A review by co32minus
Take Back the Block by Chrystal D. Giles

5.0

Very good middle grade read. Straight forward writing that is both easy to read and gets you invested in the characters and the world around them. The plot is insightful, relevant, and hopeful, and with the mix of nuanced characters and well paced writing, it was an enjoyable read from start to finish. Never felt bored or lost (which are problems I struggle with when reading), and appreciated the genuine tone of the book. I think it would encourage kids to feel autonomous and heard, while presenting struggles they may face without dipping into the cynicism of many books I was made to read in middle school.