The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas

Pages: 444

Intended Audience: Mature Teens

Genre: Contemporary Issues / Racism

Notes for Parents: Contains coarse language, violence, drinking, sexuality, and some very mature scenes.

The Inside Cover

Sixteen-year-old Starr Carter moves between two worlds: the poor black neighborhood where she lives and the fancy suburban prep school she attends. The uneasy balance between these worlds is shattered when Starr witnesses the fatal shooting of her childhood best friend, Khalil, at the hands of a police officer. Khalil was unarmed.

Soon afterward, Khalil’s death is a national headline. Some are calling him a thug, maybe even a drug dealer and a gangbanger. Starr’s best friend at school suggests he may have had it coming. When it becomes clear the police have little interest in investigating the incident, protesters take to the streets and Starr’s neighborhood becomes a war zone. What everyone wants to know is: What really went down that night? And the only person alive who can answer that is Starr.

But what Starr does—or doesn’t not—say could destroy her community. It could also endanger her life.

What the cover doesn’t tell you:

The novel has been made into a movie set for release October 2018.

What’s good?

It’s a story ripped from the headlines when Star witnesses her unarmed friend being shot and killed by a police officer. Star struggles with what follows, as her family and community react to what has happened. She also faces a different kind of reaction from her friends at her mostly white, out-of-district high school. The story is raw, but kept relevant and never preachy. While there’s plenty of social commentary about racism and injustice, the story focuses on Star’s emotional state and her experiences in the aftermath of the shooting. The plot is exciting, but not overdramatic, and offers a balanced view of a very harsh reality. Themes include family, friendship, community, racism, activism, courage, and choices. Through it all, it also manages moments of joy and humor. The ending was good.

Best Part: Star. The character was well-developed, genuine, and experienced realistic growth throughout the story.

What isn’t good?

It took me a little time to get used to the slang and speaking style of the characters, but eventually it became hardly noticeable.

Worst part: Nothing.

Recommendation ☺☺☺☺☻ (4/5)

Many of us take for granted that the police are there for our protection. We turn to them in time of need and they make us feel safe. This isn’t true for a large number of African-Americans and other minorities who are compelled to be cautious of the police and distrustful of their intentions. This is a disconcerting tale that is far too real. It’s emotional, provocative, but most of all, heartfelt. Definitely recommended.

Thomas, Angie. The Hate U Give. New York: Balzar + Bray, 2017.