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All American Boys

All American Boys

Contemporary LiteratureYoung Adult
Pages
336
Published
2015
Language
English

Synopsis

When a Black teenager is brutally beaten by a white police officer, a classmate witnesses the event, sparking a community-wide debate about race and justice. Told from the alternating perspectives of the victim and the witness, this story explores the ripple effects of a single violent act. It delves into how two young men grapple with the aftermath, forcing their school, community, and the entire country to confront deep-seated racial tensions.

Prose complexity
4/10

Vibe

TenseEmotionalThought-Provoking
Multiple POVsComing of Age

Genres

Contemporary Literature Young Adult

Authors

B
Brendan Kiely

Brendan Kiely is the author of the impactful novel All American Boys. He also wrote The Gospel of Winter and Tradition, and his work includes titles translated into Spanish like El invierno más frío. Kiely's books often address significant themes for young adult readers.

J
Jason Reynolds

Jason Reynolds is a New York Times bestselling author who writes for young adults. His book Stamped is a powerful exploration of racism in America. He's a fantastic storyteller who connects with readers of all ages.

Characters

Rashad ButlerProtagonist
Quinn CollinsProtagonist
All characters in All American Boys

Frequently asked questions

  • Is All American Boys based on a true story?

    While not based on one specific event, the authors drew inspiration from numerous real-life incidents of police brutality and racial injustice that have occurred across the United States. They aimed to reflect the broader societal issues and conversations surrounding these events.

  • Does All American Boys have multiple narrators?

    The story is told through the alternating perspectives of two main characters, Rashad Butler and Quinn Collins. Each chapter switches between their viewpoints, offering distinct insights into the unfolding events and their personal struggles.

  • Has All American Boys won any awards?

    The book received the Coretta Scott King Book Award, which recognizes outstanding African American authors and illustrators of books for children and young adults. It also earned the Walter Dean Myers Award for Outstanding Children's Literature.