A review by reading_diaries
Punching the Air by Ibi Zoboi, Yusef Salaam

dark emotional hopeful reflective sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

This book was incredibly moving. It made me reflect and question my privilege as a white person. I feel so much empathy and sorrow for young black people who experience this awful cycle of unjust violence. 

The way this story is told through poetry and art is amazing. The audiobook is amazing to listen to and really paints a vivid image of Amal’s struggles in the detention centre. The way this story is told in verse is incredibly beautiful and again, listening to the audiobook made it that more impactful to hear. 

Overall, an incredibly impactful and moving story. 
Expand filter menu Content Warnings