A review by arrow_thru_my_reading_slump
Concrete Rose by Angie Thomas

emotional funny hopeful inspiring reflective sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? N/A
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

If you loved The Hate U Give, you'll adore this book. Every dynamic between the adults in THUG has the groundwork laid in this prequel and it was so wonderfully done. 

It felt real. Each conversation felt like I could hear it spoken in my head perfectly. You truly root for Mav, even when he makes the wrong decisions. He is a fantastic main character and his journey in this book is truly beautiful. 

I also loved that this story was even given a chance, given the tough topics within. It isn't often that a YA book tackles teen pregnancy/parenthood in a positive light, with so many examples of supportive adults and sage advice from elders. Is there some tough conversations? Of course. But you could feel the love each person felt for Mav as he struggled to find himself. 

I'd love to see this given a film adaptation. My 90s kid heart loved all the music, film and sports references. 
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