Swing

In this poignant YA novel in verse by Kwame Alexander and Mary Rand Hess, best friends Noah and Walt navigate the tumultuous waters of junior year, striving to shed their "geek" identities and explore themes of first love and friendship. While Walt pursues athletic dreams and romantic interests, Noah grapples with his long-standing crush on Sam and expresses his feelings through creative artwork inspired by old love letters. As they confront personal struggles, the backdrop of social tensions and community challenges serves as a catalyst for deeper understanding and connection, ultimately leading them to reassess what truly matters in life. This engaging story addresses significant social issues, including racial prejudice and the importance of the Black Lives Matter movement.