Wow. Damn. This book is a masterpiece in so many ways.

I honestly don’t know where to begin. This is the type of book that will help make the changes Tupac was talking about; the changes so many people talk about; and the changes that we all really need. (Read the book and you’ll especially understand why I mention Tupac here).

Everyone needs to read this book. Especially if you are white. Especially if you think you understand racism in the USA. Especially if you think you’re “not racist.” Especially if you even wonder quietly to yourself, “Why not all lives matter?” Especially if you’re trying to find your voice to speak out against racism. Especially if you are human. This is classified as fiction, but it is by no means fiction. Young African-Americans go through what Starr and her family and community go through every damn day: Systemic racism.

Ok, and it’s well-written. You got a unique literary voice and style, you got a flawless flow, and naturally you can’t put it down due to the realness, suspense, etc. Let’s talk about narration. The best way to understand what a black teen in the states might be going through is to read her literally as if she were speaking to you. Character development is on point, and so many angles of the complexity of racism are touched upon through each character. Brilliant. Inspiring. This is just a book, but this is so many real lives in so many cities, and we can’t let ourselves forget that just because we aren’t in it.