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A review by gluvsbooks
Long Way Down: The Graphic Novel by Jason Reynolds
challenging
dark
emotional
informative
mysterious
reflective
sad
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
This was such a heartbreaking and poignant read. It was so powerful and holds great impact.
The author utilises this story in graphic novel form to truly capture the depth of cyclical violence within young people, particularly. It portrays how they are especially vulnerable and can become victims of violence.
The story focuses on Will who has just lost his brother, so now he plans to go by the rules. ‘No. 3: Revenge.” In his attempt to get retribution for his brother’s death he is visited by people from his life, who were also victims of the same violence.
The author leaves the ending a mystery, it has you questioning whether Will actually goes through with his plans. This was a really good touch to the book because it’s a good way to get the readers wondering if the cycle has finally been broken.
The novel really plays on the readers empathy; as the reader I was emotional from the beginning and my heart was breaking for Will—not just because he lost his brother, but also because he thinks he has to carry out revenge; he believes he has to go by the rules; continue the cycle of violence. He was a victim himself.
Finally, I loved the artwork. The watercolours were done so well and was such a beautiful addition to the story.
The author utilises this story in graphic novel form to truly capture the depth of cyclical violence within young people, particularly. It portrays how they are especially vulnerable and can become victims of violence.
The story focuses on Will who has just lost his brother, so now he plans to go by the rules. ‘No. 3: Revenge.” In his attempt to get retribution for his brother’s death he is visited by people from his life, who were also victims of the same violence.
The author leaves the ending a mystery, it has you questioning whether Will actually goes through with his plans. This was a really good touch to the book because it’s a good way to get the readers wondering if the cycle has finally been broken.
The novel really plays on the readers empathy; as the reader I was emotional from the beginning and my heart was breaking for Will—not just because he lost his brother, but also because he thinks he has to carry out revenge; he believes he has to go by the rules; continue the cycle of violence. He was a victim himself.
Finally, I loved the artwork. The watercolours were done so well and was such a beautiful addition to the story.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Gun violence, Violence, Murder, Grief, and Death