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dormilonaluna's review against another edition
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
It’s an excellent middle grade book!
Content Warnings
Moderate: Racism
thenextgenlibrarian's review against another edition
5.0
Can I give this 10 stars? This MG book is a mix between Jason Reynolds’ Track series and Rhodes’ own Ghost Boys. I LOVED the white and Black brother part of the story because I’ve never read about mixed race siblings who don’t look alike due to their opposite skin color. Adding in fencing—a sport that is predominantly white—made this book unique and eye opening. Donte’s growth throughout the story is one all children can learn from. This book is the definition of empathy. I loved every page, every word.
calypsogilstrap's review against another edition
5.0
Love love love!!! Awesome book club and lit circle choice.
vanhooked_on_reading's review against another edition
5.0
I listened to this book on audio, and it’s a quick listen at 4.5 hours, but it’s definitely with every second. I loved seeing the family dynamics that take place in this book, especially when it comes to Donte and Trey. While the parents’ roles are important, Donte and Trey’s relationship was especially powerful as the brothers struggle to support each other in spite of misunderstandings a bit of sibling competition. In addition to that, the scenes with Donte’s coach as he learns fencing at the Boys and Girls Club were incredible, and I loved getting to hear Donte’s thoughts as he grew. This book also takes an interesting look at the school to prison pipeline in a way that is appropriate for its intended middle grades audience. I found myself really disappointed with the headmaster and school, even at the end of this novel. All in all, this book is quick, witty, and powerful, I would recommend it to any reader.
kllm07's review against another edition
3.0
Overall good message of inclusion. Sometimes a bit heavy on the fencing terminology. Read as audiobook.
mrs_bookdragon's review against another edition
5.0
This was amazing! I really liked learning more about fencing and I learned more about Alexander Dumas and how the Three Musketeers was changed to fit the western culture (White). I also loved the growth in Donte. This was a fantastic read.
bibliobethica's review against another edition
4.0
After Ghost Boys, I expected this to be superb, and it was good. It was captivating. I just liked Ghost Boys more. Golden Sower nominee 2021-22.
bookishlifeofbrie's review against another edition
5.0
A short yet powerful read. Infuriating at times, not because of the writing or the characters, but because of how racism literally infiltrates every aspect of life, no matter your social standing, wealth, colour of your parent's skin or brother's skin. So well written, I felt like a fly on the wall observing the lives of the brothers. A good read for younger kids, highly recommend for adults as well!
cjmedinger's review against another edition
5.0
An incredible story of colorism and breaking boundaries