle grade with the MC figuring out their life , but it encounters a lot of casual racism in all the aspects of Rahul's life.

The feeling of not belonging anywhere is pretty common for every pre teen , but the level of Rahul's not belonging is overwhelming. It's even kinda sad how he just rolls with it as a part of life, because it is.

Rahul's relationship with his family was so authentic. It was so nice how much the family has in common with actual Indian families in India. It was so amazing I could connect with Rahul."

From Children's Literature @ UMN Blog:

Contributing author Brynne Diggins says:

"Published in 2019, The Best At It is a contemporary realistic fiction novel that represents multicultural difference as something that should be celebrated, but shares through Rahul’s story that coming to celebrate difference is a personal journey. Rahul is aware of the differences between himself and the popular kids at his school. He’s nerdy, they’re not. He’s Indian American, they’re not. He’s thinking about Justin a lot, and popular boys don’t have crushes on other boys. Rahul wants to prove that he is just another “normal” kid, so he downplays parts of his identity that his loved ones want to celebrate. Through The Best At It, Pancholy suggests that ignoring who you are doesn’t work; everyone has their own stories to share, and being “the best” version of yourself means embracing your story. The Best At It shows readers that embracing your multicultural identity has positive consequences for yourself and your community. Rahul’s journey teaches us that accepting and celebrating who you are allows you to see your strengths, combat anxiety, and let people love you authentically."

From School Library Journal:

"Explores weighty issues such as sibling rivalry, bullying, religious parents, and gay or questioning teens with a remarkably lighthearted and humorous touch totally appropriate for young audiences."

From The New York Times:

"The funny, awkward, vulnerable Nate is an insightful and entertaining narrator for this adventurous tale about an ugly duckling learning to experience and embrace his inner swan."

From Goodreads.com:

Reviewer Aeicha says:

"In Better Nate Than Ever we follow Nate Foster as he sets out on a big journey to make his dreams come true. Nate dreams of starring in a Broadway show and with the ingenious help of his BFF Libby, he concocts an exciting plan. When his parents go on a weekend trip and leave Nate in the care of his teenage brother, Nate and Libby put their plan in motion and Nate finds himself on an overnight bus trip to NYC and to an audition for E.T.: The Musical. Nate is dazzled by the city, but soon finds that navigating the streets (and people) of the big city isn't as easy as he hoped. And auditioning for a Broadway show is nothing like Nate imagined. But with a little help from a long lost relative and Libby back home, and a lot of courage and heart, Nate has one heck of an adventure and may just see his dreams come home."

From Goodreads.com:

Reviewer Nat says:

"Told through vivid poems, Jacqueline Woodson shares what it was like to grow up as an African American in the 1960s and 1970s. She covers everything from race to religion to the Civil Rights movement. Woodson's life was very complicated and very rich in detail, which I really loved. She's a natural storyteller that made me feel like I was transported back to each event through her writing. And I will remember her story for a long time to come."

From Dogobooks Reviews:

"Raised in South Carolina and New York, Woodson always felt halfway home in each place. In vivid poems, she shares what it was like to grow up as an African American in the 1960s and 1970s, living with the remnants of Jim Crow and her growing awareness of the Civil Rights movement. Touching and powerful, each poem is both accessible and emotionally charged, each line a glimpse into a child’s soul as she searches for her place in the world. Woodson’s eloquent poetry also reflects the joy of finding her voice through writing stories, despite the fact that she struggled with reading as a child. Her love of stories inspired her and stayed with her, creating the first sparks of the gifted writer she was to become."

From Mrs. Rivard:

"Kwame Alexander is one of my favorite authors.  This captivating verse-style novel reads like a rap song and moves fluidly and quickly.  The reader can easily relate to the main characters and the conflicts they deal with as they navigate middle school and family relationships.  This is a must-read for students who love basketball and a great choice for students who have struggled to finish novels in the past."

From Dogobooks Reviews:

Reviewer 1898298556 says:

"The book The Crossover by Kwame Alexander [is a] realistic fiction book and it is also written in poetry. It takes place in school, on the basketball court, and in the hospital. The two main characters are Jordan and Josh who are both good basketball players. They are both trying to fill their dad's shoes and play professional basketball, but along the way there are some obstacles that they have to overcome. This book is about family, love, and sports. I loved this book and it made me want to keep reading to find out what happens next."

From the blog Elena Reads:

"I really love all of the symbolism in this book, the way Kwame Alexander compared basketball to life, with “Basketball Rules” scattered throughout the book. Plus, the author’s way of expressing emotions was beautiful. When Josh was confused and upset at one part of the book, Kwame shifted the whole narrative to second person, instead of flat-out saying, “I’m confused”. This is a really powerful point in the book, because it really shows how confused Josh is, and really has a strong progress to the climax of the story."

From Goodreads.com

Reviewer Elle says:

"There’s honestly not much else to say about this book. Despite being incredibly short, I think Dear Martin speaks for itself about racism and hatred and prejudice. It’s hard to write a book that makes a reader feel, but reading this book just made me feel like I was being punched in the gut, over and over. This was just so emotionally real. While the characters may not get many specific traits, they all feel so much like real people. It takes a lot of talent to make characters feel so true in so few pages."

From Dogobooks Reviews:

"Justyce McAllister is top of his class and set for the Ivy League—but none of that matters to the police officer who just put him in handcuffs. And despite leaving his rough neighborhood behind, he can't escape the scorn of his former peers or the ridicule of his new classmates.

Justyce looks to the teachings of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. for answers. But do they hold up anymore? He starts a journal to Dr. King to find out.

Then comes the day Justyce goes driving with his best friend, Manny, windows rolled down, music turned up—way up, sparking the fury of a white off-duty cop beside them. Words fly. Shots are fired. Justyce and Manny are caught in the crosshairs. In the media fallout, it's Justyce who is under attack."

From West Side Story: The Student News Source of Iowa City West High:

Contributor Edward Keen says:

"Dear Martin,” written by Nic Stone, is a brutally honest, captivating novel that expertly discusses and portrays racism in our society. Although the novel is Stone’s very first, I found myself thoroughly impressed by the way she simultaneously skirted through themes of racism and ethnic profiling while also creating raw, believable characters. Through a blend of classroom discussions, unsparing accounts of racism and well-crafted dialogue, Stone created a novel that not only gives off a clear message but also shows an accurate portrayal of the life of a black teenager in this day and age."

From Goodreads.com

Reviewer Emma Giordano says:

"I was really anticipating reading Does My Head Look Big In This? after being recommended to me as a great book with a Muslim protagonist. I have to say, hearing about Amal's faith was by far my favorite part of the novel! I get so happy watching others speak about things they are passionate about, and Amal's dedication to her religion was absolutely wonderful to read about! It's very rare we find YA protagonists that are open about practicing their faith so this book was unbelievably refreshing. Amal's response to prejudice and discrimination while never backing down from her beliefs was honestly inspiring and I feel so many teens would be impacted by her story!"

From Kirkus Reviews:

"Sixteen-year-old Amal attends an elite prep school in a Melbourne suburb. Poised to begin the third term of 11th grade, Amal admits, “it’s hard enough being an Arab Muslim at a new school,” but “shawling up is just plain psychotic.” Determined to prove she’s strong enough to “wear a badge of my faith,” Amal faces ostracism and ridicule as she dons her hijab with both good humor and trepidation. Supported by her parents, Amal spurns racial epithets like “towel head” and discovers her friends still accept her for who she is, not what she wears. As the term progresses, Amal’s friends face their own issues of self-worth while her faith is tested when she falls in love with a non-Muslim classmate. Wearing the hijab full-time shuts some doors, but opens others for Amal as she emerges a bright, articulate heroine true to herself and her faith."

From YA Books Central:

Reviewer Kinkos says:

"While watching a Friends rerun at the gym, Amal, a teenage Australian-Pleastinian- Muslim girl, realizes that she is ready to wear the hijab. A sign of Muslim faith, a hijab is a strip of cloth wrapped around girls' heads, meant to deter boys' wandering eyes and such. After much thinking, she wears it to her snotty prep school-only to be faced by the excrucating pain of being ignored. Eventually, everyone breaks out of their shells and asks questions; even her crush, Adam. Can she navigate a wild world of prejudice, religion, and love? Or will she crumble under the weight of her hijab?

This book was truly amazingly written and equally as inspiring; a great read for anyone. Amal will make you laugh or cry. It's filled with emotion, and you can feel what the characters feel. Please, read this book!"

From Kirkus Reviews:

"Summer’s bringing its share of changes for 13-year-old Arturo Zamora. Hanging out with friends, working part-time at his family’s restaurant, La Cocina de la Isla, and joining in Sunday family dinners guarantees some fun times at the start of the hot season. But when a sleazy land developer named Wilfrido Pipo arrives in town to build an upscale high-rise right where La Cocina stands, derailing the Zamoras’ plans to expand the family business, Arturo sees that his Miami neighborhood’s in trouble. The money-grubbing intruder woos neighbors and old friends with gifts and a flashy festival. Now, Arturo’s family and friends must fight back to stop Pipo, and these friends include Carmen, a spirited visiting Spaniard who stirs confusing, wonderful feelings within Arturo. “Lo mas importante, mi Arturito, es el amor y la fe,” says Abuela. Concerned about his ailing grandmother, Arturo struggles to help save the restaurant she built, finding inspiration in two unlikely sources: a box full of letters from his long-departed grandfather and the revolutionary poetry of José Martí. Will Arturo discover the love and faith resting inside him? In this inspiring middle-grade debut, Cartaya presents a delightful portrayal of boyhood, skillfully navigating Arturo through the awkwardness, funniness, and messiness that often accompany young love. And in the author’s depiction of the Zamoras—a mostly Cuban-American family full of distinct, lovable characters—the book also testifies to the importance of community."

From School Library Journal:

Reviewer Miriam Lang Budin from the Chappaqua Library in New York says:

"Thirteen-year-old Arturo Zamora is part of a large, Miami-based extended family of aunts, uncles, and cousins led by matriarch Abuela. As a young woman, she emigrated from Cuba with her husband (now deceased) and founded La Cocina de la Isla, the family restaurant, which is not only a famous establishment in the Miami food scene but also a mainstay of the neighborhood. Now in failing health, Abuela has passed the management of the restaurant to Arturo's mother. Arturo is looking forward to his first job in the family business, but he's nonplussed when he finds out that it's washing dishes. He'd rather spend the summer hanging out with his best friends, Bren and Mop; flirting with his first crush, Carmen, and learning the poetry of José Martí to impress her; or reading the letters left for him by his late abuelo. But when scheming real-estate developer Wilfrido Pipo proposes to build a mixed-use high-rise development that would close La Cocina, the entire Zamora family mobilizes to win the neighborhood's support, and Arturo and Carmen are right in the thick of things. Arturo narrates his story with liberal doses of Spanish, untranslated and non-italicized, adding a welcome and authentic texture to Cartaya's debut novel about a young boy on the cusp of adolescence, dealing with friends and girls (and possibly a girlfriend!), his place in his family, and his family's place in his community. "

From Goodreads.com:

Reviewer Danielle says:

"A realistic and captivating middle grade voice and a plot that moves along at a perfect pace. This story of identity explores being Mexican American, being punk, being torn between cultures and parents, transition, and discovering your "own patchwork quilt" you. Plus, Malú's zines woven in are awesome!"

From the organization Social Justice Books:

Reviewer "Latinx in Kid Lit" says:

"There are no shortcuts to surviving your first day at a new school--you can't fix it with duct tape like you would your Chuck Taylors. On Day One, twelve-year-old Malú (María Luisa, if you want to annoy her) inadvertently upsets Posada Middle School's queen bee, violates the school's dress code with her punk rock look, and disappoints her college-professor mom in the process. Her dad, who now lives a thousand miles away, says things will get better as long as she remembers the first rule of punk: be yourself.   The real Malú loves rock music, skateboarding, zines, and Soyrizo (hold the cilantro, please). And when she assembles a group of like-minded misfits at school and starts a band, Malú finally begins to feel at home. She'll do anything to preserve this, which includes standing up to an anti-punk school administration to fight for her right to express herself!  Black and white illustrations and collage art throughout make The First Rule of Punk a perfect pick for fans of books like Roller Girl and online magazines like Rookie."

From Kirkus:

"Through the story of fifth-grader Mia Tang, readers experience the courage, hard work, and dreams of a young Chinese immigrant.

A small room behind the office of the Calivista Motel is home for Mia and her parents. Hired by the rich, coal-hearted Mr. Yao, the family works bone-numbing hours cleaning rooms, fixing problems, and managing the front desk. Troubles check in from every direction: at home, where her mom belittles her love of writing; at school, where bullies and lies surround her; and especially at the motel, where the family battles financial ruin. Yet along the seemingly endless roller coaster of poverty, hope appears in small places. Debut author Yang weaves in autobiographical content while creating a feisty and empowered heroine. The supporting characters are rich in voice and context, with multiple villains and friends that achingly reveal life in America in the 1990s for persons of color and those living in poverty. Heavy themes, including extortion, fraud, and racism, are balanced with the naïve dreams and determination of a 10-year-old. The power of Mia’s newfound skill in English pushes her to fight for her community, which has lovingly become her adopted family in this new land. With bittersweet information on Chinese immigration to America added in an author’s note, this book captures many important themes to explore individually or in the classroom.

Many readers will recognize themselves or their neighbors in these pages. "

From the organization Raising Real Readers:

"Ten year-old Mia and her parents are learning to navigate life in California after arriving from China with only $200. When the family eagerly agrees to run a motel for Mr. Yao, a ruthless landlord, their lives take many unexpected turns. Mia’s life as a 5th grader who moonlights as a hotel front desk assistant manager might be vastly different than your child’s circumstances, but many of her struggles are just the same. Readers will fall in love with the “weeklies” at the hotel, cry at the hardships the family and other friends face, and cheer for their victories."

From Simon and Schuster:

"There are ninety-six reasons why thirteen-year-old Genesis dislikes herself. She knows the exact number because she keeps a list:

-Because her family is always being put out of their house.

-Because her dad has a gambling problem. And maybe a drinking problem too.

-Because Genesis knows this is all her fault.

-Because she wasn’t born looking like Mama.

-Because she is too black.

Genesis is determined to fix her family, and she’s willing to try anything to do so…even if it means harming herself in the process. But when Genesis starts to find a thing or two she actually likes about herself, she discovers that changing her own attitude is the first step in helping change others."

From School Library Journal:

Reviewer Eliot says:

"Genesis Begins Again is a story that feels all too real. This story highlights the fact that racism is still very much alive- even from one person of color to another. From a young age, thirteen-year-old Genesis has been told that she’s “too black” and that everyone wishes she looked like her light-skinned mother. The words “too black” ring in her ears day after day…especially because she hears those words all too often from her father: her alcoholic, gambling, dark-skinned father. In order to please her father (and subconsciously herself) Genesis follows any method to try to lighten her skin- rubbing lemons on her flesh, lathering herself in yoghurt, and even taking a bath in bleach. However, Genesis soon discovers that her skin isn’t the problem and that perhaps if she just understands the real issues, a change in her perspective could be the solution that everyone has been looking for."

From the Pikes Peak Library District:

Reviewer Britt says:

"Castle Cranshaw, aka Ghost, has been running from things his whole life: his violent father, the consequences of altercations at school with a bully, and most of all, the anger that's been building up inside him. So Ghost has a ton of natural talent, which he puts to use when he inadvertently impresses the coach of a local track team. After the coach begs him to join, and Ghost reluctantly agrees, he begins to see that he might be happier if he runs towards something instead of away from everything.

I listened to this audiobook, and it was excellent. I really struggle with middle grade fiction, as I oftentimes have trouble identifying with the characters (I mean, middle school was a loooooooong time ago), but Reynolds took me right back to the thick of it. In a good way. The day-making/ruining things your classmates would say, interactions with adults in positions of authority, and not really being sure about who you are and what you want in life - Reynolds nails it all. Moreover, Ghost is just a straight up likable character, even as he makes poor decision after poor decision. We really get to see him grow over the course of the novel, and even as he does the wrong thing, his heart is usually in the right place. I loved his relationship with his mother, and later, with Coach. There aren't always positive adult relationships in fiction for young people, and so it was nice that Ghost had so many adults that he could turn to."

From Children's Books Daily:

Reviewer Book Boy Jr says:

"I loved this book. I can honestly say that, even as someone who is usually obsessed with all sports, I always thought that running as a sport by itself was a bit pointless. But, after reading this book, I was motivated to go for a run.

And I think that’s what I loved so much about this book – it was so motivating and inspiring.  Of course, it is a sports novel and, so far, I haven’t found one I really disliked, but still this book felt different – weirdly different to the others.  Why? It was …. good.  Not to say that the other sports novels I’ve read were not good, but this one was especially good.  Good enough that I, who doesn’t classify myself as a fast reader, found myself ripping through this novel in about three days. I was really astounded by this and I think that was what I found so good about this book: it always felt free-flowing and at no point boring what-so-ever.  In conclusion, I just really loved this book and believe it’s up there with some of my favourite books ever."

From Goodreads.com:

Reviewer Christy says:

"Really cool way of showing how younger teens can engage in social justice (and how adults are always trying to tell them to be nice and also ignore their voices). Loved Shayla’s parents - encouraging her to use her voice."

From Harper Collins Publishing:

"Twelve-year-old Shayla is allergic to trouble. All she wants to do is to follow the rules. (Oh, and she’d also like to make it through seventh grade with her best friendships intact, learn to run track, and have a cute boy see past her giant forehead.)

But in junior high, it’s like all the rules have changed. Now she’s suddenly questioning who her best friends are and some people at school are saying she’s not black enough. Wait, what?

Shay’s sister, Hana, is involved in Black Lives Matter, but Shay doesn't think that's for her. After experiencing a powerful protest, though, Shay decides some rules are worth breaking. She starts wearing an armband to school in support of the Black Lives movement. Soon everyone is taking sides. And she is given an ultimatum.

Shay is scared to do the wrong thing (and even more scared to do the right thing), but if she doesn't face her fear, she'll be forever tripping over the next hurdle. Now that’s trouble, for real."

From Penguin Random House:

"It all starts when six kids have to meet for a weekly chat–by themselves, with no adults to listen in. There, in the room they soon dub the ARTT Room (short for “A Room to Talk”), they discover it’s safe to talk about what’s bothering them–everything from Esteban’s father’s deportation and Haley’s father’s incarceration to Amari’s fears of racial profiling and Ashton’s adjustment to his changing family fortunes. When the six are together, they can express the feelings and fears they have to hide from the rest of the world. And together, they can grow braver and more ready for the rest of their lives."

From Publisher's Weekly:

"Woodson (Brown Girl Dreaming) celebrates all that is essential and good for humanity—compassion, understanding, security, and freedom—in this touching novel about six children with special needs. Sixth-grader Haley and her best friend, Holly, don’t know much about their four male classmates when they are placed in a self-contained classroom. They soon discover the things that they do and do not have in common when, on Friday afternoons, their teacher takes them to ARTT (a room to talk). Here, without adult supervision, the class can have conversations about anything. Usually the students use the time to unburden themselves of problems ranging from a parent’s deportation to bullying in the schoolyard. Haley is the last to spill her secrets, about her mother’s death and why her father is in prison, and afterwards she is rewarded with a feeling of lightness, “like so many bricks had been lifted off me,” she says. Woodson’s skills as poet and master storyteller shine brightly here as she economically uses language to express emotion and delve into the hearts of her characters. Showing how America’s political and social issues affect children on a daily basis, this novel will leave an indelible mark on readers’ minds."

From Kirkus:

"The lives of several middle school children intersect one summer day, as if by fate.

Kelly’s inventive story centers on gentle and quiet Virgil Salinas, a Filipino-American 11-year-old, and is told from several supremely well-crafted perspectives. Virgil longs to find the courage to talk to Valencia Somerset, who is confident, independent, and deaf. Third-generation Japanese-American Kaori Tanaka, Virgil’s good friend and a budding entrepreneur, offers kids her gift of second sight as a professional psychic. Chet Bullens is the neighborhood bully, and he torments Virgil regularly. Though he is immediately unlikable, Chet’s internal dialogue is nuanced, allowing young readers to understand the forces that shape his worldview and to glimpse the insecurity that underscores his behavior. On his way through the woods to Kaori’s house for a reading, Virgil encounters Chet, whose cruelty endangers Virgil’s beloved guinea pig, Gulliver, and ultimately leaves Virgil stranded and helpless. This ordeal spurs the unexpected collision of all the characters. Virgil, alone except for visits by personifications from the dark folk tales often shared by his Filipina grandmother, contemplates how he will become the hero in his own story should he survive. The short chapters, compelling characters, and age-appropriate suspense will hook young readers immediately. Neither Valencia nor Chet is cued racially."

From Mrs. Rivard:

This book is told from several different perspectives and includes several diverse characters with whom readers can't help but identify.  Though some parts may be slow, the ending is very satisfying and shows how characters grow when forced to interact.  This book encourages looking beyond the surface and realizing that there is often more to someone's story than what they let everyone see.

From The Guardian:

Reviewer Mimi says:

"This book is filled with different emotions, love and much, much more! When I had finished the book, it made me cry even though it ended with a happy ending…

Mark was an ordinary boy until his cancer came back. He just knew that he could not bear this pain anymore, so he decided to climb a mountain; a mountain that would make his heart tremble. A mountain called Mount Rainier.

My favourite character was Mark's dog called Beau because he was always by Mark's side when he was in need of help. When Mark was jumping across the breaking ice on Mount Rainier and there was 60% chance of Beau falling off, Beau still jumped but fell through the horrendously huge gap.

The author has described the book in every way in a lot of detail. They have expressed how the characters feel when they are in different situations."

From Goodreads.com:

Reviewer Nurhayati says:

"'All the world is dark. But together we build light; shared, it keeps us warm.'

It was a beautiful story; about hope, angers. About friendships and promises. About trust and love. About a dying boy and his loyal dog.

I did not expect it to leave such impact to me. I was certainly did not expect myself to clutch the book and cried my heart out at how much feels it giving me."

From Common Sense Media:

An anonymous reviewer says:

"This beautifully and simply told tale explores the ripple effects of a long-held family secret. Though couched in the rhythms of a loving family's life in modern-day Seattle, the sad truths of the past pierce a tween's life, and her rage at being left out of the unspoken past feels appropriate and proportional.

Inside of this loving, if basic, tale lies some serious truth. As Edie's mom says, "For many years, Native children were forcibly removed from their families and communities." The author, who identifies as the "daughter of a Native American Upper Skagit/Nooksack/Blackfeet/Nez Perce adoptee," is making a point: U.S. history is full of tragic stories of coercion and force. I Can Make This Promise lets this truth rise up subtly in the telling, and kids will appreciate the activist spirit that underlies the story."

From Goodreads.com:

Reviewer Enne says:

"I CAN MAKE THIS PROMISE follows a Native girl who uncovers truths about her family and her identity throughout the novel. I really loved the mystery aspect involved in this story! I thought the way it came into play and was eventually resolved was really well-done! I also really loved following the development of the relationship between the main character and her parents. I thought the way the relationship was established and developed allowed for a lot of depth for all characters involved. I do wish that the main character’s friendships had been explored a little more, because I found something lacking in that regard, but overall, I really enjoyed the story—It’s really well-written and easy to get through. I think this is a beautiful story about family and identity and I had a great time reading it!!"

From Kirkus Reviews:

Kirkus reviews says:

"In each of 10 stories, kids reentering the neighborhood from their school day reveal their unique narratives.

BFFs T.J. and Jasmine find their yearslong friendship getting them through parental separation, illness, and foster care. A group of four, all children of cancer survivors, has been brought together by a school counselor. A female skateboarder is the target of a bully—to the relief of his usual victim. A teen with the signs of OCD meets a street musician who changes her outlook. Two ardent gamers are caught up in the confusion of sexual questioning, and there’s an odd couple of friends whose difference in size is no barrier to their bond. A teen with a fear of dogs devises an elaborate plan to get past his neighbor’s new pet, and the class clown tries to find a way to make her overworked mother laugh. Three boys work to make their friend presentable enough to tell a classmate that he likes her. An accident sustained by the school crossing guard causes her son significant anxiety. There are connections among some of the stories: places, people, incidents. However, each story has its own center, and readers learn a great deal about each character in just a few lines. Reynolds’ gift for capturing the voices and humanity of urban teens is on full display. The cast adheres to a black default.

The entire collection brims with humor, pathos, and the heroic struggle to grow up."

From School Library Journal:

Reviewers Elizabeth and Patrick say:

"Ten short stories paint a picture of what happens one particular afternoon after the dismissal bell at Latimer Middle School. Each tale focuses on one student or group of friends. The magic of this book is Reynolds’s ability to weave the same teachers and various students in and out of the ten stories. Students after school swirl and eddy. Ms. Post the crossing guard helps everyone cross the street while her son looks on from his spot by the stop sign; Ms. Wockley, the principal, stands in the hall yelling at students; and Ms. CeeCee sells penny candy from her house. Some backstory in each piece puts the characters’ actions into perspective, with each entry ending with a bit of a surprise. The very last one ends where the first one begins, with a mythical flying school bus. Poetic language is used throughout to help distinguish one character from the next.

VERDICT The perfect book to hand to reluctant middle grade readers, who will relate to the hectic and uncertain lives of these characters."

From Goodreads:

Reviewer Hannah says:

"This book is heartwarming and bittersweet with a sugar-dusting of humor. Medina captures all the awkwardness and unexpected changes of life in the sixth grade, and she pairs that with a convincing portrayal of Merci Suárez's beloved grandfather succumbing to Alzheimer's disease.

Lots of important issued covered here, from family dynamics and new friendships to first crushes and conflict resolution. Just when Merci Suárez Changes Gears begins to feel a bit long-winded, Medina clenches it with a gratifying final page."

From The New York Times:

Reviewer Melissa Walker says:

"Caught between the world of family and peers, the comfort of Las Casitas and the enticing new call of independence, Merci Suárez is a delightful heroine who, despite real challenges, never wavers in her strong sense of self or her fierce love for la familia. Readers will appreciate watching her navigate how to hold on to what matters when it feels like everything is changing."

From Amazon:

Reviewer RF9928 says:

"This book is about a young middle school boy that changes from going to a school in a poor area to going to one in an affluent area. It's about his struggles with being one of the few non white children in the school and how the people in the school do things, whether intentional or not that affect his life.

It's a great story with great messages to bring awareness to things that people may do whether it's intentional or not. I will let my children read this book as well because I think it's great to be aware of things like this and understand different backgrounds and things that people have to deal with in their life. Life is all about knowledge and understanding and books like this are a great asset to society to get a more rounded perspective on the world."

From The Horn Book, Inc.:

Reviewer Patrick Gall says:

"Craft’s engaging graphic novel follows Jordan Banks (an African American seventh grader from Washington Heights) through his first year at the prestigious Riverdale Academy Day School (RAD). Jordan has his sights set on an art-focused high school, but his mother sees RAD as a necessary means to “open up new doors.” Jordan’s father is less comfortable with immersing his son in a predominantly white school and worries about RAD’s lack of diversity. Those concerns are indeed merited, as Jordan confronts both covert and overt racism on a daily basis, from the code-switching necessary to manage the bus ride to and from school, to the two-dimensional tales of black sorrow available at the book fair, to being made to feel insignificant when mistaken for another student of color. Slowly, however, he begins to develop supportive relationships with RAD classmates of different races. Jordan documents his thoughts, feelings, and observations in his sketchbook, shown in interludes throughout the main narrative. Craft’s full-color comics art is dynamic and expressive, generously adorned by emojis, arrows, and imaginative elements such as the small winged cherubs who frequently hover over Jordan’s shoulders; each chapter is introduced by a witty, foreshadowing double-page spread. This school story stands out as a robust, contemporary depiction of a preteen navigating sometimes hostile spaces yet staying true to himself thanks to friends, family, and art."

From the blog "Books. Iced Lattes. Blessed":

Book blogger and teacher Sierra says:

"Jude is self-less, courageous, and utmost brave as she flees her homeland of Syria, to live in the city of Cincinnati in America. In America, she learns a lot about herself and knows that it’s okay to have more than one home. The pace of this book was great. There were many beautiful lives that resonates with the feelings and emotions of Jude throughout the book. Her love and hope for her brother to be safe was something else. I was nervous for him as he was in a quite dangerous part of their homeland. What really got me was when Papa got to see his new daughter through video. My heart swelled in that moment. This was a phenomenal novel in verse by Jasmine Warga. I am eager to grow this genre in my classroom!"

From NPR:

Reviewer Jessica P. Wick says:

"There are so many reasons to read this novel. It's a book about kindness, for one; it sings, for another, as any good verse novel should. Verse novels are coming into vogue, and Jude's voice is heightened by Warga's decision to write her story this way.

It feels true. It feels like middle school and wanting things the way you do in middle school. It feels like being in the middle of so many things and not quite knowing how to navigate that uncertainty. But our protaganist is level-headed and charismatic, clear-eyed — and did I mention charismatic?...I wanted nothing more than to be her friend and listen to whatever she had to say about life. She deserves to shine in the spotlight, and so does Other Words for Home."

From Kirkus:

A staff reviewer says:

"Ali is used to being different: Since moving to Indiana, she’s been the only Asian in her whole school. Her classmates can’t pronounce her name, and she has to drive to another town for kung fu lessons—where she’s still the only Asian. Things aren’t much better at home, with parents who won’t address any of their problems or family secrets. Instead, they don’t talk at all. Then Chase Yu arrives, and suddenly Ali has someone who understands her jokes and has her back when she stands up to teachers. The problem of Ali’s family remains. To move forward, Ali has to uncover what their past means for her future. Chao (American Panda, 2018) brings readers a witty protagonist who breaks stereotypes of Chinese Americans by simply being herself. At the same time, she faces problems, including casual racism and balancing commitments to family and self, that she experiences in culturally specific ways. Interspersed throughout are scenes from “The Butterfly Lovers,” a folktale that at first seems a perplexing addition to Ali’s story but becomes relevant in the end."

From Goodreads:

Reviewer Rachel says:

"Piecing Me Together is the story of Jade, a black teenager who commutes every day to private school where she attends on scholarship. Feeling out of place at school and sometimes at home, Jade feels conflicted a lot of the time and like she doesn't fit in. When Jade is nominated to be in the mentorship program Woman to Woman, she begins to learn about herself and those around her.

I really enjoy Renee Watson's books, she is one of my favorite writers in youth fiction. Her writing flows across the page and I feel the reader falls in love with her characters right away. I loved Jade as a heroine and seeing the world through her eyes. She's at a tough point in her life I feel many teens can relate to, and I love how in this book there were many people along the way that helped Jade (even though sometimes she had to set them straight first). Finding your voice was a big theme in this book and Watson delivered a powerful story. Absolutely fantastic."

From The Children's Book Review:

Reviewer Dr. Jen Harrison says:

"Most compelling about Piecing me Together is the simple, engaging narrative voice, reminiscent of Beverley Naidoor’s writing. Capturing the directness of childish thought, but also the complexity of thought of which young adults are only just beginning to be capable, Jade’s voice rings with authenticity. If this story is a plea for greater understanding and empathy, then it is a perfect tool for fostering that engagement in readers, allowing them a glimpse into problems and triumphs which challenge social conventions, and yet remain utterly relatable. A fantastic read, and one which teachers in particular will want to sit up and take stock of."

From Goodreads:

Reviewer Rachel says:

"A Pride and Prejudice remix, Pride is about Zuri a teenage girl who lives in Bushwick with her four sisters and parents. She knows and loves her neighborhood, until the Darcy family renovates and moves into the house across the street. The Darcy's have two teenage boys, Ainsley and Darius, and Zuri HATES Darius from the moment she meets him, and he seems to hate her too....

“We’re not gonna throw away the past as if it meant nothing. See? That’s what happens to whole neighborhoods. We built something, it was messy, but we’re not gonna throw it away.”

I adored this remix. Pride and Prejudice is a story near and dear to me and Zoboi did such a wonderful job with her retelling. I was completely sucked into the story and the neighborhood of Bushwick and all of it's wonderful people. I felt like I was there.

In terms of the original novel, Zoboi was pretty spot on with plot and characters and she did a wonderful job modernizing it. I just wish we had more of a firm resolution at the end, I won't say exactly because spoilers, but it felt like a happy for now instead of a happily ever after. And that's all I shall say."

From Cavalier House Books:

The article author says:

"In a timely update of Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, National Book Award finalist Ibi Zoboi skillfully balances cultural identity, class, and gentrification against the heady magic of first love in her vibrant reimagining of this beloved classic. A smart, funny, gorgeous retelling starring all characters of color."

From School Library Journal:

The article authors say:

"Twelve-year-old Wallace, whom everyone calls Lolly, resides in Harlem with his mother. His older brother’s recent gang-related murder has left Lolly with raw, unresolved emotions. His mom’s partner brings Lolly two garbage bags full of LEGOs from the toy store where she works; the journey unfolds from there. Lolly finds his path via the ever-evolving LEGO constructions. This debut novel lacks profanity, yet Moore doesn’t shy away from critical issues: bullying, gun violence, police brutality, child protective services, and autism. He’s created a believable self-discovery story in which the will to survive is achieved by channeling a talent and by the support of friends and family. Nile Bullock provides excellent narration and the author contributes his insights at the novel’s conclusion."

From The National Book Foundation:

The review author says:

"With masterful characterizations and quiet strength, Cynthia Kadohata goes straight to the heart of twelve-year-old Summer, her troubled brother, and her Japanese-American grandparents during one grueling season of a contemporary Midwest wheat harvest. Here, Kadohata has carefully crafted a vivid and realistic portrayal of one family’s migrant experience. But even more, she’s created a compassionate, gentle, and humorous book, exploring generational and cultural differences, the fragility of life, and the weighty yet cherished ties of family."

From the Randomly Reading blog:

Blog author and book reviewer Alex says:

"The Thing About Luck is a very agreeable novel and homage to the migrant workers that harvest our wheat.  Kadohata's characters are wonderfully strong, and the dynamic between Summer and her grandmother is funny, poignant, snarky and completely realistic.  Summer's obsession with mosquitoes after receiving a malaria carrying bite from one the previous year is just spot on behavior for a somewhat hypocondrical a 12 year old.  But Summer is also a hard worker who understands that her elderly grandparents may not be about to do the kind of hard manual labor that harvesting requires and that life could easily change for the worst for the Miyamoto family.

One of the things I found most interesting in The Thing about Luck is that no one really thinks about their Japanese identity.   Jiichan, Obaachan and Summer all seem to just accept their life in America and Japanese culture, traditions don't seem to factor into it very much.  On the other hand, the Miyamotos are not stereotypical either.

I found this to be a excellent, well written novel.  And now, The Thing about Luck is the 2013 National Book Award winner."

From Kirkus:

The review author says:

"A girl learns to run again in this inspirational story of recovery from a terrible accident and from insensitivity. Sixteen-year-old Jessica lives to run. She’s a track star, but she loses her leg when an uninsured driver hits her school bus. The tale follows Jessica’s initial despair and growing confidence as she struggles to cope with her disability and her father works to pay medical bills. At last the community rallies round her with a fund drive to buy her a prosthetic running leg. Meanwhile, Jessica makes friends with Rosa, a bright girl with cerebral palsy whom she had never noticed before. She decides to help Rosa as her friends have helped her, but Jessica’s decision to push the wheelchair-bound girl through a 10-mile race might be too ambitious. Despite the story’s focus on Jessica’s emotional rollercoaster ride, Pollyanna would feel right at home there. Nevertheless, the pace of Van Draanen’s prose matches Jessica’s at her swiftest. Readers will zoom through the book just as Jessica blazes around the track. A lively and lovely story."

From Compass Book Ratings:

Review author Rachel says:

"The Running Dream is a must-read for both teens and adults. After life deals sixteen-year-old Jessica a major blow, she struggles to shake off self-doubt and fear. Yet with the help of incredible family and friends, Jessica pushes past her limitations and learns to run again.

Wendelin Van Draanen in a wonderful young adult writer. Her novel is a well-constructed, inspiring tale that I couldn’t put down. The Running Dream emphasizes the themes of friendship, perseverance, and gratitude and is rich in symbolism related to life and running. Jessica is an incredible character who will serve as a role model for readers. I was additionally fascinated by Jessica’s prosthetics and the hope this technology brings all amputees."

From Publisher's Weekly:

The review author says:

"In her first novel, Andreu examines immigration from a distinctive angle through the story of Monserrat Thalia, aka M.T., whose family illegally immigrated to New Jersey from Argentina when she was a baby. Now it's her senior year, and the bright future she's imagined for herself is threatened by her abusive, embittered father, who's determined to return to their homeland. Lacking the support of her mother, M.T. grows angry and depressed, keenly aware of the wide gap between her resources and opportunities (she often comes home to find the electricity shut off) and those of her wealthy peers, including her best friend Chelsea and first love Nate. The threat of deportation, a confused sense of ethnic identity, and painfully low self-esteem ead M.T. to thoughts of suicide. The author addresses the logistical, economic, and psychological hurdles faced by many immigrants, including attaining a driver's license, having to turn to under-the-table work, and fighting stereotypes. M.T's immediate, jaundiced, and worldly perspective is eye-opening and wrenching, particularly when it comes to how she weighs her own worth as a human being."

From Goodreads:

Review author Liza says:

"Drawn upon the author's own experiences as a illegal immigrant, this novel will open the readers' eyes to the fear of not belonging and the constant threat of being deported. Shows the non-political, human side of a tough political issue. Other issues addressed are depression, suicidal thoughts, physical abuse. Easy, quick to read, emotionally charged."

From School Library Journal:

Reviewer Cicely says:

"Told from the viewpoints of Chelsea and Jasmine, this thought-provoking novel explores ideas of body-shaming, racial stereotypes, and gender inequality. Chelsea is a poet and Jasmine is a writer and actress. Fed up with their school's lack of acknowledgement of women's rights, they decide to take a stand with their blog, "Write Like A Girl." It catches the attention of many of their fellow classmates and other teens, but causes problems for them with faculty. Will they be able to enlighten their school community or make things worse for themselves? Readers will enjoy the original poems and creative, witty blog entries. The ending will leave teens inspired to make a difference and challenge the status quo. Watson and Hagan do not disappoint in this powerful story of two girls who take a stand against injustice while learning how to navigate a world that seeks to silence them."

From Reading Zone blog:

Review author Lucy says:

"Watch Us Rise is the story of Chelsea and Jasmine, two students at a progressive high school in New York, and their close friends Isaac and Nadine. As part of the progressive ethos of the school, the students must take part in after school clubs; Jasmine is involved in the drama ensemble and Chelsea in the poetry club. When events in the school suggest that it may not be as progressive as it thinks, the two girls decide to form a club of their own, focused on women's rights. The blog that they produce 'Write like a Girl', soon has the whole school buzzing, though not necessarily in a positive way. The authors use the blog extremely effectively in the book, allowing them to seamlessly incorporate poetry, opinion pieces and feminist biographies without taking away from the story. This book will make you want to stand up and cheer and also break down and cry. Jasmine is dealing with the terminal diagnosis of her father, the constant pressure to lose weight from her mother, and the realisation that she may like Isaac as more than a friend, while Chelsea's passion and volatility gets her into trouble and she finds herself in a love triangle. There's a very poignant passage where Chelsea buys T-Shirts for a protest and honestly doesn't think about the fact that Jasmine won't fit into any of them. The emotion and frustration Jasmine feels in this moment is so real and raw, while highlighting the fact that even people like Chelsea, who everyone would see as the pinnacle of feminism, makes mistakes. I liked that both girls weren't perfect, sometimes making poor decisions, because this made them not only more real but also more relatable. "

From School Library Journal:

Reviewer Amanda says:

"Louise is a complicated character. Having recently moved from Texas to Kansas, Muscogee (Creek) Louise describes her family as middle middle class. They have a lot of family in Indian Country, Oklahoma, but in her new town in Kansas, she and her brother, Hughie, are definitely in the minority. Louise splits with her boyfriend, Cam, after his disparaging remarks about Native people, and tests out potential crushes on new boys, only to find that the Choctaw boy she thinks is cute only dates white girls and her seemingly-nice classmate Pete conflates Native people with alcoholics. It’s while working on the school newspaper as a features reporter that Louise meets Joey, an Arab American boy she bonds with over their shared interest in journalism. Things at school become increasingly tense when Hughie and two other students of color are cast in the school play, with some white parents forming a group to protest these roles going to non-white kids (for the first time ever). Hughie and the two other students receive threatening notes telling them to go back to where they came from. The newspaper covers the controversy, and Hughie grows conflicted over taking a role in a play by L. Frank Baum after he learns of Baum’s racism and his calls for genocide of Native people. Louise deals with racist remarks, ignorance, and microaggressions, trying to educate others and do her job as a reporter in the midst of cries of “reverse racism” and political correctness gone too far."

From the blog Amina's Bookshelf:

Reviewer Amina says:

"A beautiful coming of age story, this novel gets four and a half stars. It’s classic YA with its teenage protagonist learning to navigate a new school in a new country, building friendships and falling in love. Yet it’s refreshingly original with a completely distinct voice blending Haitian and American culture, creating a lyrical edge. The subject matter is heart wrenching yet there’s dashes of humour. All together this melting pot makes for a must-read book.

Every character in this novel is well rounded. I believe the author knows each character’s backstory and detailed motivations for their actions. Firstly, Fabiola’s cousins are realistic, flawed and funny in equal measure. I absolutely fell in love with them and their dynamic. Secondly, I enjoyed how the smaller characters brought some additional themes into the novel, such as Matant Jo’s pain/pills/depression and Donna’s abusive boyfriend."

From the School Library Journal:

Reviewer Amanda MacGregor says:

"Korean-American Frank isn’t sure where he’s supposed to fit in. The child of immigrants, he always feels like he’s not Korean enough, but he’s not fully American. He loves his parents, who are complicated people. He fully admits they’re racist (and have essentially let their daughter, whose husband is black, walk out of their lives because of this). His best friend, Q, is black, and while he feels totally at home at Q’s house, he rarely has him over. He knows when he eventually finds a girlfriend, she should probably be Korean-American, just to make everything easier. Falling for white Brit means lots of deception. When he begins fake dating his Korean-American friend Joy, as a cover, we can see what may happen, but we can’t predict all of the twists and turns that will come with both his real relationship and his fake one."

From the Kirkus Reviews:

The reviewer says:

Natasha and Daniel meet, get existential, and fall in love during 12 intense hours in New York City.

Natasha believes in science and facts, things she can quantify. Fact: undocumented immigrants in the U.S., her family is being deported to Jamaica in a matter of hours. Daniel’s a poet who believes in love, something that can’t be explained. Fact: his parents, Korean immigrants, expect him to attend an Ivy League school and become an M.D. When Natasha and Daniel meet, Natasha’s understandably distracted—and doesn’t want to be distracted by Daniel. Daniel feels what in Japanese is called koi no yokan, “the feeling when you meet someone that you’re going to fall in love with them.” The narrative alternates between the pair, their first-person accounts punctuated by musings that include compelling character histories. Daniel—sure they’re meant to be—is determined to get Natasha to fall in love with him (using a scientific list). Meanwhile, Natasha desperately attempts to forestall her family’s deportation and, despite herself, begins to fall for sweet, disarmingly earnest Daniel. This could be a sappy, saccharine story of love conquering all, but Yoon’s lush prose chronicles an authentic romance that’s also a meditation on family, immigration, and fate.

With appeal to cynics and romantics alike, this profound exploration of life and love tempers harsh realities with the beauty of hope in a way that is both deeply moving and satisfying.

From the Kirkus Reviews:

The reviewer says:

Julia is blunt, funny, sneaky, and also fairly miserable. Her sister, Olga, was recently killed and Julia feels more off-kilter than ever. She’s grieving, of course, but also intensely feeling her parents’ disappointment in her and trying to find ways to get a little breathing room, especially in respect to her judgmental and strict mother. All Julia wants to do is graduate and move to New York City to pursue her dream of becoming a writer, but it’s hard to feel like that dream could become a reality since her parents think a good daughter would be happy to continue living at home and attending community college. That’s what Olga did, and especially as far as her mother is concerned, Olga was perfect. Julia, who talks back, is unabashedly a feminist, and isn’t particularly concerned with consequences, knows she is far from her parents’ ideal. She carries that weight while trying to just live her life in spite of her grief and her increasing depression. And while Julia certainly doesn’t think she has her own life figured out, she did think she had Olga’s nailed: boring secretary who attends one class at a time and was her parents’ pride and joy. But while trying to get to know her now dead sister a little better, Julia must face the fact that she didn’t actually know her sister at all–that no one in their family did. Julia assembles clues based on her limited findings and follows them until she is able to put together a more realistic picture of who Olga was. 

From the The Guardian:

Reviewer Lucy says:

I'll Give You the Sun, is a story of art, love and loss, narrated by twins Noah and Jude.

At the beginning of the novel, the twins are extremely close; Noah the shy "revolutionary", who spends all his time drawing, and Jude, confident and talkative, whose free time involves surfing and cliff diving. However, an amalgamation of jealousy and tragedy causes Noah and Jude to lose their bond, and three years later, they hardly speak. During the three years that the story spans, both twins fall in love; Noah with Brian, the charismatic new boy next door, and Jude with Oscar, a fractured young English man, whose own tragic past enables him to completely understand Jude.

This is a tale of friendship and loss, combined with the heady emotions of first love. Nelson's writing is almost cinematic in its imagery, allowing each character to create themselves in your mind. As the book is split into two narratives - Noah aged thirteen and Jude aged sixteen - the reader is given more of a perspective on their story, enabling us to add another dimension to the words. In my opinion, this narrative also shows the extent of the closeness of Noah and Jude's relationship, as without the other, their story couldn't be told. In spite of the many arguments, misunderstandings and confusions that appear uncorrectable, each character has their happy ever after, creating an uplifting and entirely suitable, if slightly cliché, ending.

Nelson tackles many topics which could be difficult to do justice to when writing about; death, grief, art and love - forbidden love, first love, the love between a girl and a boy, the love between two boys, but above all, the love between the twins, Noah and Jude. However, in this book, she has done much more than just justice, in doing so creating a life affirming masterpiece.

From Kirkus Reviews:

The reviewer says:

Sixteen-year-old Starr Carter is a black girl and an expert at navigating the two worlds she exists in: one at Garden Heights, her black neighborhood, and the other at Williamson Prep, her suburban, mostly white high school.

Walking the line between the two becomes immensely harder when Starr is present at the fatal shooting of her childhood best friend, Khalil, by a white police officer. Khalil was unarmed. Khalil’s death becomes national news, where he’s called a thug and possible drug dealer and gangbanger. His death becomes justified in the eyes of many, including one of Starr’s best friends at school. The police’s lackadaisical attitude sparks anger and then protests in the community, turning it into a war zone. Questions remain about what happened in the moments leading to Khalil’s death, and the only witness is Starr, who must now decide what to say or do, if anything. Thomas cuts to the heart of the matter for Starr and for so many like her, laying bare the systemic racism that undergirds her world, and she does so honestly and inescapably, balancing heartbreak and humor. With smooth but powerful prose delivered in Starr’s natural, emphatic voice, finely nuanced characters, and intricate and realistic relationship dynamics, this novel will have readers rooting for Starr and opening their hearts to her friends and family.

This story is necessary. This story is important.