Posted: May 2, 2025
Author: Frederick Joseph
Publisher: Candlewick

In an instant, Ossie Brown’s entire future is in jeopardy when a torn knee ligament ends his promising basketball career. Now that basketball is no longer a major part of his identity, Ossie—a black teen who doesn’t come from wealth and privilege—must navigate his new place in the social and academic ecosystems of his affluent, predominantly white school. When a black teacher encourages him to join a writing program, Ossie begins to find new purpose and friends. Then a viral “anti-woke” video puts the teacher’s job, the writing program and Ossie’s friends’ safety at risk—and Ossie must find his true voice. This unflinching novel confronts racism, homophobia and more, while embracing family, romance, friendship and the power of words.

From start to finish, in every chapter and word, the book makes its intent clear. However, while the intent is good, from a creative standpoint, the book is stereotyped and generic. It follows a cliché of narratives that many for sure have already heard and read. The characters think and feel the same feelings; there isn’t much character growth or development considering the book’s lengthiness.

The storytelling is linear; there aren’t many pivots and turns. It is pretty predictable. The mood is very gloomy and mellow, angry at times. It tries to be humorous and happy a few times but always goes back to being its real self.

I admire the challenge the author took on, trying to use young-adult characters as protagonists on a very mature and sensitive topic. I think the book is brave and bold, and the writing style is keen and polished. The author’s use of words makes the reader feel raw and unfiltered emotions.

Overall, it is an okay book, not for everyone, though. But if you are passionate about social themes, issues and current events, this one is for you.

– Kevin Velayo