Written entirely in verse, Newbery Medalist (Crossover) and New York Times Bestselling Author Kwame Alexander and Mary Rand Hess team up to bring us Blade Morrison in the most pivotal time of his life.

When you’re seventeen, graduating from high school, in love with the prettiest girl in your class, and is the son of the most successful rock star, what more could you ask for? Blade soon realizes that he does want more in the life he thought he was living when it all comes crashing down with a family secret that sends him on an excursion of self discovery.

I enjoyed imagining what each song would sound like and the pages felt like a layer peeled off of someone. It’s said that the best music comes from what you go through and overcome and the reader gets a chance to really see Blade come into himself. Following in his father’s footsteps of being a rockstar, we get to witness his heart pour into his lyrics as the plot unfolds.

The music in this novel represents growth and Blade’s journey from boyhood to something more. Kwame and Mary give a life lesson that sometimes the people closest to you are the ones who hurt you the most but help you realize your true essence.

This review was generously provided by Taren Stewart. To find this book and more, check out any of our six locations.