On the Come Up

Following the success of her first novel The Hate U Give, Angie Thomas has penned another urban fiction masterpiece that is certain to appeal to fans of the genre. Brianna "Bri" Jackson loves rapping like her father, the legendary Lawless who was just becoming famous when he was gunned down. Several years later, it's clear to everyone who knew him that sixteen-year-old Bri inherited her dad's talent and some even start calling her L'il Law. As much as she idolized her dad, though, she wants to make it on her own and win rap battles with her own skills, not because of her father's notoriety. But it seems that making it big will require her to sacrifice her identity and values. Is she willing to do whatever it takes to make sure her mother and brother have a roof over their heads and food to eat? Though it's a rather lengthy novel, the relationships between the characters (Bri and her family and friends) as well as the authentic dialog move the plot along at a quick pace, making this a highly satisfying read.