"Barnes has masterfully crafted a story that's grounded in history and has fantastical elements woven into it. Henson is an irresistible lead surrounded by a strong supporting cast, and his story sheds light on the reality of racial dynamics. Bold, extraordinary storytelling: not to be missed." -- Kirkus Reviews , starred review "Barnes weaves together stories of spirituality, injustice, unrealistic expectations, and police brutality into a powerful tale." -- Publishers Weekly , starred review "You've never read a book like this. Derrick Barnes takes all forms of storytelling available to him--allegory, folktales, and classics--to weave a novel that is empowered, empowering, and incredibly human. You won't be the same after reading it." --Erin Entrada Kelly, two-time winner of the Newbery Medal "With humor, honesty and a touch of magic, Derrick Barnes gives a powerfully told tale of self discovery and community, a delightful ode to boyhood, manhood, sonhood, fatherhood and the blues.
" --Sabaa Tahir, National Book Award-winning author of All My Rage "Derrick Barnes has been one of greatest writers in the nation for a while, but this book cements him as one of the most genius storytellers the world has ever witnessed. The skill, mystery, and propelling prose here are absolutely once in a generation." --Kiese Laymon, Carnegie Medal-winning author of Heavy: An American Memoir "A breathtaking story--one that moved me to tears, laughter, and reflection. With vibrant prose, unflinching honesty, and love that sings on every page, Derrick Barnes has given us a gift that is equal parts powerful, necessary, and hopeful. Through the eyes of Henson--a character you will cheer for, cry for, and want to hold tenderly--we explore what it means to grow up Black in America: the joy, the pain, the dreams, and the weight of simply existing. This novel is another powerful offering from a writer whose heart beats fiercely for a better world, and whose voice we desperately need in the ongoing conversation about who we are, where we've been, and where we must go next." --Frederick Joseph, New York Times bestselling author of This Thing of Ours.