Reviews

All American Boys by Jason Reynolds

feelingfrazzled's review against another edition

challenging emotional informative inspiring reflective sad tense 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? It's complicated

4.0

bethany6788's review against another edition

challenging emotional inspiring reflective sad tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

Rashad is wrongfully beaten by a cop while simply trying to buy chips, and his classmate Quinn grapples with his loyalty to the officer amid the unfolding crisis. As tensions escalate in their community, both boys face critical decisions about race, justice, and identity.

I picked up this book today after having owned it for years as a result of Banned Books Week. I simply could not put it down til I was finished. The writing is truly captivating. I felt sick to my stomach, outraged, frustrated, sad, hopeful, and I examined my own prejudices while reading. This book is one I will not forget. 

It felt like every time I turned the page I knew what was coming but didn’t want it to. Rashad had my heart squeezing. His family (man I loved Spoony so much) was even kind of divided on what happened to him which was wild. The ending had me tearing up. Quinn’s family and life and how he examined himself was powerful too. That last chapter with the two boys had me in my feelings.

I’ve also read Long Way Down by Jason Reynolds and his voice is one we absolutely need in YA lit. I’ve never read anything by Brendan Kiley but I was drawn to his writing style here too. This book has two distinct, yet cohesive voices that flow together well. I cannot recommend this book enough.

arianna333's review against another edition

challenging dark informative inspiring sad tense slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.5

goyvonreads's review against another edition

informative reflective sad tense fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.5

bountyofstars's review against another edition

emotional informative inspiring reflective tense fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

cerandolph13's review against another edition

challenging emotional tense fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

mereljk's review against another edition

5.0

Wow. Echt heel goed.

anteus7's review against another edition

5.0

I thought this book was excellent. The narrative structure, going back and forth between two boys on (seemingly) opposite sides of the central conflict of the book really sheds light on the problems of assumptions and prejudice that still plague our society.

The language might be a little rough for some people, but it is appropriate in terms of how it is used: who is using it and when.

mizzlroy's review against another edition

4.0

Really enjoyed this book. I love that it is told in two very distinct voices and perspectives. I love that while this deals with a tough topic at the end I am filled with a sense of hope for the future.

nikkimouse_16's review against another edition

5.0

What an absolutely beautiful, FANTASTIC book. I loved how it was told from two perspectives. Genius. Excellent writing and so natural!! It felt just like I was inside both of the boys’ minds. All good and bad thoughts together, so human.

I loved the connection to Rashad’s marching in ROTC to his marching in the protest. “It was all an uncounted step, yet we were all in sync. We were on a mission.”

The ending was absolutely beautiful. Tears came to my eyes. What an fantastic, amazing book.