Book details
Tyler Johnson Was Here
Published in
2019
Description
A young man searches for answers after the death of his brother at the hands of police in this striking debut novel, for readers of The Hate U Give.
When Marvin Johnson's twin, Tyler, goes to a party, Marvin decides to tag along to keep an eye on his brother. But what starts as harmless fun turns into a shooting, followed by a police raid.
The next day, Tyler has gone missing, and it's up to Marvin to find him. But when Tyler is found dead, a video leaked online tells an even more chilling story: Tyler has been shot and killed by a police officer. Terrified as his mother unravels and mourning a brother who is now a hashtag, Marvin must learn what justice and freedom really mean.
Tyler Johnson Was Here is a powerful and moving portrait of youth and family that speaks to the serious issues of today--from gun control to the Black Lives Matter movement.
Age
13-14
Text complexity
intermediate
Length
304 pages
Why to read
- The book offers a powerful and authentic portrayal of the Black experience in America, tackling issues such as police brutality, systemic racism, and the struggles of growing up Black in a predominantly white community.
- The story is told through the eyes of a young Black boy named Tyler, making it a relatable and engaging read for young adults and adults alike.
- The author, Jay Coles, is a debut author who brings a fresh voice and perspective to the world of young adult literature, making the book a standout in the genre.
- The novel explores themes of identity, family, and friendship in a way that is both heartwarming and thought-provoking, making it a great choice for readers who enjoy character-driven stories.