A review by tasleemreads
Punching the Air by Ibi Zoboi, Yusef Salaam

emotional inspiring reflective sad fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

Sensational read! 

This book is inspired by real life events that happened to one of the authors, Yusuf Salaam, one of the Exonerated Five. 

This story follows a child called Amal, who was at the wrong place at the wrong time. This story looks into the complexities of being a Black boy in America and whilst this book is fiction, the story is, unfortunately, one that rings true. 

The book is written in verse which makes it lighter to read despite how heavy the story is. A beautifully written book that makes you feel a great mix of emotions, a must read for everyone and an easy 5 stars.