All American Boys

This is my second Jason Reynold's book and I just love how fluid the dialog is. It feels like a natural conversation that teens would have and it never feels forced or choppy...always seamless!Similar to [b:The Hate You Give 53522062 The Hate You Give Angie Thomas https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1613832668l/53522062.SY75.jpg 49638190], it is a coming of age story about police brutality in a community. I enjoyed The Hate You Give, and what I liked about this book is the switching perspective of two characters, one white and one black. I think this really added to the journey and showcase separate experiences of an event they were both present for. Rashad, our sweet cinnamon-bun, who must process this wrongly done violence towards him by a police officer (later his father, who was previously an officer too) I liked his journey particularly, he had to process the unfair events against him, what it is to become a hashtag, and finding an understanding of what is a hard job and what is racism/brutality. (the two officer duality that comes from his father's perspective). Our other kid Quinn, who ran from the scene, has to confront white supremacy or the white privilege of doing nothing from what he witnessed. He goes on a journey of why speaking out is important...especially to other white folks. Quinn's story was quite the build up because after loosing his father, the officer that beat Rashad turned out to be his father-figure growing up and he feels like he owes him for years of emotional support...but after seeing his ugly side he doubts what he actually knows about him. There is a basketball scene that especially hints to Quinn of his (the officer's) side all along. Despite these kids stories being different, they complimented each other very well. I liked the reflective nature of this book and how each kid ended up being brave in their own respects and coming together.