Books Like...

Set in 1992 during the Rodney King riots in Los Angeles, "The Black Kids" by Christina Hammonds Reed follows Ashley Bennett, a privileged Black teenager who starts to reassess her situation after the acquittal of the police officers who beat Rodney King. The novel delves into Ashley's personal growth, friendship dynamics, and the impact of racial injustice on her life and relationships, capturing the era with a mix of humor and heartbreak. Through Ashley's eyes, readers experience the struggles of racism, privilege, and self-discovery in a poignant and relevant narrative.

In the book 'How It Went Down' by Kekla Magoon, the story revolves around the shooting of Tariq Johnson, a sixteen-year-old black boy, by a white man named John Franklin. The narrative unfolds through multiple perspectives of witnesses, friends, family members, and community members, each offering their own version of events surrounding the shooting. The book delves into the complexities of race, perceptions, and community reactions in the aftermath of the tragedy, challenging readers to question their own beliefs and biases. The writing style is fast-paced, compelling, and told through a diverse cast of characters, providing a multi-faceted view of the events leading up to and following Tariq's death.

"When You Were Everything" by Ashley Woodfolk is a poignant exploration of the complexities of girl friendship, focusing on the fallout between Cleo and Layla. The narrative seamlessly moves between past and present timelines, delving into the emotions and experiences of the characters as they navigate the aftermath of losing a best friend. Woodfolk's writing captures the raw and realistic feelings of the protagonist, Cleo, as she grapples with the end of her friendship with Layla, highlighting the nuances of miscommunication, boundaries, and personal growth.

The book also intertwines subplots involving new relationships and friendships, adding layers to the main storyline of Cleo and Layla's friendship. Through alternating chapters and three-dimensional characters, Woodfolk skillfully portrays the struggles and complexities of best friendships falling apart, resonating with readers who have experienced similar losses in their own lives.

Rules for Being a Girl is a powerful story centered around Marin, a high school student who faces a challenging situation when her teacher crosses boundaries. Despite facing disbelief and opposition, Marin refuses to stay silent and decides to fight against the unspoken rules for being a girl. The book explores themes of feminism, empowerment, and standing up for oneself against manipulative oppressors, all while showcasing the evolution of Marin's character and her determination to break free from societal expectations.

The writing style of Rules for Being a Girl is praised for its realistic perspective, authentic characters, and the way the story naturally flows from Marin's viewpoint. The book delves into important issues like modern feminism, intersectionality, and the complexities of speaking out against abuse, offering readers a thought-provoking and empowering narrative that encourages self-discovery and challenging societal norms.

Chlorine Sky is a novel in verse by Mahogany L. Browne that explores the life of a young Black girl named Skyy. She struggles with the ups and downs of friendship, particularly her toxic relationship with her best friend Lay Li. Skyy navigates issues like colorism, academic pressure, and her own self-worth, all while finding solace in basketball and her supportive mother. The verses poetically present her journey as she learns to assert herself and define her identity amidst the pressures from peers and family.

The writing style is both beautiful and accessible, filled with powerful emotions and relatable moments. It captures the essence of teenage struggles and the desire for self-acceptance. Browne's unique format allows for deep introspection and connection, with each poem flowing seamlessly into the next. This fast-paced read is perfect for teens seeking a relatable narrative that delves into complicated relationships and coming-of-age themes.

Ain't Burned All the Bright by Jason Reynolds is a graphic novel that captures the emotional turmoil of 2020 through the eyes of a young Black boy. The book is unique with its combination of poetry and bold illustrations, reflecting themes of family, struggle, and hope during the COVID-19 pandemic and the Black Lives Matter movement. Reynolds uses just three long sentences spread across 388 pages to convey a powerful story, making it an impactful and quick read that resonates deeply with its audience.

"On the Come Up" by Angie Thomas follows the story of Bri, a 16-year-old aspiring rapper trying to make a name for herself in the hip hop world while facing the challenges of being a black teenager in a society divided by privilege. The novel explores themes of family struggles, identity obstacles, poverty, injustice, and the power of finding one's voice amidst societal pressures and expectations. Angie Thomas's writing style is praised for its authenticity, complex characters, and engaging storytelling that delves into the realities of contemporary issues faced by young adults.

The novel 'All American Boys' by Jason Reynolds and Brendan Kiely explores the intertwined lives of Rashad, a black teenager, and Quinn, a white teenager, after Rashad becomes the victim of police brutality. Rashad's assault sparks a chain of events that forces Quinn to question his loyalty and confront his internal biases. The authors skillfully present both Rashad and Quinn's perspectives, delving into themes of racial injustice, friendship, and moral dilemmas. Through compelling storytelling, the book navigates the complexities of race relations and societal tensions in a thought-provoking and emotionally charged narrative.

The dual viewpoints of Rashad and Quinn offer a unique insight into the aftermath of police brutality and the ripple effects it has on individuals and communities. As Rashad grapples with the trauma of his assault and Quinn struggles with conflicting loyalties, the novel challenges readers to confront their own biases and perceptions. With a balanced and sensitive approach, 'All American Boys' sheds light on the realities of racial discrimination and the power of empathy and understanding in bridging divides.

Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You by Jason Reynolds is a powerful exploration of the history of racism in America, starting from 1415 Europe to the Obama administration. Through engaging storytelling, Reynolds and co-author Ibram X. Kendi delve into the roots of racism and how it has shaped society, touching upon key figures like MLK Jr., Malcom X, Rosa Parks, and Angela Davis. The book not only educates on historical events but also emphasizes the importance of antiracism as a means to combat ingrained prejudices and attitudes for a more equitable future.

The writing style of Stamped is praised for being accessible and engaging, making it suitable for young adults and readers of all ages. Reynolds and Kendi skillfully weave together stories and examples to showcase how racism has influenced societal constructs and individual beliefs over the span of six hundred years, encouraging readers to reflect on their own thoughts, feelings, and actions regarding race.

'Okay for Now' by Gary D. Schmidt is a heartwarming and emotional story that follows the life of Doug Swieteck as he navigates challenges such as moving to a new town, family problems, and struggles in school. Despite facing adversities like an abusive father, illiteracy, and mistrust from his neighbors, Doug finds solace in caring adults and discovers his passion for drawing Audubon prints. The narrative beautifully weaves together themes of compassion, resilience, and self-discovery, making it a powerful coming-of-age tale that resonates with readers.