My favorite quoted review from the dust jacket is: "If The Hate You Give makes you uncomfortable, that's because it should." - Christian Science Monitor

As a white reader, this book made me uncomfortable, but not in a bad way.

Starr's courage, even though she doesn't like acknowledging that she's brave, is inspiring. She stands up for what she believes in, despite the consequences that may follow her. Thomas teaches her readers what it means to be brave and to stand up to injustices, while allowing people of other cultures to peek into the live of a black teenager. She teaches her readers what goes on behind closed doors and closed communities. All human beings need to read this book to fully understand what goes on and why we should care.

The writing was flawless. Mechanically and grammatically speaking, it was spot on. The characterization was beautiful. At the end of the book, I felt as though I know these people. There are dozens of characters in this book and I was able to keep track of each and every one of them. Each character has his or her own story and personality, which adds to the authenticity of the book. The setting was well developed and vivid. The houses, the streets, the stores, the suburbs... I was able to picture everything so clearly. The plot stands out and it's easy to break down. It has a clear arc and the ending was well written.

There's not much else to say about this beautiful book, except to read it.

You'll need tissues.