Look Both Ways by Jason Reynolds

Challenge #32 ~ “A book whose cover shows more than 2 people.”

lookbothways

★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆

My opinion in three sentences:

I liked what Reynolds was trying to do with this book, and to a degree I think it worked. However, there were several short stories within it that were presented in a very strange manner, and the cohesive tie turned out to be rather lacklustre. Nevertheless, the actual quality of the writing, and the strength of each character is clear from page to page, and it makes a valid attempt at a character-driven novel for middle grade audiences.

(Without spoiling anything) the best bit:

Reynolds covers a great deal of themes in the book, and yet shows great respect, sensitivity and knowledge to each. Furthermore (and arguably more importantly), he makes these all relatable to the audience of the book, giving younger readers accessible and representative discussion of the topics in work for their age. The variety helped keep the book alive and provide momentum in the absence of a real plot, all of which was supported by a distinct and creative range of characters, too.

A warning for the book:

A schoolbus falls from the sky. Only, it doesn’t, not really. Was I the only one disappointed by this big reveal? It’s an aspect mentioned in each story, and I would have been OK if it had been just that. However, Reynolds attempts to resolve this in the final instalment and give an explanation of the phenomenon (one that, in an earlier story, made the newspaper.) I won’t tell what the reveal is, but it’s not one you’ll see coming, not one I can see middle grade audiences really appreciating, and not one I felt fitted the atmosphere of the book.

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