Dear Justyce by Nic Stone

Dear Justyce by Nic Stone
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Just wow! I have read and loved everything Nic Stone writes, and this book is a must read by all, very ripped from the headlines, and even though fiction, so true in depicting LaQuan's life, his friendship with Justyce, his "bond" with his "brothers" in the Martel Organization, and his dysfunctional family and school life problems.
Just as I loved Dear Martin, so did Quan tear up my heart as I read his letters to Justyce, and followed his time in jail. The depth of all the characters is powerful, honest and kept me rooting for Quan --- I could not stop turning those pages! Adults and teens must read this book! Highly recommended!

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Allegedly by Tiffany D. Jackson

Allegedly by Tiffany D. Jackson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Debut author's Allegedly is deeply disturbing as the reader follows Mary who allegedly killed a 3 month old baby she and her wacko Mom were babysitting. Mary was sympathetic but I ached for her to tell the truth throughout her years in baby jail. Wanting to keep my blinders on, I desperately wanted a happy ending, and boy did that ending take my breath away. I loved Miss Cora and her SAT tutor and wished they could effect some major change. But, with life, there are many hurtles and Mary got many of those hurtles, which happens with so many kids who have dysfunctional families, mental illness, violence and lies. A compelling read.

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All Day: A Year of Love and Survival Teaching Incarcerated Kids at Rikers Island by Liza Jessie Peterson

All Day: A Year of Love and Survival Teaching Incarcerated Kids at Rikers Island by Liza Jessie Peterson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Liza Jessie's memoir is stunning, compelling honest, and real. Her love for these incarcerated youth on Riker's Island is passionate, unflinching, and loud. The youth's lives are heartbreaking but Liza roots for each and every inmate & pushes them to be their best self despite the insurmountable odds. She urges Black & Latino youth need to know more about their true history in America and the world. The reader is plunged into the prison, the inmates, and how things (their lives) work. Liza's artistic side (acting & theatre) really helps her connect (reach/reach out) with kids many want to forget. I read this for June nonfiction twitter chat Thursday 6/29 at 8PM with #yearofya JOIN US with any YA nonfiction titles you want to share.

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