Long Way Down by Jason Reynolds
(2017) 306 pages

“Long Way Down” by Jason Reynolds is a haunting and powerful novel in verse that takes readers on a gripping journey through the complexities of gun violence, grief, and the cycle of revenge. Set in a single elevator ride, the narrative unfolds with intense immediacy, drawing readers into the raw emotions and moral dilemmas faced by its protagonist, Will.

The novel opens with the devastating news of Will’s brother Shawn’s murder, a loss that leaves him grappling with anger, confusion, and a burning desire for vengeance. As Will descends to the ground floor of his building to confront his brother’s killer, he is visited by a series of ghosts—victims of gun violence who have a profound impact on his perspective.

Reynolds’ writing is sparse yet evocative, employing a rhythmic and lyrical style that propels the narrative forward with relentless momentum. Each verse is packed with emotional resonance, capturing the urgency and intensity of Will’s inner turmoil. The use of free verse allows for a raw and unfiltered exploration of themes such as trauma, identity, and the search for redemption.

One of the novel’s most striking elements is its exploration of the ripple effects of violence. Through the encounters with the ghosts, readers are confronted with the human toll of gun violence, from innocent bystanders to those directly involved in the cycle of revenge. Reynolds skillfully examines the ways in which pain and loss reverberate through communities, perpetuating a cycle of violence that is both tragic and all too familiar.

“Long Way Down” also challenges readers to question the assumptions and stereotypes that underpin acts of violence. As Will confronts each ghost and grapples with his own choices, he is forced to confront the complexities of morality and justice. The novel eschews easy answers in favor of a nuanced exploration of the factors that contribute to violence, from systemic injustice to personal responsibility.

In addition to its thematic depth, “Long Way Down” is a masterclass in storytelling. Reynolds employs a taut and suspenseful narrative structure that keeps readers on the edge of their seats until the final, gut-wrenching conclusion. The novel’s brevity belies its emotional impact, packing an unforgettable punch in just over 300 pages.

“Long Way Down” is not just a novel about gun violence; it is a searing indictment of a society that too often fails to address its root causes. It is a testament to the power of literature to provoke thought, foster empathy, and spark meaningful conversations about the issues that matter most. In an age where gun violence continues to ravage communities, Reynolds’ novel is a timely and necessary reminder of the human cost of inaction.

Don’t Call Us Dead by Danez Smith
(2017) 96 pages

Even after reading just the summary of this poetry, I felt like it was going to be a great book. The summary made me deeply interested in this book, and so I felt I just had to read it. This book features a strikingly honest collection of poems that talk about the problems that are plaguing not only America, but the world. These problems include race, gender, illness, and violence, specifically gun violence. Since this book is dealing with deep topics including sexuality and HIV, many of the poems were indeed shocking and quite disturbing to read. However one must accept that this is not just a poem but reality, and that this is what people must face everyday. A lot of the poems are also saddening, like the one titled “summer, somewhere”. The author, Danez Smith, highlights the many black boys and men that were killed due to racial discrimination and injustice, as well as homophobia and pure hate. A lot of the poems deal with such things in complex ways, and the reader must actively think about what the poem is trying to convey and the deeper meanings within each line. Overall this collection of poems are brutally honest, and they dive deep into the racism, homophobia, and pure hate that is and has plagued the world.