Ratings13
Average rating4.6
Prepare yourself for something unlike anything: A smash-up of art and text for teens that viscerally captures what it is to be Black. In America. Right Now. Written by #1 New York Times bestselling and award-winning author Jason Reynolds.
Jason Reynolds and his best bud, Jason Griffin had a mind-meld. And they decided to tackle it, in one fell swoop, in about ten sentences, and 300 pages of art, this piece, this contemplation-manifesto-fierce-vulnerable-gorgeous-terrifying-WhatIsWrongWithHumans-hope-filled-hopeful-searing-Eye-Poppingly-Illustrated-tender-heartbreaking-how-The-HECK-did-They-Come-UP-with-This project about oxygen. And all of the symbolism attached to that word, especially NOW.
And so for anyone who didn’t really know what it means to not be able to breathe, REALLY breathe, for generations, now you know. And those who already do, you’ll be nodding yep yep, that is exactly how it is.
Reviews with the most likes.
It is hard to put my feelings about this book into words. The words are simple and powerful like Jason Reynolds does so well. The pictures are also powerful. I just felt to so much about this book and I find myself thinking about it often. This is a good book for kids or adults.
in through the noseout through the mouth
I am in awe! The cover and some of the art inside while I flipped through the book caught my eye, but now that I've read it all.. It left deep thoughts, reminders, and inspiration (now I want my own pocket-sized Moleskine!). I didn't know that it was about Covid, but it was an impactful way to put what families went through this time (even today). It affected us all, and this book reminded me to breathe and keep what is close. Now to go search for a copy for myself!
I absolutely adored the art. It's the type of collage-y mixed media stuff that is some of my favorites. Plus Reynolds' poem is both sad and hopeful. Both a memorial and a balm for the last few years.