A review by gabbolovesbooks
Punching the Air by Ibi Zoboi, Yusef Salaam

emotional reflective sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes

4.5

This book is a perfect example of the power that lies in words. Every line has immense meaning & encourages empathy from the reader.  I loved how the poems are written from Amal's perspective because his own internal struggles against the racist & unjust system that sent him to jail are raw and real for so many who's story's have not been shared with the world. Depsite the devastation of Amal's story, "Punching the Air" manages to capture the way in which he finds solace in art and words beautifully. Everyone should read this book!

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