Concrete Rose
by Angie Thomas
In this powerful prequel to the international bestseller The Hate U Give, Angie Thomas takes readers back to Garden Heights seventeen years before the events of the first book. Seventeen-year-old Maverick Carter is a young man who knows the value of family and the weight of loyalty. As the son of a gang legend, Mav is doing what he must to support his mother while his father is in prison. However, his world is turned upside down when he discovers he is a father himself. Suddenly, Maverick must balance the dangers of the street with the delicate needs of a newborn baby, Seven.
Concrete Rose is a searing and poignant exploration of Black boyhood and the difficult transition into manhood. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in stories about breaking cycles, personal growth, and the complexities of urban life. This book is perfect for fans of Jason Reynolds and Nic Stone, offering a raw and honest look at the choices that define us. Parents looking for high-quality literature that tackles heavy themes with empathy and nuance will find this to be a standout addition to any young adult library.
Highlights:
- A deeply moving exploration of teen fatherhood and responsibility.
- The compelling origin story of Maverick Carter from The Hate U Give.
- An authentic and gritty portrayal of 1990s Garden Heights.
- Powerful themes of loyalty, revenge, and the courage to change one's path.