Trigger Warning(s): Racism, police brutality, and bullying.

Rep: Amal is a Black Muslim.

My Review: I'm going to be very frank, I did not expect to enjoy this book as much as I did. The verse writing style was very poignant!

I loved reading about Amal's family and his interactions with them. How his love for art was a huge part of Amal's character. Islam was another identity that was explored beautifully. And most importantly how his experience as a Black boy shaped him growing up.

The commentary on police brutality and how the world views Black boys was very well written and explored. There were many painful scenes (which angered and broke me), just as there were hopeful ones.

Recommend: I recommend this book due to the rep and subject matter.

If you are scared and uncomfortable reading this novel, I strongly urge you to read it! It's time to open our eyes to the injustice's off this world and start to do something about it. And the first thing you can do is educate yourself.

#BlackLivesMatter