Reviews
Stonewall Book Award--Mike Morgan & Larry Romans Children's & Young Adult Literature Award Winner YALSA Award for Excellence in Nonfiction for Young Adults Finalist A Boston Globe-Horn Book Nonfiction Honor Book Winner A TAYSHAS Top Ten Book A 2019 Texas Topaz Nonfiction Reading List Book Illinois Teen Readers' Choice Award A School Library Journal Best Book of 2017! A Washington Post Best Book of 2017! One of The New York City Public Library Notable 50 Best Books for Teens! The California Book Awards Young Adult Winner! An ILA Notable Book for a Global Society! Oklahoma Sequoyah Book Award Winner! Maryland Association of School Librarians YA Nominee! The Florida Teens Read Hope Speak List Book Choice! The Green Mountain Book Award Winner! A 2020 Grand Canyon Nominee! "A sensitive study of an incident wrapped up in so many modern conundrums." -- T he Financial Times "The text shifts from straightforward reporting to lyrical meditations, never veering into oversentimentality or simple platitudes. Readers are bound to come away with deep empathy for both Sasha and Richard. VERDICT Slater artfully unfolds a complex and layered tale about two teens whose lives intersect with painful consequences. This work will spark discussions about identity, community, and what it means to achieve justice." -- School Library Journal starred review "With a journalist's eye for overlooked details, Slater does a masterful job debunking the myths of the hate-crime monster and the African-American thug, probing the line between adolescent stupidity and irredeemable depravity. Few readers will traverse this exploration of gender identity, adolescent crime, and penal racism without having a few assumptions challenged. An outstanding book that links the diversity of creed and the impact of impulsive actions to themes of tolerance and forgiveness." -- Kirkus starred review " Using details gleaned from interviews, social media, surveillance video, public records, and other sources, Slater skillfully conveys the complexities of both young people's lives and the courage and compassion of their families, friends, and advocates, while exploring the challenges and moral ambiguities of the criminal justice system. This painful story illuminates, cautions, and inspires." -- Publishers Weekly starred review "It is likely that this account will spark conversations, debates, and contemplation, perhaps leading readers to define for themselves what justice means."-- VOYA " [A] multi-layered lesson on the healing power of humanity." -- Shelf Awareness starred review "...a powerful story of class and race (Sasha is white), gender and identity, justice and mercy, love and hate. Slater has crafted a compelling true-crime story with ramifications for our most vulnerable youth." -- The Horn Book, Stonewall Book Award--Mike Morgan & Larry Romans Children's & Young Adult Literature Award Winner YALSA Award for Excellence in Nonfiction for Young Adults Finalist A School Library Journal Best Books of 2017! A Washington Post Best Book of 2017! One of The New York City Public Library Notable 50 Best Books for Teens! The California Book Awards Young Adult Winner! An ILA Notable Book for a Global Society! Oklahoma Sequoyah Book Award Winner! "A sensitive study of an incident wrapped up in so many modern conundrums." -- T he Financial Times "The text shifts from straightforward reporting to lyrical meditations, never veering into oversentimentality or simple platitudes. Readers are bound to come away with deep empathy for both Sasha and Richard. VERDICT Slater artfully unfolds a complex and layered tale about two teens whose lives intersect with painful consequences. This work will spark discussions about identity, community, and what it means to achieve justice." -- School Library Journal starred review "With a journalist's eye for overlooked details, Slater does a masterful job debunking the myths of the hate-crime monster and the African-American thug, probing the line between adolescent stupidity and irredeemable depravity. Few readers will traverse this exploration of gender identity, adolescent crime, and penal racism without having a few assumptions challenged. An outstanding book that links the diversity of creed and the impact of impulsive actions to themes of tolerance and forgiveness." -- Kirkus starred review " Using details gleaned from interviews, social media, surveillance video, public records, and other sources, Slater skillfully conveys the complexities of both young people's lives and the courage and compassion of their families, friends, and advocates, while exploring the challenges and moral ambiguities of the criminal justice system. This painful story illuminates, cautions, and inspires." -- Publishers Weekly starred review "It is likely that this account will spark conversations, debates, and contemplation, perhaps leading readers to define for themselves what justice means."-- VOYA " [A] multi-layered lesson on the healing power of humanity." -- Shelf Awareness starred review "...a powerful story of class and race (Sasha is white), gender and identity, justice and mercy, love and hate. Slater has crafted a compelling true-crime story with ramifications for our most vulnerable youth." -- The Horn Book, A School Library Journal Best Books of 2017! A Washing Post Best Book of 2017! One of The New York City Public Library Notable 50 Best Books for Teens! "The text shifts from straightforward reporting to lyrical meditations, never veering into oversentimentality or simple platitudes. Readers are bound to come away with deep empathy for both Sasha and Richard. VERDICT Slater artfully unfolds a complex and layered tale about two teens whose lives intersect with painful consequences. This work will spark discussions about identity, community, and what it means to achieve justice." -- School Library Journal starred review "With a journalist's eye for overlooked details, Slater does a masterful job debunking the myths of the hate-crime monster and the African-American thug, probing the line between adolescent stupidity and irredeemable depravity. Few readers will traverse this exploration of gender identity, adolescent crime, and penal racism without having a few assumptions challenged. An outstanding book that links the diversity of creed and the impact of impulsive actions to themes of tolerance and forgiveness." -- Kirkus starred review " Using details gleaned from interviews, social media, surveillance video, public records, and other sources, Slater skillfully conveys the complexities of both young people's lives and the courage and compassion of their families, friends, and advocates, while exploring the challenges and moral ambiguities of the criminal justice system. This painful story illuminates, cautions, and inspires." -- Publishers Weekly starred review "It is likely that this account will spark conversations, debates, and contemplation, perhaps leading readers to define for themselves what justice means."-- VOYA " [A] multi-layered lesson on the healing power of humanity." -- Shelf Awareness starred review, A School Library Journal Best Booksof 2017! A Washing Post Best Book of 2017! One of The New York City Public Librariy's Notable 50 Best Books for Teens! "The text shifts from straightforward reporting to lyrical meditations, never veering into oversentimentality or simple platitudes. Readers are bound to come away with deep empathy for both Sasha and Richard. VERDICT Slater artfully unfolds a complex and layered tale about two teens whose lives intersect with painful consequences. This work will spark discussions about identity, community, and what it means to achieve justice." -- School Library Journal starred review "With a journalist's eye for overlooked details, Slater does a masterful job debunking the myths of the hate-crime monster and the African-American thug, probing the line between adolescent stupidity and irredeemable depravity. Few readers will traverse this exploration of gender identity, adolescent crime, and penal racism without having a few assumptions challenged. An outstanding book that links the diversity of creed and the impact of impulsive actions to themes of tolerance and forgiveness." -- Kirkus starred review " Using details gleaned from interviews, social media, surveillance video, public records, and other sources, Slater skillfully conveys the complexities of both young people's lives and the courage and compassion of their families, friends, and advocates, while exploring the challenges and moral ambiguities of the criminal justice system. This painful story illuminates, cautions, and inspires." -- Publishers Weekly starred review "It is likely that this account will spark conversations, debates, and contemplation, perhaps leading readers to define for themselves what justice means."-- VOYA " [A] multi-layered lesson on the healing power of humanity." -- Shelf Awareness starred review, Stonewall Book Award--Mike Morgan & Larry Romans Children's & Young Adult Literature Award Winner YALSA Award for Excellence in Nonfiction for Young Adults Finalist A Boston Globe-Horn Book Nonfiction Honor Book Winner A TAYSHAS Top Ten Book A 2019 Texas Topaz Nonfiction Reading List Book Illinois Teen Readers' Choice Award A School Library Journal Best Book of 2017! A Washington Post Best Book of 2017! One of The New York City Public Library Notable 50 Best Books for Teens! The California Book Awards Young Adult Winner! An ILA Notable Book for a Global Society! Oklahoma Sequoyah Book Award Winner! Maryland Association of School Librarians YA Nominee! The Florida Teens Read Hope Speak List Book Choice! "A sensitive study of an incident wrapped up in so many modern conundrums." -- T he Financial Times "The text shifts from straightforward reporting to lyrical meditations, never veering into oversentimentality or simple platitudes. Readers are bound to come away with deep empathy for both Sasha and Richard. VERDICT Slater artfully unfolds a complex and layered tale about two teens whose lives intersect with painful consequences. This work will spark discussions about identity, community, and what it means to achieve justice." -- School Library Journal starred review "With a journalist's eye for overlooked details, Slater does a masterful job debunking the myths of the hate-crime monster and the African-American thug, probing the line between adolescent stupidity and irredeemable depravity. Few readers will traverse this exploration of gender identity, adolescent crime, and penal racism without having a few assumptions challenged. An outstanding book that links the diversity of creed and the impact of impulsive actions to themes of tolerance and forgiveness." -- Kirkus starred review " Using details gleaned from interviews, social media, surveillance video, public records, and other sources, Slater skillfully conveys the complexities of both young people's lives and the courage and compassion of their families, friends, and advocates, while exploring the challenges and moral ambiguities of the criminal justice system. This painful story illuminates, cautions, and inspires." -- Publishers Weekly starred review "It is likely that this account will spark conversations, debates, and contemplation, perhaps leading readers to define for themselves what justice means."-- VOYA " [A] multi-layered lesson on the healing power of humanity." -- Shelf Awareness starred review "...a powerful story of class and race (Sasha is white), gender and identity, justice and mercy, love and hate. Slater has crafted a compelling true-crime story with ramifications for our most vulnerable youth." -- The Horn Book, Stonewall Book Award--Mike Morgan & Larry Romans Children's & Young Adult Literature Award Winner YALSA Award for Excellence in Nonfiction for Young Adults Finalist A Boston Globe-Horn Book Nonfiction Honor Book Winner A TAYSHAS Top Ten Book #1 School Library Journal : Teen Librarian Tool Box Best LGBTQIA+ Book A 2019 Texas Topaz Nonfiction Reading List Book Illinois Teen Readers' Choice Award A School Library Journal Best Book of 2017! A Washington Post Best Book of 2017! One of The New York City Public Library Notable 50 Best Books for Teens! The California Book Awards Young Adult Winner! An ILA Notable Book for a Global Society! Oklahoma Sequoyah Book Award Winner! Maryland Association of School Librarians YA Nominee! The Florida Teens Read Hope Speak List Book Choice! The Green Mountain Book Award Winner! A 2020 Grand Canyon Nominee! "A sensitive study of an incident wrapped up in so many modern conundrums." -- T he Financial Times "The text shifts from straightforward reporting to lyrical meditations, never veering into oversentimentality or simple platitudes. Readers are bound to come away with deep empathy for both Sasha and Richard. VERDICT Slater artfully unfolds a complex and layered tale about two teens whose lives intersect with painful consequences. This work will spark discussions about identity, community, and what it means to achieve justice." -- School Library Journal starred review "With a journalist's eye for overlooked details, Slater does a masterful job debunking the myths of the hate-crime monster and the African-American thug, probing the line between adolescent stupidity and irredeemable depravity. Few readers will traverse this exploration of gender identity, adolescent crime, and penal racism without having a few assumptions challenged. An outstanding book that links the diversity of creed and the impact of impulsive actions to themes of tolerance and forgiveness." -- Kirkus starred review " Using details gleaned from interviews, social media, surveillance video, public records, and other sources, Slater skillfully conveys the complexities of both young people's lives and the courage and compassion of their families, friends, and advocates, while exploring the challenges and moral ambiguities of the criminal justice system. This painful story illuminates, cautions, and inspires." -- Publishers Weekly starred review "It is likely that this account will spark conversations, debates, and contemplation, perhaps leading readers to define for themselves what justice means."-- VOYA " [A] multi-layered lesson on the healing power of humanity." -- Shelf Awareness starred review "...a powerful story of class and race (Sasha is white), gender and identity, justice and mercy, love and hate. Slater has crafted a compelling true-crime story with ramifications for our most vulnerable youth." -- The Horn Book, Stonewall Book Award--Mike Morgan & Larry Romans Children's & Young Adult Literature Award Winner YALSA Award for Excellence in Nonfiction for Young Adults Finalist A Boston Globe-Horn Book Nonfiction Honor Book Winner A TAYSHAS Top Ten Book A 2019 Texas Topaz Nonfiction Reading List Book Illinois Teen Readers' Choice Award A School Library Journal Best Book of 2017! A Washington Post Best Book of 2017! One of The New York City Public Library Notable 50 Best Books for Teens! The California Book Awards Young Adult Winner! An ILA Notable Book for a Global Society! Oklahoma Sequoyah Book Award Winner! Maryland Association of School Librarians YA Nominee! "A sensitive study of an incident wrapped up in so many modern conundrums." -- T he Financial Times "The text shifts from straightforward reporting to lyrical meditations, never veering into oversentimentality or simple platitudes. Readers are bound to come away with deep empathy for both Sasha and Richard. VERDICT Slater artfully unfolds a complex and layered tale about two teens whose lives intersect with painful consequences. This work will spark discussions about identity, community, and what it means to achieve justice." -- School Library Journal starred review "With a journalist's eye for overlooked details, Slater does a masterful job debunking the myths of the hate-crime monster and the African-American thug, probing the line between adolescent stupidity and irredeemable depravity. Few readers will traverse this exploration of gender identity, adolescent crime, and penal racism without having a few assumptions challenged. An outstanding book that links the diversity of creed and the impact of impulsive actions to themes of tolerance and forgiveness." -- Kirkus starred review " Using details gleaned from interviews, social media, surveillance video, public records, and other sources, Slater skillfully conveys the complexities of both young people's lives and the courage and compassion of their families, friends, and advocates, while exploring the challenges and moral ambiguities of the criminal justice system. This painful story illuminates, cautions, and inspires." -- Publishers Weekly starred review "It is likely that this account will spark conversations, debates, and contemplation, perhaps leading readers to define for themselves what justice means."-- VOYA " [A] multi-layered lesson on the healing power of humanity." -- Shelf Awareness starred review "...a powerful story of class and race (Sasha is white), gender and identity, justice and mercy, love and hate. Slater has crafted a compelling true-crime story with ramifications for our most vulnerable youth." -- The Horn Book, A School Library Journal Best Books of 2017! A Washing Post Best Book of 2017! One of The New York City Public Library Notable 50 Best Books for Teens! "The text shifts from straightforward reporting to lyrical meditations, never veering into oversentimentality or simple platitudes. Readers are bound to come away with deep empathy for both Sasha and Richard. VERDICT Slater artfully unfolds a complex and layered tale about two teens whose lives intersect with painful consequences. This work will spark discussions about identity, community, and what it means to achieve justice." -- School Library Journal starred review "With a journalist's eye for overlooked details, Slater does a masterful job debunking the myths of the hate-crime monster and the African-American thug, probing the line between adolescent stupidity and irredeemable depravity. Few readers will traverse this exploration of gender identity, adolescent crime, and penal racism without having a few assumptions challenged. An outstanding book that links the diversity of creed and the impact of impulsive actions to themes of tolerance and forgiveness." -- Kirkus starred review " Using details gleaned from interviews, social media, surveillance video, public records, and other sources, Slater skillfully conveys the complexities of both young people's lives and the courage and compassion of their families, friends, and advocates, while exploring the challenges and moral ambiguities of the criminal justice system. This painful story illuminates, cautions, and inspires." -- Publishers Weekly starred review "It is likely that this account will spark conversations, debates, and contemplation, perhaps leading readers to define for themselves what justice means."-- VOYA " [A] multi-layered lesson on the healing power of humanity." -- Shelf Awareness starred review "...a powerful story of class and race (Sasha is white), gender and identity, justice and mercy, love and hate. Slater has crafted a compelling true-crime story with ramifications for our most vulnerable youth." -- The Horn Book, "The text shifts from straightforward reporting to lyrical meditations, never veering into oversentimentality or simple platitudes. Readers are bound to come away with deep empathy for both Sasha and Richard. VERDICT Slater artfully unfolds a complex and layered tale about two teens whose lives intersect with painful consequences. This work will spark discussions about identity, community, and what it means to achieve justice." -- School Library Journal starred review "With a journalist's eye for overlooked details, Slater does a masterful job debunking the myths of the hate-crime monster and the African-American thug, probing the line between adolescent stupidity and irredeemable depravity. Few readers will traverse this exploration of gender identity, adolescent crime, and penal racism without having a few assumptions challenged. An outstanding book that links the diversity of creed and the impact of impulsive actions to themes of tolerance and forgiveness." -- Kirkus starred review " Using details gleaned from interviews, social media, surveillance video, public records, and other sources, Slater skillfully conveys the complexities of both young people's lives and the courage and compassion of their families, friends, and advocates, while exploring the challenges and moral ambiguities of the criminal justice system. This painful story illuminates, cautions, and inspires." -- Publishers Weekly starred review "It is likely that this account will spark conversations, debates, and contemplation, perhaps leading readers to define for themselves what justice means."-- VOYA, The text shifts from straightforward reporting to lyrical meditations, never veering into oversentimentality or simple platitudes. Readers are bound to come away with deep empathy for both Sasha and Richard. VERDICT Slater artfully unfolds a complex and layered tale about two teens whose lives intersect with painful consequences. This work will spark discussions about identity, community, and what it means to achieve justice. -- SLJ starred review, Stonewall Book Award--Mike Morgan & Larry Romans Children's & Young Adult Literature Award Winner YALSA Award for Excellence in Nonfiction for Young Adults Finalist A School Library Journal Best Books of 2017! A Washington Post Best Book of 2017! One of The New York City Public Library Notable 50 Best Books for Teens! "The text shifts from straightforward reporting to lyrical meditations, never veering into oversentimentality or simple platitudes. Readers are bound to come away with deep empathy for both Sasha and Richard. VERDICT Slater artfully unfolds a complex and layered tale about two teens whose lives intersect with painful consequences. This work will spark discussions about identity, community, and what it means to achieve justice." -- School Library Journal starred review "With a journalist's eye for overlooked details, Slater does a masterful job debunking the myths of the hate-crime monster and the African-American thug, probing the line between adolescent stupidity and irredeemable depravity. Few readers will traverse this exploration of gender identity, adolescent crime, and penal racism without having a few assumptions challenged. An outstanding book that links the diversity of creed and the impact of impulsive actions to themes of tolerance and forgiveness." -- Kirkus starred review " Using details gleaned from interviews, social media, surveillance video, public records, and other sources, Slater skillfully conveys the complexities of both young people's lives and the courage and compassion of their families, friends, and advocates, while exploring the challenges and moral ambiguities of the criminal justice system. This painful story illuminates, cautions, and inspires." -- Publishers Weekly starred review "It is likely that this account will spark conversations, debates, and contemplation, perhaps leading readers to define for themselves what justice means."-- VOYA " [A] multi-layered lesson on the healing power of humanity." -- Shelf Awareness starred review "...a powerful story of class and race (Sasha is white), gender and identity, justice and mercy, love and hate. Slater has crafted a compelling true-crime story with ramifications for our most vulnerable youth." -- The Horn Book, Stonewall Book Award--Mike Morgan & Larry Romans Children's & Young Adult Literature Award Winner YALSA Award for Excellence in Nonfiction for Young Adults Finalist A Boston Globe-Horn Book Nonfiction Honor Book Winner A TAYSHAS Top Ten Book A 2019 Texas Topaz Nonfiction Reading List Book Illinois Teen Readers' Choice Award A School Library Journal Best Book of 2017! A Washington Post Best Book of 2017! One of The New York City Public Library Notable 50 Best Books for Teens! The California Book Awards Young Adult Winner! An ILA Notable Book for a Global Society! Oklahoma Sequoyah Book Award Winner! Maryland Association of School Librarians YA Nominee! The Florida Teens Read Hope Speak List Book Choice! The Green Mountain Book Award Winner! "A sensitive study of an incident wrapped up in so many modern conundrums." -- T he Financial Times "The text shifts from straightforward reporting to lyrical meditations, never veering into oversentimentality or simple platitudes. Readers are bound to come away with deep empathy for both Sasha and Richard. VERDICT Slater artfully unfolds a complex and layered tale about two teens whose lives intersect with painful consequences. This work will spark discussions about identity, community, and what it means to achieve justice." -- School Library Journal starred review "With a journalist's eye for overlooked details, Slater does a masterful job debunking the myths of the hate-crime monster and the African-American thug, probing the line between adolescent stupidity and irredeemable depravity. Few readers will traverse this exploration of gender identity, adolescent crime, and penal racism without having a few assumptions challenged. An outstanding book that links the diversity of creed and the impact of impulsive actions to themes of tolerance and forgiveness." -- Kirkus starred review " Using details gleaned from interviews, social media, surveillance video, public records, and other sources, Slater skillfully conveys the complexities of both young people's lives and the courage and compassion of their families, friends, and advocates, while exploring the challenges and moral ambiguities of the criminal justice system. This painful story illuminates, cautions, and inspires." -- Publishers Weekly starred review "It is likely that this account will spark conversations, debates, and contemplation, perhaps leading readers to define for themselves what justice means."-- VOYA " [A] multi-layered lesson on the healing power of humanity." -- Shelf Awareness starred review "...a powerful story of class and race (Sasha is white), gender and identity, justice and mercy, love and hate. Slater has crafted a compelling true-crime story with ramifications for our most vulnerable youth." -- The Horn Book, "The text shifts from straightforward reporting to lyrical meditations, never veering into oversentimentality or simple platitudes. Readers are bound to come away with deep empathy for both Sasha and Richard. VERDICT Slater artfully unfolds a complex and layered tale about two teens whose lives intersect with painful consequences. This work will spark discussions about identity, community, and what it means to achieve justice." -- School Library Journal starred review "With a journalist's eye for overlooked details, Slater does a masterful job debunking the myths of the hate-crime monster and the African-American thug, probing the line between adolescent stupidity and irredeemable depravity. Few readers will traverse this exploration of gender identity, adolescent crime, and penal racism without having a few assumptions challenged. An outstanding book that links the diversity of creed and the impact of impulsive actions to themes of tolerance and forgiveness." -- Kirkus starred review " Using details gleaned from interviews, social media, surveillance video, public records, and other sources, Slater skillfully conveys the complexities of both young people's lives and the courage and compassion of their families, friends, and advocates, while exploring the challenges and moral ambiguities of the criminal justice system. This painful story illuminates, cautions, and inspires." -- Publishers Weekly starred review, Stonewall Book Award--Mike Morgan & Larry Romans Children's & Young Adult Literature Award Winner YALSA Award for Excellence in Nonfiction for Young Adults Finalist A School Library Journal Best Books of 2017! A Washington Post Best Book of 2017! One of The New York City Public Library Notable 50 Best Books for Teens! The California Book Awards Young Adult Winner! An ILA Notable Book for a Global Society! Oklahoma Sequoyah Book Award Winner! "The text shifts from straightforward reporting to lyrical meditations, never veering into oversentimentality or simple platitudes. Readers are bound to come away with deep empathy for both Sasha and Richard. VERDICT Slater artfully unfolds a complex and layered tale about two teens whose lives intersect with painful consequences. This work will spark discussions about identity, community, and what it means to achieve justice." -- School Library Journal starred review "With a journalist's eye for overlooked details, Slater does a masterful job debunking the myths of the hate-crime monster and the African-American thug, probing the line between adolescent stupidity and irredeemable depravity. Few readers will traverse this exploration of gender identity, adolescent crime, and penal racism without having a few assumptions challenged. An outstanding book that links the diversity of creed and the impact of impulsive actions to themes of tolerance and forgiveness." -- Kirkus starred review " Using details gleaned from interviews, social media, surveillance video, public records, and other sources, Slater skillfully conveys the complexities of both young people's lives and the courage and compassion of their families, friends, and advocates, while exploring the challenges and moral ambiguities of the criminal justice system. This painful story illuminates, cautions, and inspires." -- Publishers Weekly starred review "It is likely that this account will spark conversations, debates, and contemplation, perhaps leading readers to define for themselves what justice means."-- VOYA " [A] multi-layered lesson on the healing power of humanity." -- Shelf Awareness starred review "...a powerful story of class and race (Sasha is white), gender and identity, justice and mercy, love and hate. Slater has crafted a compelling true-crime story with ramifications for our most vulnerable youth." -- The Horn Book, Stonewall Book Award--Mike Morgan & Larry Romans Children's & Young Adult Literature Award Winner YALSA Award for Excellence in Nonfiction for Young Adults Finalist A Boston Globe-Horn Book Nonfiction Honor Book Winner A TAYSHAS Top Ten Book A 2019 Texas Topaz Nonfiction Reading List Book Illinois Teen Readers' Choice Award A School Library Journal Best Book of 2017! A Washington Post Best Book of 2017! One of The New York City Public Library Notable 50 Best Books for Teens! The California Book Awards Young Adult Winner! An ILA Notable Book for a Global Society! Oklahoma Sequoyah Book Award Winner! "A sensitive study of an incident wrapped up in so many modern conundrums." -- T he Financial Times "The text shifts from straightforward reporting to lyrical meditations, never veering into oversentimentality or simple platitudes. Readers are bound to come away with deep empathy for both Sasha and Richard. VERDICT Slater artfully unfolds a complex and layered tale about two teens whose lives intersect with painful consequences. This work will spark discussions about identity, community, and what it means to achieve justice." -- School Library Journal starred review "With a journalist's eye for overlooked details, Slater does a masterful job debunking the myths of the hate-crime monster and the African-American thug, probing the line between adolescent stupidity and irredeemable depravity. Few readers will traverse this exploration of gender identity, adolescent crime, and penal racism without having a few assumptions challenged. An outstanding book that links the diversity of creed and the impact of impulsive actions to themes of tolerance and forgiveness." -- Kirkus starred review " Using details gleaned from interviews, social media, surveillance video, public records, and other sources, Slater skillfully conveys the complexities of both young people's lives and the courage and compassion of their families, friends, and advocates, while exploring the challenges and moral ambiguities of the criminal justice system. This painful story illuminates, cautions, and inspires." -- Publishers Weekly starred review "It is likely that this account will spark conversations, debates, and contemplation, perhaps leading readers to define for themselves what justice means."-- VOYA " [A] multi-layered lesson on the healing power of humanity." -- Shelf Awareness starred review "...a powerful story of class and race (Sasha is white), gender and identity, justice and mercy, love and hate. Slater has crafted a compelling true-crime story with ramifications for our most vulnerable youth." -- The Horn Book, "The text shifts from straightforward reporting to lyrical meditations, never veering into oversentimentality or simple platitudes. Readers are bound to come away with deep empathy for both Sasha and Richard. VERDICT Slater artfully unfolds a complex and layered tale about two teens whose lives intersect with painful consequences. This work will spark discussions about identity, community, and what it means to achieve justice." -- School Library Journal starred review "With a journalist's eye for overlooked details, Slater does a masterful job debunking the myths of the hate-crime monster and the African-American thug, probing the line between adolescent stupidity and irredeemable depravity. Few readers will traverse this exploration of gender identity, adolescent crime, and penal racism without having a few assumptions challenged. An outstanding book that links the diversity of creed and the impact of impulsive actions to themes of tolerance and forgiveness." -- Kirkus starred review " Using details gleaned from interviews, social media, surveillance video, public records, and other sources, Slater skillfully conveys the complexities of both young people's lives and the courage and compassion of their families, friends, and advocates, while exploring the challenges and moral ambiguities of the criminal justice system. This painful story illuminates, cautions, and inspires." -- Publishers Weekly starred review "It is likely that this account will spark conversations, debates, and contemplation, perhaps leading readers to define for themselves what justice means."-- VOYA " [A] multi-layered lesson on the healing power of humanity." -- Shelf Awareness starred review, Stonewall Book Award--Mike Morgan & Larry Romans Children's & Young Adult Literature Award Winner YALSA Award for Excellence in Nonfiction for Young Adults Finalist A TAYSHAS Top Ten Book A 2019 Texas Topaz Nonfiction Reading List Book A School Library Journal Best Books of 2017! A Washington Post Best Book of 2017! One of The New York City Public Library Notable 50 Best Books for Teens! The California Book Awards Young Adult Winner! An ILA Notable Book for a Global Society! Oklahoma Sequoyah Book Award Winner! "A sensitive study of an incident wrapped up in so many modern conundrums." -- T he Financial Times "The text shifts from straightforward reporting to lyrical meditations, never veering into oversentimentality or simple platitudes. Readers are bound to come away with deep empathy for both Sasha and Richard. VERDICT Slater artfully unfolds a complex and layered tale about two teens whose lives intersect with painful consequences. This work will spark discussions about identity, community, and what it means to achieve justice." -- School Library Journal starred review "With a journalist's eye for overlooked details, Slater does a masterful job debunking the myths of the hate-crime monster and the African-American thug, probing the line between adolescent stupidity and irredeemable depravity. Few readers will traverse this exploration of gender identity, adolescent crime, and penal racism without having a few assumptions challenged. An outstanding book that links the diversity of creed and the impact of impulsive actions to themes of tolerance and forgiveness." -- Kirkus starred review " Using details gleaned from interviews, social media, surveillance video, public records, and other sources, Slater skillfully conveys the complexities of both young people's lives and the courage and compassion of their families, friends, and advocates, while exploring the challenges and moral ambiguities of the criminal justice system. This painful story illuminates, cautions, and inspires." -- Publishers Weekly starred review "It is likely that this account will spark conversations, debates, and contemplation, perhaps leading readers to define for themselves what justice means."-- VOYA " [A] multi-layered lesson on the healing power of humanity." -- Shelf Awareness starred review "...a powerful story of class and race (Sasha is white), gender and identity, justice and mercy, love and hate. Slater has crafted a compelling true-crime story with ramifications for our most vulnerable youth." -- The Horn Book, Stonewall Book Award--Mike Morgan & Larry Romans Children's & Young Adult Literature Award Winner YALSA Award for Excellence in Nonfiction for Young Adults Finalist A TAYSHAS Top Ten Book A School Library Journal Best Books of 2017! A Washington Post Best Book of 2017! One of The New York City Public Library Notable 50 Best Books for Teens! The California Book Awards Young Adult Winner! An ILA Notable Book for a Global Society! Oklahoma Sequoyah Book Award Winner! "A sensitive study of an incident wrapped up in so many modern conundrums." -- T he Financial Times "The text shifts from straightforward reporting to lyrical meditations, never veering into oversentimentality or simple platitudes. Readers are bound to come away with deep empathy for both Sasha and Richard. VERDICT Slater artfully unfolds a complex and layered tale about two teens whose lives intersect with painful consequences. This work will spark discussions about identity, community, and what it means to achieve justice." -- School Library Journal starred review "With a journalist's eye for overlooked details, Slater does a masterful job debunking the myths of the hate-crime monster and the African-American thug, probing the line between adolescent stupidity and irredeemable depravity. Few readers will traverse this exploration of gender identity, adolescent crime, and penal racism without having a few assumptions challenged. An outstanding book that links the diversity of creed and the impact of impulsive actions to themes of tolerance and forgiveness." -- Kirkus starred review " Using details gleaned from interviews, social media, surveillance video, public records, and other sources, Slater skillfully conveys the complexities of both young people's lives and the courage and compassion of their families, friends, and advocates, while exploring the challenges and moral ambiguities of the criminal justice system. This painful story illuminates, cautions, and inspires." -- Publishers Weekly starred review "It is likely that this account will spark conversations, debates, and contemplation, perhaps leading readers to define for themselves what justice means."-- VOYA " [A] multi-layered lesson on the healing power of humanity." -- Shelf Awareness starred review "...a powerful story of class and race (Sasha is white), gender and identity, justice and mercy, love and hate. Slater has crafted a compelling true-crime story with ramifications for our most vulnerable youth." -- The Horn Book, "The text shifts from straightforward reporting to lyrical meditations, never veering into oversentimentality or simple platitudes. Readers are bound to come away with deep empathy for both Sasha and Richard. VERDICT Slater artfully unfolds a complex and layered tale about two teens whose lives intersect with painful consequences. This work will spark discussions about identity, community, and what it means to achieve justice." -- SLJ starred review "With a journalist's eye for overlooked details, Slater does a masterful job debunking the myths of the hate-crime monster and the African-American thug, probing the line between adolescent stupidity and irredeemable depravity. Few readers will traverse this exploration of gender identity, adolescent crime, and penal racism without having a few assumptions challenged. An outstanding book that links the diversity of creed and the impact of impulsive actions to themes of tolerance and forgiveness." -- Kirkus starred review " Using details gleaned from interviews, social media, surveillance video, public records, and other sources, Slater skillfully conveys the complexities of both young people's lives and the courage and compassion of their families, friends, and advocates, while exploring the challenges and moral ambiguities of the criminal justice system. This painful story illuminates, cautions, and inspires." -- PW starred review, Stonewall Book Award--Mike Morgan & Larry Romans Children's & Young Adult Literature Award Winner YALSA Award for Excellence in Nonfiction for Young Adults Finalist A Boston Globe-Horn Book Nonfiction Honor Book Winner A TAYSHAS Top Ten Book #1 School Library Journal : Teen Librarian Tool Box Best LGBTQIA+ Book A 2019 Texas Topaz Nonfiction Reading List Book Illinois Teen Readers' Choice Award A James Cook Honor Book A School Library Journal Best Book of 2017! A Washington Post Best Book of 2017! One of The New York City Public Library Notable 50 Best Books for Teens! The California Book Awards Young Adult Winner! An ILA Notable Book for a Global Society! Oklahoma Sequoyah Book Award Winner! Maryland Association of School Librarians YA Nominee! The Florida Teens Read Hope Speak List Book Choice! The Green Mountain Book Award Winner! A 2020 Grand Canyon Nominee! "A sensitive study of an incident wrapped up in so many modern conundrums." -- T he Financial Times "The text shifts from straightforward reporting to lyrical meditations, never veering into oversentimentality or simple platitudes. Readers are bound to come away with deep empathy for both Sasha and Richard. VERDICT Slater artfully unfolds a complex and layered tale about two teens whose lives intersect with painful consequences. This work will spark discussions about identity, community, and what it means to achieve justice." -- School Library Journal starred review "With a journalist's eye for overlooked details, Slater does a masterful job debunking the myths of the hate-crime monster and the African-American thug, probing the line between adolescent stupidity and irredeemable depravity. Few readers will traverse this exploration of gender identity, adolescent crime, and penal racism without having a few assumptions challenged. An outstanding book that links the diversity of creed and the impact of impulsive actions to themes of tolerance and forgiveness." -- Kirkus starred review " Using details gleaned from interviews, social media, surveillance video, public records, and other sources, Slater skillfully conveys the complexities of both young people's lives and the courage and compassion of their families, friends, and advocates, while exploring the challenges and moral ambiguities of the criminal justice system. This painful story illuminates, cautions, and inspires." -- Publishers Weekly starred review "It is likely that this account will spark conversations, debates, and contemplation, perhaps leading readers to define for themselves what justice means."-- VOYA " [A] multi-layered lesson on the healing power of humanity." -- Shelf Awareness starred review "...a powerful story of class and race (Sasha is white), gender and identity, justice and mercy, love and hate. Slater has crafted a compelling true-crime story with ramifications for our most vulnerable youth." -- The Horn Book "This book challenged my views and it started a conversation in my house that I thought I'd never have. We all changed, at least in my house, because of this book." --Kate Terbush, The LA Times, A School Library Journal Best Booksof 2017! A Washing Post Best Book of 2017! "The text shifts from straightforward reporting to lyrical meditations, never veering into oversentimentality or simple platitudes. Readers are bound to come away with deep empathy for both Sasha and Richard. VERDICT Slater artfully unfolds a complex and layered tale about two teens whose lives intersect with painful consequences. This work will spark discussions about identity, community, and what it means to achieve justice." -- School Library Journal starred review "With a journalist's eye for overlooked details, Slater does a masterful job debunking the myths of the hate-crime monster and the African-American thug, probing the line between adolescent stupidity and irredeemable depravity. Few readers will traverse this exploration of gender identity, adolescent crime, and penal racism without having a few assumptions challenged. An outstanding book that links the diversity of creed and the impact of impulsive actions to themes of tolerance and forgiveness." -- Kirkus starred review " Using details gleaned from interviews, social media, surveillance video, public records, and other sources, Slater skillfully conveys the complexities of both young people's lives and the courage and compassion of their families, friends, and advocates, while exploring the challenges and moral ambiguities of the criminal justice system. This painful story illuminates, cautions, and inspires." -- Publishers Weekly starred review "It is likely that this account will spark conversations, debates, and contemplation, perhaps leading readers to define for themselves what justice means."-- VOYA " [A] multi-layered lesson on the healing power of humanity." -- Shelf Awareness starred review, "The text shifts from straightforward reporting to lyrical meditations, never veering into oversentimentality or simple platitudes. Readers are bound to come away with deep empathy for both Sasha and Richard. VERDICT Slater artfully unfolds a complex and layered tale about two teens whose lives intersect with painful consequences. This work will spark discussions about identity, community, and what it means to achieve justice." -- SLJ starred review "With a journalist's eye for overlooked details, Slater does a masterful job debunking the myths of the hate-crime monster and the African-American thug, probing the line between adolescent stupidity and irredeemable depravity. Few readers will traverse this exploration of gender identity, adolescent crime, and penal racism without having a few assumptions challenged. An outstanding book that links the diversity of creed and the impact of impulsive actions to themes of tolerance and forgiveness." -- Kirkus starred review, Stonewall Book Award--Mike Morgan & Larry Romans Children's & Young Adult Literature Award Winner YALSA Award for Excellence in Nonfiction for Young Adults Finalist A Boston Globe-Horn Book Nonfiction Honor Book Winner A TAYSHAS Top Ten Book A 2019 Texas Topaz Nonfiction Reading List Book A School Library Journal Best Book of 2017! A Washington Post Best Book of 2017! One of The New York City Public Library Notable 50 Best Books for Teens! The California Book Awards Young Adult Winner! An ILA Notable Book for a Global Society! Oklahoma Sequoyah Book Award Winner! "A sensitive study of an incident wrapped up in so many modern conundrums." -- T he Financial Times "The text shifts from straightforward reporting to lyrical meditations, never veering into oversentimentality or simple platitudes. Readers are bound to come away with deep empathy for both Sasha and Richard. VERDICT Slater artfully unfolds a complex and layered tale about two teens whose lives intersect with painful consequences. This work will spark discussions about identity, community, and what it means to achieve justice." -- School Library Journal starred review "With a journalist's eye for overlooked details, Slater does a masterful job debunking the myths of the hate-crime monster and the African-American thug, probing the line between adolescent stupidity and irredeemable depravity. Few readers will traverse this exploration of gender identity, adolescent crime, and penal racism without having a few assumptions challenged. An outstanding book that links the diversity of creed and the impact of impulsive actions to themes of tolerance and forgiveness." -- Kirkus starred review " Using details gleaned from interviews, social media, surveillance video, public records, and other sources, Slater skillfully conveys the complexities of both young people's lives and the courage and compassion of their families, friends, and advocates, while exploring the challenges and moral ambiguities of the criminal justice system. This painful story illuminates, cautions, and inspires." -- Publishers Weekly starred review "It is likely that this account will spark conversations, debates, and contemplation, perhaps leading readers to define for themselves what justice means."-- VOYA " [A] multi-layered lesson on the healing power of humanity." -- Shelf Awareness starred review "...a powerful story of class and race (Sasha is white), gender and identity, justice and mercy, love and hate. Slater has crafted a compelling true-crime story with ramifications for our most vulnerable youth." -- The Horn Book, Stonewall Book Award--Mike Morgan & Larry Romans Children's & Young Adult Literature Award Winner YALSA Award for Excellence in Nonfiction for Young Adults Finalist A Boston Globe-Horn Book Nonfiction Honor Book Winner A TAYSHAS Top Ten Book #1 School Library Journal : Teen Librarian Tool Box Best LGBTQIA+ Book A 2019 Texas Topaz Nonfiction Reading List Book Illinois Teen Readers' Choice Award A James Cook Honor Book A School Library Journal Best Book of 2017! A Washington Post Best Book of 2017! One of The New York City Public Library Notable 50 Best Books for Teens! The California Book Awards Young Adult Winner! An ILA Notable Book for a Global Society! Oklahoma Sequoyah Book Award Winner! Maryland Association of School Librarians YA Nominee! The Florida Teens Read Hope Speak List Book Choice! The Green Mountain Book Award Winner! A 2020 Grand Canyon Nominee! "A sensitive study of an incident wrapped up in so many modern conundrums." -- T he Financial Times "The text shifts from straightforward reporting to lyrical meditations, never veering into oversentimentality or simple platitudes. Readers are bound to come away with deep empathy for both Sasha and Richard. VERDICT Slater artfully unfolds a complex and layered tale about two teens whose lives intersect with painful consequences. This work will spark discussions about identity, community, and what it means to achieve justice." -- School Library Journal starred review "With a journalist's eye for overlooked details, Slater does a masterful job debunking the myths of the hate-crime monster and the African-American thug, probing the line between adolescent stupidity and irredeemable depravity. Few readers will traverse this exploration of gender identity, adolescent crime, and penal racism without having a few assumptions challenged. An outstanding book that links the diversity of creed and the impact of impulsive actions to themes of tolerance and forgiveness." -- Kirkus starred review " Using details gleaned from interviews, social media, surveillance video, public records, and other sources, Slater skillfully conveys the complexities of both young people's lives and the courage and compassion of their families, friends, and advocates, while exploring the challenges and moral ambiguities of the criminal justice system. This painful story illuminates, cautions, and inspires." -- Publishers Weekly starred review "It is likely that this account will spark conversations, debates, and contemplation, perhaps leading readers to define for themselves what justice means."-- VOYA " [A] multi-layered lesson on the healing power of humanity." -- Shelf Awareness starred review "...a powerful story of class and race (Sasha is white), gender and identity, justice and mercy, love and hate. Slater has crafted a compelling true-crime story with ramifications for our most vulnerable youth." -- The Horn Book
