For more free audiobook recommendations, sign up for AudioFile Magazine’s newsletter. In an AudioFile interview, Alexander said, “Good poetry-the kind that connects and resonates with readers and listeners-is work that stands on the page and on the stage.” Published by Blink. Consider it a listening companion to SOLO, also by Alexander and Hess, or the celebrated THE CROSSOVER-both Earphones Award winners.

Alexander’s strong connection to his characters shines-he’s inside the heads of these teens. If you enjoy Swing, check out Solo by Kwame Alexander and Mary Rand Hess.With a poet’s passion, Kwame Alexander narrates his novel-in-verse about high school friends Noah and Walt. contains original artwork tied to the story.is a 2020 YALSA Quick Pick for Reluctant Young Adult Readers.is perfect reading for the classroom or community-wide discussions.tackles the biggest social issues of today, including racial prejudice and Black Lives Matter.Features a diverse array of characters and perspectives.is written by New York Times bestselling author and Newbery Medal and Coretta Scott King Award-winner Kwame Alexander.Especially after he witnesses events that hint divides and prejudices run deeper than he realized.Īs the personal and social tensions increase around them, Noah and Walt must decide what is really important when it comes to love, friendship, sacrifice, and fate. While some think it's a harmless prank and others see it as a form of protest, Noah can't shake the feeling something bigger is happening to his community. But when his art becomes public, Noah has a decision to make: continue his life in the dugout and possibly lose the girl forever, or take a swing and finally speak out.Īt the same time, American flags are being left around town. Each one contains words Noah's always wanted to say to Sam, and he begins secretly creating artwork using the lines that speak his heart. While Walt focuses on his program of jazz, podcasts, batting cages, and a 'Hug Life' mentality, Noah feels stuck in status quo … until he stumbles on a stash of old love letters. Never mind he and Noah failed to make their baseball team yet again, and Noah's crush since third grade, Sam, has him firmly in the friend zone. In this YA novel in verse from bestselling authors Kwame Alexander and Mary Rand Hess ( Solo), which Kirkus called 'lively, moving, and heartfelt' in a starred review, Noah and Walt just want to leave their geek days behind and find 'cool,' but in the process discover a lot about first loves, friendship, and embracing life … as well as why Black Lives Matter is so important for all.īest friends Noah and Walt are far from popular, but Walt is convinced junior year is their year, and he has a plan that includes wooing the girls of their dreams and becoming amazing athletes.

Swing kwame alexander review