A review by maralyons
Ain't Never Not Been Black by Javon Johnson

5.0

‘Ain’t Never Not Been Black’ is a profound and passionate collection of poetry. Javon Johnson’s poetry is personal and goes through his life experiences and observations as a black man in America, raised in South Central in Los Angeles where life and violence are precarious. His poems are captivating and, at times, gut-wrenching. I can feel his anxiety and fear of police and threat of other people. Despite the heaviness of daily life, he finds joy in small moments. Johnson deftly illustrates the sheer excitement of young love and tender moments bonding with family. Other poems describe tragedies faced by communities and the dark shadow incarceration leaves on so many families. I highly recommend this beautiful and compelling poetry collection.

Thank you Button Poetry and NetGalley for providing this ARC.