tishreads's review against another edition
3.0
3.5 - The ending left me hanging. I enjoyed the message, the strong male friendships, and the strong family role models. I felt like the writing switched between being too casual and being too preachy at times. Overall a good read.
internationalkris's review against another edition
4.0
This short middle grade book had so much to say about growing up as a black youth during the middle school years when prejudices from other people really begin to show. The message was a bit stronger than the character development and writing but this is a still a great book to read and share.
stitchykitch's review against another edition
3.0
What lane is Stephen’s story about navigating life as a 9year old boy who is half back half white. He is starting to become aware of the racist way people treat him, especially in contrast to his white best friend, Dan. Stephen learns about Black Lives Matter, and struggles to find the best way to stand up to Chad, a boy in his friends group who acts like a d*** to everyone.
I like the message of what lane, which refers to the way that Stephen doesn’t want to have to choose to be white or black, but can celebrate living life his own way. He’s an awesome kid, and I really enjoyed this quick read for upper elementary/ early middle grade readers.
I like the message of what lane, which refers to the way that Stephen doesn’t want to have to choose to be white or black, but can celebrate living life his own way. He’s an awesome kid, and I really enjoyed this quick read for upper elementary/ early middle grade readers.
raechsreads's review against another edition
4.0
Such a great book showing that kids do and will notice the tough things in life. Plus, if given the right tools, these kids may be able to help others learn.
missmeganmann's review against another edition
challenging
emotional
hopeful
sad
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
This was SO GOOD. I really, really enjoyed it. It’s such a sharp observation of what it means to be both mixed and black in America, no matter how old you are. And how racism is insidious and pervasive.
msseviereads's review against another edition
5.0
I was already a big fan of Torrey Maldonado after reading Tight with my seventh graders last winter. Now -- I'm a bigger fan. I loved this book. I think it would make a great read aloud for classrooms and give lots of opportunities for discussion. Stephen and his experiences are important to our world today and I know kids will love this book. Highly recommend!
greenlivingaudioworm's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
emotional
informative
lighthearted
reflective
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
3.0
Content Warnings
Moderate: Bullying, Police brutality, Racial slurs, and Racism
swim559's review against another edition
emotional
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
4.0