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lindseythelibrarian's review
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
reflective
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.5
I liked this book--not as much as Kwama Alexander's book "The Crossover" but it was still great.
What I loved:
The story was interesting, the poetry was dynamic and accessible (even for me!), and I liked the themes in this book. There was such fun wordplay and I love how discovering a love for reading was an important theme in the book. The graphics in the novel didn't detract from the poetry itself so I felt like it kept a very natural flow, but they also brought the characters to life in a way that the poetry itself might not for some.
What was ok:
I didn't, however, feel like the graphic aspect of this added a ton of worthwhile stuff, but I think because of it, it might aid in helping younger readers discover a love for reading.
Final thoughts and who this book is for:
Overall, I really like Kwame's poetry and his middle-grade reads. This book is perfect for those reluctant readers who are a lot like our main character Nick and for those who want to have a better understanding and grasp of poetry.
What I loved:
The story was interesting, the poetry was dynamic and accessible (even for me!), and I liked the themes in this book. There was such fun wordplay and I love how discovering a love for reading was an important theme in the book. The graphics in the novel didn't detract from the poetry itself so I felt like it kept a very natural flow, but they also brought the characters to life in a way that the poetry itself might not for some.
What was ok:
I didn't, however, feel like the graphic aspect of this added a ton of worthwhile stuff, but I think because of it, it might aid in helping younger readers discover a love for reading.
Final thoughts and who this book is for:
Overall, I really like Kwame's poetry and his middle-grade reads. This book is perfect for those reluctant readers who are a lot like our main character Nick and for those who want to have a better understanding and grasp of poetry.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Bullying, Racial slurs, and Racism
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