This second novel from the bestselling author of The Hate U Give returns to the world of Garden Heights in a story about an aspiring teen rapper named Brianna.
... [an] exuberant, exquisitely intimate novel ... The hunger in these pages is real ... And Thomas shows mothers such bighearted love in these pages ... For all the struggle in this book, Thomas rarely misses a step as a writer; only in the scenes of Bri’s budding romance does she perhaps seem uncertain over what feels like a narrative experiment ... Thomas continues to hold up that mirror with grace and confidence. We are lucky to have her...
Angie Thomas expertly dissects black culture and life in a way that is both critical and understanding ... The realities of black, working class life are given a similar treatment; subjects such as drug use and gang violence are examined compassionately rather than with finger-wagging or victim blaming. Bri’s relationships with her aunt—a drug dealer and gang member—and her mother—a recovering drug addict—are handled particularly well, leading to some genuinely touching moments as these two relationships evolve throughout the story ... While this conflict is not new to the literary scene, Ms. Thomas’ choice to tell a familiar story from the point of view of young rapper offers a valuable commentary on the ways in which black culture is both revered and demonized ... On the Come Up is a touching celebration of black culture and black girls combined in a powerful story of what it means to know who you are.
The text challenges its readers to think deeply about white privilege, police brutality and the circumstances designed to break the spirits of young people of color ... Bri’s best friends, Sonny and Malik, complicate the scenario with relatable stories of coming out and the 'friend zone' inquiry. Bri navigates these obstacles with tongue-in-cheek narration, as this brilliant burgeoning young writer learns how expensive it can be to follow your dreams. This book beckons young readers and music lovers alike with an homage to the forefathers of hip-hop that also assures the feminine voice is never dismissed from the cypher.
