Long Way Down

All American Boys

Jason Reynolds and Brendan Kiely

A powerful dual-perspective novel about police brutality and racial injustice. Written by Reynolds himself, the book shares thematic similarities with Long Way Down in its raw examination of violence, community, and personal accountability. It explores how systemic racism impacts young people's lives and choices.

The Hate U Give

Angie Thomas

A powerful novel about a teenage girl confronting systemic racism and police violence after witnessing her friend's shooting. Like Long Way Down, it explores grief, violence, and the complex moral choices facing young Black youth in marginalized communities. The book addresses cycles of violence and the impact of street culture on adolescent decision-making.

Speak

Laurie Halse Anderson

A groundbreaking novel about trauma, silence, and personal recovery. Like Long Way Down, it explores a young person's internal struggle and path to healing. The book addresses difficult emotional terrain and personal resilience in the face of profound challenges.

Dear Martin

Nic Stone

A compelling novel about a Black teenager navigating racism, violence, and personal identity. The book confronts similar themes of racial injustice and personal response to systemic violence as Long Way Down. It explores a young man's struggle with societal expectations and personal moral choices.

How It Went Down

Kekla Magoon

A powerful novel about community response to a shooting, told through multiple perspectives. Similar to Long Way Down, it explores the ripple effects of violence and the complex moral landscape of marginalized communities. The book examines grief, justice, and personal accountability.

Monster

Walter Dean Myers

A groundbreaking novel about a teenage boy on trial for murder, told through screenplay format and journal entries. The book examines youth, justice, and the psychological impact of violence, similar to Reynolds's exploration of trauma and moral complexity. It delves into systemic inequalities and the challenging choices young men of color face.

Piecing Me Together

Renée Watson

A nuanced exploration of race, privilege, and personal empowerment through a young Black girl's perspective. The novel shares thematic elements with Long Way Down in its examination of community, identity, and personal agency. It addresses systemic challenges and individual resilience.

Ghost

Jason Reynolds

Part of Reynolds's Track series, this novel follows a young athlete dealing with trauma and finding redemption through sports. Like Long Way Down, it explores a young Black protagonist's journey through challenging circumstances. The book addresses family dynamics, personal growth, and overcoming systemic obstacles.

Internment

Samira Ahmed

A powerful dystopian novel addressing systemic oppression and resistance. Similar to Long Way Down, it explores themes of injustice, personal agency, and community response. The book examines how individuals confront systemic challenges and maintain hope.

All the Bright Places

Jennifer Niven

A poignant novel about mental health, trauma, and personal connection. While different in style, it shares thematic depth with Long Way Down in exploring young people's emotional landscapes. The book addresses grief, personal struggle, and the impact of individual choices.