A review by amandalorianxo
Tyler Johnson Was Here by Jay Coles

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

4.0

I love the cover. We need to see more men/ boys of color in softer settings and this was a great way of showcasing Marvin as the character he was - gentle but not a pushover. This was all too real and heartbreaking, black boys facing death in the hands of police. This was a little too slice of life but regardless an important read. I would have maybe taken out the random sex scene Marvin has with Faith but the diversity in characters and sexualities ( one of Marvin’s best friends is a biracial lesbian) was great to observe. The pain his parents feel was also heart wrenching. 

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