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beehotel's review against another edition
dark
reflective
sad
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
Content Warnings
Graphic: Gun violence, Confinement, Death, and Murder
Moderate: Violence, Cursing, Rape, Sexual violence, Suicidal thoughts, Physical abuse, and Police brutality
anniefwrites's review against another edition
dark
emotional
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
I can see why this was the first winner of the Printz Award. Walter Dean Myers captured Steve's voice so well that it really felt like reading the character's own notebook and screenplay. The unique structure really helped to propel the plot at a quick pace. I know that often trials drag on instead of breeze past (see Know My Name by Chanel Miller), but I think for the audience and the reading experience, a fast pace was a great choice. I especially loved how, despite having an objectively "happy" ending, it shows the nuance in Steve's situation--just being accused of this crime has changed his life for the worse, in his family, his psyche. I love how he turns to an art form to process his complex emotions about the trial and his time in jail; it's a real testament to the impact that creating can have on us, even in our darkest moments. You don't have to know if Steve was guilty or not; this book was ahead of it's time in the way it shows how inhumane prison is, regardless of crimes committed.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Blood, Confinement, Death, Gun violence, Violence, Sexual violence, Murder, Police brutality, Racism, Rape, and Suicidal thoughts
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