An excellent YA contemporary about the everyday experiences of young black men in the 21st century. I would compare this book to The Hate U Give in terms of themes. It deals with issues of race and black vs. white. Since Justyce is a student at a prodominantly white prep/boarding school, his white friends don't see him as black. In fact, they struggle to see colour at all. There are a variety of relationships portrayed in this novel too.

Justyce writes letters to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. to help him process his experiences. I think it is wonderful to demonstrate how the process of writing and journaling can be a way for teenage boys to work through their feelings.

This book is well-written and to the point. At just over 200 pages, the author doesn't waste time bringing critical issues to light. This is my first book by Nic Stone and I look forward to reading Dear Justyce next.