Citation: Thomas, A. (2017). The hate u give. Balzer + Bray.
Content Warning: Police violence, gun violence, racism, and racialized violence.
Starr Carter is a teen girl torn between two worlds. She lives in Garden Heights, a neighbourhood where there are gangs, drug dealing and violence. The other world is a classy prep school where students have personal drivers, designer clothing and live in huge homes. One night Starr and her childhood best friend Kahlil are in a car after a party when everything changes. They are pulled over by a police officer. Kahlil is unarmed and is fatally shot by the police officer. Starr must now use her voice to rally against police violence. She experiences threats from the head gang member of her community, as well as having to deal with racism within her high school friend group. The book displays Starr’s life as she navigates dealing with loss, speaking up for yourself, racism, gang violence and the strength of family.
Overall, The Hate U Give is a powerful and moving book. It is a must-read book for all young adults. Inspired by the Black Lives Matter movement, like Dear Martin by Nic Stone (2017), the subject matter is raw and gripping. The book includes moments of positivity but also many moments that will make the reader cry.