“You have a deep appreciation of the arts and music.”
4 stars
Genre: YA contemporary
Pros:
- A real protagonist
- Deep issues
- Exploration of family
Cons:
- Quite dark for 8th graders
I’ve heard so much about The Hate U Give. It lives up to its hype. I love the setting of this novel and how real it is. The struggle that Starr battles within herself and in her community also feels authentic.
I did take off a star for the beginning portion of this book. The party scene and the girl caught between two worlds felt too similar for my taste to Lilliam Rivera’s The Education of Margot Sanchez. For me, it felt like familiar territory for the first few chapters. Also, even though it’s rated 8th grade and above, I would pause to give it to a middle grader. There is some explosive content in this novel.
Anyway, as the book continued, I got swept into the atmosphere of Starr’s family, friends, and enemies. I enjoyed how Thomas added in the spice of music into the text as well. Also, I’m grateful that Thomas didn’t wrap things up in a nice bow but left it realistic.
An eye-opening book that provides a real-life character braving today’s world of societal clashes.
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I very agree with your review, Jennifer. As much as I found the book very important it is dealing with very serious matter that is best for high schoolers. But as a reader and writer, I’ve devoured the novel. My young adult daughter borrowed it and found it very deep and fascinating too.
Thanks for your input, Evelyne. It does bring to light very complex issues, and the voice needs to be heard. Glad that your daughter read it–I could see it as a very interesting book to dialogue about.
I haven’t read this one, but I’ve heard good things about it. I think it’s cover is wonderful. Very eye-catching. The title too.
I think the title’s great. I didn’t realize the actual reference until I saw it in the book.