Scan barcode
serendipitysbooks's review against another edition
emotional
reflective
medium-paced
4.5
I loved Above Ground so much that I immediately picked up his debut collection, Counting Descent. It’s sort of a coming of age collection, exploring the realities of doing so as a Black man in America. I’m in awe of his ability to say so much with so few words. His rage was often palpable. Several of the poems focus on basketball and served as a good reminder that sport is one arena where Black youth are generally valued. I listened to both of these on audio. They are read by the poet himself which adds to the power of the words but I hope to read them both in print in the future or, better still, to read and listen simultaneously. I highly recommend both volumes, even to readers who don’t normally read poetry. They are accessible yet full of meaty content that will make you think and feel.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Police brutality, Racism, and Violence
jaiari12's review against another edition
challenging
emotional
reflective
medium-paced
4.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Racial slurs, Police brutality, Violence, Racism, and Slavery
skudiklier's review against another edition
challenging
dark
emotional
hopeful
reflective
medium-paced
4.5
I really loved the couple of Smith's poems I'd read before, as well as his nonfiction book; his writing is beautiful. But this fell somewhat short of my expectations, and I'm wondering if his writing has improved significantly in the few years since it was published. I would definitely still recommend it, and his poems are amazing commentaries on race of course. I look forward to reading more of his work.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Police brutality and Racism
Moderate: Violence and Death
Minor: Suicide
More...