Reviews

I do not like bullying and it really disturbs me reading about it especially when it is adults on children. And when adults let certain students get away with it because of who their parents are.

librarystax's review against another edition

Go to review page

3.0

I liked it just fine. The truncated sentences were a little tiring after a while and I didn’t feel really very invested in the story. But it was sweet and well done.

homebodynate's review against another edition

Go to review page

The book was fine. I found the prose enjoyable I just wasn't very gripped by the story ya is pretty hit and miss for me ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

jwinchell's review against another edition

Go to review page

4.0

Donte is in 7th grade and is a lot darker than his very light brother Trey. Donte finds himself in trouble a lot at their new private school in MA, so much so that administration calls the police and Donte is taken to the police station in front of the whole school and Uber bully Alan. Alan is the top player on the fencing team, and Donte, seeking revenge and power of his own, decides to learn fencing. Trey joins him as they train with a former fencing Olympian. Previously unsure of himself and always doubting others’ belief in him, the ultimate showdown comes between Donte and Alan. About navigating racism and colorism, this is a high low novel that will appeal to striving readers who want action and real life issues. Fencing terminology is explained well and pictures help explain fencing concepts. The author’s afterword is about the school to prison pipeline.

Here’s a taste:

“Contradictions rattle, hurt my mind. (Be tough. Don’t be tough. Don’t be tough, get bullied. Be black, tough can get you killed). I shake my head. Bullies, prejudice, ignorant people make life hard.”

Not the most beautiful prose but accessible and an important novel for middle grade to teen readers.

aoosterwyk's review against another edition

Go to review page

4.0

A super quick read that keeps the plot moving with quick, short lines. Much like fencing

cindyjwally's review against another edition

Go to review page

5.0

Reading YA novels for my job is just my excuse! I actually like YA novels. This is a great story with themes of loving family, hard work, and always doing the right thing.

blogginboutbooks's review against another edition

Go to review page

4.0

Racism is always an important topic to discuss and it's an especially timely one right now. Rhodes' newest MG book tackles the subject head on, discussing racism and colorism and how damaging both can be to individuals and communities. Donte's feelings of otherness will be especially familiar to kids of color who live in predominantly white communities, but it should also resonate with anyone who's ever felt different from their peers. With its quick action, staccato prose, and compelling plot, it's a story that will engage even reluctant readers. BLACK BROTHER, BLACK BROTHER is a thought-provoking tale as well, which teaches valuable lessons about family, friendship, standing up to bullies, fighting for what's right, learning how to handle anger in healthy ways, and working hard to accomplish a goal. Fencing is a subject I've never seen covered in a children's book—learning about the sport, its history, and how people of color are being actively encouraged to participate in it was fascinating for me. While I do feel that the white people (excepting Donte's dad) in BLACK BROTHER, BLACK BROTHER are a little too stereotypically racist, overall I really enjoyed this book. I found it engrossing, exciting, and definitely discussion-worthy. I'd give it 4 1/2 stars if I could.

More...