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Invisible Son
From the award-winning and critically acclaimed author of This Is My America comes another thriller about a wrongly accused teen desperate to recclaim both his innocence and his first love.
Life can change in an instant.
When you’re wrongfully accused of a crime.
When a virus shuts everything down.
When the girl you love moves on.
Andre Jackson is determined to reclaim his identity. But returning from juvie doesn’t feel like coming home. His Portland, Oregon, neighborhood is rapidly gentrifying, and COVID-19 shuts down school before he can return. And Andre’s suspicions about his arrest for a crime he didn’t commit even taint his friendships. It’s as if his whole life has been erased.
The one thing Andre is counting on is his relationship with the Whitaker kids—especially his longtime crush, Sierra. But Sierra’s brother Eric is missing, and the facts don’t add up as their adoptive parents fight to keep up the act that their racially diverse family is picture-perfect. If Andre can find Eric, he just might uncover the truth about his own arrest. But in a world where power is held by a few and Andre is nearly invisible, searching for the truth is a dangerous game.
Life can change in an instant.
When you’re wrongfully accused of a crime.
When a virus shuts everything down.
When the girl you love moves on.
Andre Jackson is determined to reclaim his identity. But returning from juvie doesn’t feel like coming home. His Portland, Oregon, neighborhood is rapidly gentrifying, and COVID-19 shuts down school before he can return. And Andre’s suspicions about his arrest for a crime he didn’t commit even taint his friendships. It’s as if his whole life has been erased.
The one thing Andre is counting on is his relationship with the Whitaker kids—especially his longtime crush, Sierra. But Sierra’s brother Eric is missing, and the facts don’t add up as their adoptive parents fight to keep up the act that their racially diverse family is picture-perfect. If Andre can find Eric, he just might uncover the truth about his own arrest. But in a world where power is held by a few and Andre is nearly invisible, searching for the truth is a dangerous game.
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First published June 27, 2023
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December 1, 2022
An innocent black teenager boy’s life can change in an instant when he is in the wrong place at the wrong time! Andre Jackson : a young teenager who just wanted to have fun with his friends for one night, lowering his guard, flirting with neighbor girl he’s having a big crush.
But very next day, he finds himself convicted with a crime he didn’t commit and sent directly to the juvie after accepting plea deal. He didn’t point at the real perpetrator. Instead of becoming a rat, he accepted his unfair faith and sent to his cell to spend his time in terror, questioning his entire life.
Now he’s out, under scrutinizing eyes of his parole office who acts like he’s a member of his family, returning back to his Portland/ Oregon neighborhood to live his grandparents. Both of his parents don’t stop by earlier to see him, buried their heads to their jobs or rejecting the idea that their son is not the innocent kid they raised anymore.
The Whitaker family is his only anchor left behind from his old life. Eric and Sierra are the adopted kids of the family who are also black, exploiting the privilege to be part of a powerful family. But when he knocks their door, he realizes things also changed about the Whitakers. Her long time crush Sierra already moved on, dating with the guy who ruined his life. And Eric is his friend who can help him to clear his name is missing. He left the house at the same night of his conviction.
Andre tries to adapt in a changing and chaotic world in the middle of pandemic where schools are closed, people are stay at home quarantine, crazy politicians giving inappropriate, unreliable speeches during their rallies.
He has to find a way to prove he is innocent and he has to take his old life back! Firstly he has to find where Eric is hiding. But when he starts searching the things he’ll find may change everything about his trust to the divine justice.
The conclusion of the book truly rocked my world and shook me to the core. Andre/ Dre’s honest, realistic voice and his heart wrenching story affected me deeply. This thought provoking, unconventional, powerful book is absolutely another MUST READ from the brilliant author of This is My America.
Giving my brightest five stars!
Special thanks to NetGalley and Random House Children’s/ Random House Books for Young Readers for sharing this amazing digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest thoughts.
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But very next day, he finds himself convicted with a crime he didn’t commit and sent directly to the juvie after accepting plea deal. He didn’t point at the real perpetrator. Instead of becoming a rat, he accepted his unfair faith and sent to his cell to spend his time in terror, questioning his entire life.
Now he’s out, under scrutinizing eyes of his parole office who acts like he’s a member of his family, returning back to his Portland/ Oregon neighborhood to live his grandparents. Both of his parents don’t stop by earlier to see him, buried their heads to their jobs or rejecting the idea that their son is not the innocent kid they raised anymore.
The Whitaker family is his only anchor left behind from his old life. Eric and Sierra are the adopted kids of the family who are also black, exploiting the privilege to be part of a powerful family. But when he knocks their door, he realizes things also changed about the Whitakers. Her long time crush Sierra already moved on, dating with the guy who ruined his life. And Eric is his friend who can help him to clear his name is missing. He left the house at the same night of his conviction.
Andre tries to adapt in a changing and chaotic world in the middle of pandemic where schools are closed, people are stay at home quarantine, crazy politicians giving inappropriate, unreliable speeches during their rallies.
He has to find a way to prove he is innocent and he has to take his old life back! Firstly he has to find where Eric is hiding. But when he starts searching the things he’ll find may change everything about his trust to the divine justice.
The conclusion of the book truly rocked my world and shook me to the core. Andre/ Dre’s honest, realistic voice and his heart wrenching story affected me deeply. This thought provoking, unconventional, powerful book is absolutely another MUST READ from the brilliant author of This is My America.
Giving my brightest five stars!
Special thanks to NetGalley and Random House Children’s/ Random House Books for Young Readers for sharing this amazing digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest thoughts.
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July 12, 2023
Actual rating 3.5 stars.
Let’s start with the cover. It’s gorgeous! And even though I shouldn’t, I do judge books by their cover. When I first saw the cover, I read something about a wrongly accused Black teen and decided the cover and the blurb were fantastic and immediately wanted to read Andre’s story. The moment I opened my ereader my eyes fell on the names of the chapters and those names made me giddy with pleasure. I love chapter names called after song titles, in this case great eighties and nineties songs, so I eagerly started reading.
Kim Johnson gave Andre a tight and passionate voice. From the first page on, I felt Andre’s struggles. Wearing an ankle monitor, out in the world again but not really free, searching for his friend Eric, all those things made Andre an admirable MC who stood up to his believes while dealing with being a Black boy and its consequences daily. The ending of the story broke me in pieces and made tears well up on my eyes. The impact of this book is comparable to books like Dear Martin, The Hate U Give, and The Cost of Knowing.
HOWEVER
I hate to say this, but I liked the story less because of the setting in 2020 during COVID. I’m just happy that the feeling of being enclosed is over. I fully understand why Kim Johnson set this story during this period, it added an even more suffocated and tense feeling to the novel, but I’ve found out that I just don’t want to read anything about it yet.
So, if this book just had been about Andre’s struggles as a wrongly accused Black teen, I probably would have rated it a full five stars. Now I sadly rounded my 3.5 star rating rating down. But this is entirely on me, and if you don’t mind reading about COVID, I highly recommend picking up this powerful YA novel!
I received an ARC from Random House Children’s and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
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Let’s start with the cover. It’s gorgeous! And even though I shouldn’t, I do judge books by their cover. When I first saw the cover, I read something about a wrongly accused Black teen and decided the cover and the blurb were fantastic and immediately wanted to read Andre’s story. The moment I opened my ereader my eyes fell on the names of the chapters and those names made me giddy with pleasure. I love chapter names called after song titles, in this case great eighties and nineties songs, so I eagerly started reading.
Kim Johnson gave Andre a tight and passionate voice. From the first page on, I felt Andre’s struggles. Wearing an ankle monitor, out in the world again but not really free, searching for his friend Eric, all those things made Andre an admirable MC who stood up to his believes while dealing with being a Black boy and its consequences daily. The ending of the story broke me in pieces and made tears well up on my eyes. The impact of this book is comparable to books like Dear Martin, The Hate U Give, and The Cost of Knowing.
HOWEVER
I hate to say this, but I liked the story less because of the setting in 2020 during COVID. I’m just happy that the feeling of being enclosed is over. I fully understand why Kim Johnson set this story during this period, it added an even more suffocated and tense feeling to the novel, but I’ve found out that I just don’t want to read anything about it yet.
So, if this book just had been about Andre’s struggles as a wrongly accused Black teen, I probably would have rated it a full five stars. Now I sadly rounded my 3.5 star rating rating down. But this is entirely on me, and if you don’t mind reading about COVID, I highly recommend picking up this powerful YA novel!
I received an ARC from Random House Children’s and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
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May 6, 2023
I wanted to love this book, unfortunately this just wasn't for me.
My sincerest apologies to the author, however that does not mean a different book will not be a perfect choice.
My sincerest apologies to the author, however that does not mean a different book will not be a perfect choice.
November 12, 2023
Don’t judge a book by its cover… well I did and I’m glad!
Let’s just firstly get this out the way. The cover!!! It is sooo beautiful and mesmerising. I was drawn to the book instantly when I saw it!
Invisible son was everything and more! I was gripped to the story from the word go and digested it in one sitting.
I was rooting for Dre and wanted him to get to the bottom of the mystery of his lost friend. My heart broke quite a plenty at different parts of the book and if someone had told me I was reading a non-fiction I wouldn’t have batted an eyelid. This book felt way too real!
One of the reveals at the end had my jaw dropped whilst also not surprised 😒
This was a great read and I can’t wait to read more from Ms Jackson!
P.S This book takes place during COVID which might affect some.
Let’s just firstly get this out the way. The cover!!! It is sooo beautiful and mesmerising. I was drawn to the book instantly when I saw it!
Invisible son was everything and more! I was gripped to the story from the word go and digested it in one sitting.
I was rooting for Dre and wanted him to get to the bottom of the mystery of his lost friend. My heart broke quite a plenty at different parts of the book and if someone had told me I was reading a non-fiction I wouldn’t have batted an eyelid. This book felt way too real!
One of the reveals at the end had my jaw dropped whilst also not surprised 😒
This was a great read and I can’t wait to read more from Ms Jackson!
P.S This book takes place during COVID which might affect some.
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July 26, 2023
Trigger & Content Warnings
Racism (theme)
Racial slurs recounted
Suicide mentioned
Alcohol consumption mentioned
Smoking mentioned (cigarettes)
False incarceration of a minor
Police violence*
Gentrification
Context : The protagonist is tackled and held to the ground before his arrest. The murder of George Floyd & Breonna Taylor happens off-page.
Racism (theme)
Racial slurs recounted
Suicide mentioned
Alcohol consumption mentioned
Smoking mentioned (cigarettes)
False incarceration of a minor
Police violence*
Gentrification
Context : The protagonist is tackled and held to the ground before his arrest. The murder of George Floyd & Breonna Taylor happens off-page.
June 14, 2024
**TRIGGER WARNING: Police brutality, COVID-19, illness-related death, gentrification, mentions of - physical child abuse, suicide attempt, SA, murder**
This book was so well written that it captivated me from the first page. It is YA but does not read as such. It reads more like a nonfiction story. It does not feel fictional; it gives the energy of a personal account. This author has done well. I now understand why this has such a high rating on Goodreads.
This story was very heartbreaking. It is and was a lived truth for many black and minority individuals within this country (USA). I always feel as though when people give stories like these poor ratings; it is simply because they are forced to face and confront a truth about themselves that they are trying their hardest to avoid or not acknowledge. Much like some of the characters in the story, there is a level of performative activism that comes off as disingenuous, so when it gets put in a place in which it cannot be ignored, people get offended because they don't want to believe that it is them that behave in a way that is harmful to those around them that are apart of marginalized groups.
One of my favorite things about this book is that the chapters have titles. I feel as though that is a very lost art. Also, each chapter was named after a song from the late 80s and early 90s. You can also find the playlist of all the songs that were used in the book on Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7u2...)
I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to read books that help them understand the lived experience of black and minority people in this country, which starts when they should just be young and enjoying life.
This book was so well written that it captivated me from the first page. It is YA but does not read as such. It reads more like a nonfiction story. It does not feel fictional; it gives the energy of a personal account. This author has done well. I now understand why this has such a high rating on Goodreads.
This story was very heartbreaking. It is and was a lived truth for many black and minority individuals within this country (USA). I always feel as though when people give stories like these poor ratings; it is simply because they are forced to face and confront a truth about themselves that they are trying their hardest to avoid or not acknowledge. Much like some of the characters in the story, there is a level of performative activism that comes off as disingenuous, so when it gets put in a place in which it cannot be ignored, people get offended because they don't want to believe that it is them that behave in a way that is harmful to those around them that are apart of marginalized groups.
One of my favorite things about this book is that the chapters have titles. I feel as though that is a very lost art. Also, each chapter was named after a song from the late 80s and early 90s. You can also find the playlist of all the songs that were used in the book on Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7u2...)
I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to read books that help them understand the lived experience of black and minority people in this country, which starts when they should just be young and enjoying life.
February 3, 2025
~ “. . . acceptance gained by pretzeling yourself into other people’s visions of you never lasts.” ~
— Andre
⭐️⭐️⭐️ 3.5
Favorite Characters:
▶ Sierra • neighbor of Andre
▶ Marcus • Andre’s counselor
Favorite Part/s:
☆ Andre & Sierra making their song battle video 🎥
☆ Andre swimming for the first time back 🤿
☆ Sierra reading Eric’s letter at the protest 🪧
What I Liked:
✦ The mystery aspect, the climax, and the setting in Portland
Overall:
• This gave a whole new perspective on the pandemic, and how hard it was for certain groups
Battle of the Books - 2024-25
🎧 𝗡𝗼𝘄 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘆𝗶𝗻𝗴:
"Die With a Smile - Bruno Mara & Lady Gaga" ♢ “If the world was ending, I’d want to be next to you”
02:25 ━━━━●───── 05:34
ㅤ ㅤ◁ㅤ ❚❚ ㅤ▷ ㅤㅤ↻ ♡
— Andre
⭐️⭐️⭐️ 3.5
Favorite Characters:
▶ Sierra • neighbor of Andre
▶ Marcus • Andre’s counselor
Favorite Part/s:
☆ Andre & Sierra making their song battle video 🎥
☆ Andre swimming for the first time back 🤿
☆ Sierra reading Eric’s letter at the protest 🪧
What I Liked:
✦ The mystery aspect, the climax, and the setting in Portland
Overall:
• This gave a whole new perspective on the pandemic, and how hard it was for certain groups
Battle of the Books - 2024-25
🎧 𝗡𝗼𝘄 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘆𝗶𝗻𝗴:
"Die With a Smile - Bruno Mara & Lady Gaga" ♢ “If the world was ending, I’d want to be next to you”
02:25 ━━━━●───── 05:34
ㅤ ㅤ◁ㅤ ❚❚ ㅤ▷ ㅤㅤ↻ ♡
Want to read
November 21, 2022this cover😭💗🥺
November 27, 2023
Kim Johnson writes amazing contemporary fiction with mystery elements. The only other author who is writing this genre to the same caliber as Johnson is Angeline Boulley--and I highly recommend them both!
This book faces the issues of wrongful incarceration, the juvie system, and the systemic racism against Black people and people of color with so much thought and fearlessness. Invisible Son is also set during the COVID-19 pandemic. I hadn't read a pandemic book yet and was honestly avoiding them. I didn't know the pandemic would be a major factor in this book, but it was flawlessly incorporated and the issues it brought up (like POC being affected more than white people) were integrated perfectly.
But don't get it twisted--this book is engaging and mysterious and lovely. Our main character, Andre, deals with complicated family dynamics which are exacerbated by his parole, he's trying to figure out what happened to one of his best friends while he was in juvie, and he's trying to decode the mixed signals from his crush. I adored the personal relationships in this book and the mystery element as well.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me an e-arc in exchange for my honest review.
This book faces the issues of wrongful incarceration, the juvie system, and the systemic racism against Black people and people of color with so much thought and fearlessness. Invisible Son is also set during the COVID-19 pandemic. I hadn't read a pandemic book yet and was honestly avoiding them. I didn't know the pandemic would be a major factor in this book, but it was flawlessly incorporated and the issues it brought up (like POC being affected more than white people) were integrated perfectly.
But don't get it twisted--this book is engaging and mysterious and lovely. Our main character, Andre, deals with complicated family dynamics which are exacerbated by his parole, he's trying to figure out what happened to one of his best friends while he was in juvie, and he's trying to decode the mixed signals from his crush. I adored the personal relationships in this book and the mystery element as well.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me an e-arc in exchange for my honest review.
March 18, 2024
Invisible Son by Kim Johnson is a story about a kid who goes away to a juvenile detention center for a crime he didn’t do. On top of that he is released at a time that coronavirus is spreading throughout the world.
This book touched my soul in such a way that is so hard to describe. I could feel the pain and the suffering of the characters as I still remember when the virus was spreading and we didn’t understand what was going on. I remember the protest against the police of what happened to George Floyd. This book was an A+ read!
Thank you Netgalley and Random house for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book touched my soul in such a way that is so hard to describe. I could feel the pain and the suffering of the characters as I still remember when the virus was spreading and we didn’t understand what was going on. I remember the protest against the police of what happened to George Floyd. This book was an A+ read!
Thank you Netgalley and Random house for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 26, 2023
4.5 stars
This is my first experience with this author, but after reading this, I absolutely want to read her first book, This is My America, whose description reminds me of From the Desk of Zoe Washington, but for an older audience.
This is not an easy book to read, and sensitive readers should be aware of many trigger warnings, including abuse, attempted murder, injustice, and racism.
Andre Jackson is a teenage black boy who went to Juvenile Detention for something he didn't do. He has now been released but must wear an ankle monitor at all times, as well as be available for check-ins by his equivalent parole officer. Johnson does an amazing job painting a full picture of everything Andre is experiencing as he tries to finish his senior year at the start of the Corona Virus pandemic. I've read a few books that were set during the pandemic, but this is probably the best one that I've read. While social injustice and racism have always been the norm in our society (unfortunately), things like the pandemic make it even more extreme, and those who are already suffering just suffer more.
On top of the pandemic, she also incorporated the death of George Floyd and the protests that resulted. This story takes place in Oregon and I have friends and a cousin there and they shared a lot about what was going on during that time period. I have a few friends who participated in many of those protests and this book brought it all back to me, but it highlighted even more just how hard the pandemic was for people of color.
Besides Andre, the author does a great job with his family, especially his grandfather, but also his parents, and several of the people who were in his corner. It was very apparent that while he always tried to do the right thing, things could have gotten so much worse for him if it were not for the community surrounding him that actually believed in him and wanted to see him succeed. In particular, I liked his interactions with his boss and his parole officer.
I also loved how music was such an important part of his daily life and how his Youtube channel helped him to find himself again, with support from the world. Yes, there were haters on his channel as well, but I liked that he was able to find support in something he loved.
Readers of Angie Thomas, Jason Reynolds, and Nic Stone would probably love this one as well.
I received an advance review copy for free from NetGalley and the publishers, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is my first experience with this author, but after reading this, I absolutely want to read her first book, This is My America, whose description reminds me of From the Desk of Zoe Washington, but for an older audience.
This is not an easy book to read, and sensitive readers should be aware of many trigger warnings, including abuse, attempted murder, injustice, and racism.
Andre Jackson is a teenage black boy who went to Juvenile Detention for something he didn't do. He has now been released but must wear an ankle monitor at all times, as well as be available for check-ins by his equivalent parole officer. Johnson does an amazing job painting a full picture of everything Andre is experiencing as he tries to finish his senior year at the start of the Corona Virus pandemic. I've read a few books that were set during the pandemic, but this is probably the best one that I've read. While social injustice and racism have always been the norm in our society (unfortunately), things like the pandemic make it even more extreme, and those who are already suffering just suffer more.
On top of the pandemic, she also incorporated the death of George Floyd and the protests that resulted. This story takes place in Oregon and I have friends and a cousin there and they shared a lot about what was going on during that time period. I have a few friends who participated in many of those protests and this book brought it all back to me, but it highlighted even more just how hard the pandemic was for people of color.
Besides Andre, the author does a great job with his family, especially his grandfather, but also his parents, and several of the people who were in his corner. It was very apparent that while he always tried to do the right thing, things could have gotten so much worse for him if it were not for the community surrounding him that actually believed in him and wanted to see him succeed. In particular, I liked his interactions with his boss and his parole officer.
I also loved how music was such an important part of his daily life and how his Youtube channel helped him to find himself again, with support from the world. Yes, there were haters on his channel as well, but I liked that he was able to find support in something he loved.
Readers of Angie Thomas, Jason Reynolds, and Nic Stone would probably love this one as well.
I received an advance review copy for free from NetGalley and the publishers, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 4, 2023
This was a great YA novel layered with some heavy elements involving police brutality, covid-19, false accusations, harassment, abuse, injustice, and black boyhood. When I say I devoured this audiobook I ordered a physical copy just to put on my shelf cause why not!!!
From the beginning I was immediately immersed into the story. The title and the cover of the book itself is what initially attracted me to it. Then once I understood the backstory behind the title I thought it was very creative.
The novel follows Andre Jackson a wrongfully accused teen desperate to recclaim both his innocence and his first love. When he’s released from juvie it doesn’t really feel like he’s going home. The neighborhood he’s from in Portland, Oregon is rapidly gentrifying, and COVID-19 shuts down school before he can return. But that’s the least of his worries Andre’s suspicions about his arrest for a crime he didn’t commit taints his friendships and nearly erases his entire life. But that doesn’t stop him from looking for Eric the so called friend he believes is behind his arrest. Andre didn’t realize searching for the truth would be a dangerous game.
The plot was very intense and fascinating with the many twists and turns I wasn't really expecting. Johnson’s writing style not only brought the characters to life but the settings backdrop with covid and mentions of real life events that involved police brutality provides a unique atmosphere to the novel. It was fast-paced, action-packed, and filled with so much mystery and suspense. I was on the edge of my seat almost the entire time especially when Mr.Whittaker started acting weird and followed Andre.
Overall, the book was amazing from the vividness and it being so authentic and relatable. The dialogue was very realistic, the character development was great. I also liked how Johnson maintained the suspense surrounding Eric until the end. Definitely recommend y’all read this one!!!
From the beginning I was immediately immersed into the story. The title and the cover of the book itself is what initially attracted me to it. Then once I understood the backstory behind the title I thought it was very creative.
The novel follows Andre Jackson a wrongfully accused teen desperate to recclaim both his innocence and his first love. When he’s released from juvie it doesn’t really feel like he’s going home. The neighborhood he’s from in Portland, Oregon is rapidly gentrifying, and COVID-19 shuts down school before he can return. But that’s the least of his worries Andre’s suspicions about his arrest for a crime he didn’t commit taints his friendships and nearly erases his entire life. But that doesn’t stop him from looking for Eric the so called friend he believes is behind his arrest. Andre didn’t realize searching for the truth would be a dangerous game.
The plot was very intense and fascinating with the many twists and turns I wasn't really expecting. Johnson’s writing style not only brought the characters to life but the settings backdrop with covid and mentions of real life events that involved police brutality provides a unique atmosphere to the novel. It was fast-paced, action-packed, and filled with so much mystery and suspense. I was on the edge of my seat almost the entire time especially when Mr.Whittaker started acting weird and followed Andre.
Overall, the book was amazing from the vividness and it being so authentic and relatable. The dialogue was very realistic, the character development was great. I also liked how Johnson maintained the suspense surrounding Eric until the end. Definitely recommend y’all read this one!!!
July 11, 2023
Love a book with song titles as the chapters! The story was definitely a slow burn, but worth it at the end! It covered so many topics: covid, black teen coming of age, incarceration, gentrification, police brutality…just to name a few! I loved the way the author weaved the narrative into a mystery. I wouldn’t necessarily call this a thriller but maybe a domestic drama with whodunnit themes. I’d definitely recommend this book and I can’t wait to read more from this author!
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion!
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion!
January 4, 2024
This took me 3 tries to get into. After living through 2020, this felt like just a repeat of life in America that year. We see Andre's experience with social distancing, masking, and loved ones falling ill with COVID-19. Andre talks about videos of George Floyd, the death of Breonna Taylor ("We aren't safe in our homes, we aren't safe anywhere"), and attending BLM protests. This is all handled well, I just struggled with it having lived through the hell of 2020 myself.
Through all this, Andre is trying to prove his innocence as yet another young black teen charged with a crime he did not commit. Secrets are revealed along the way, and the mystery element of the book was very well done and finally hooked me later in the story.
If I hadn't lived through the hell of 2020 myself, I would have liked this book much more.
Through all this, Andre is trying to prove his innocence as yet another young black teen charged with a crime he did not commit. Secrets are revealed along the way, and the mystery element of the book was very well done and finally hooked me later in the story.
If I hadn't lived through the hell of 2020 myself, I would have liked this book much more.
February 12, 2024
Powerful and impactful audiobook. Guy Lockard is a good narrator.
July 20, 2023
Highly recommend this YA. Timely. Great multilayered rich story, great character development. Strong social commentary.
December 29, 2023
Andre Jackson is just getting out of juvenile detention for a crime he didn’t commit, and returning to his Portland, Oregon neighborhood is tougher than he thought, despite only being gone two months. He immediately notices changes. The area is quickly gentrifying, his father’s bookstore is not doing so well, and his close friend Eric is now missing. Sierra, Eric’s biological sister, is close with Andre, for her adopted family, the Whitakers, live right across the street. As Andre tries to live a “normal” life with his ankle monitor and daily check-ins with his “counselor,” he can’t help but think the details of Eric’s disappearance, and his own arrest, don’t add up. As he begins snooping around, Andres realizes there’s a lot he doesn’t know. A lot that people are keeping hidden. The Whitakers aren’t the picture perfect family they appear to be.
Another gripping, intense, and all-too-real story from Kim Johnson. Like her first book, This Is My America, Johnson weaves together important topics like gentrification, racism, the juvenile justice system, adoption, family, friendship, and love. This novel’s pacing was perfect, and readers who like mysteries will find themselves guessing until the very end. I can’t wait to book talk this one. Like Johnson says at the end of her author’s note, Andre, Sierra, Eric, and the others may not be real, but people like them can be found everywhere.
Another gripping, intense, and all-too-real story from Kim Johnson. Like her first book, This Is My America, Johnson weaves together important topics like gentrification, racism, the juvenile justice system, adoption, family, friendship, and love. This novel’s pacing was perfect, and readers who like mysteries will find themselves guessing until the very end. I can’t wait to book talk this one. Like Johnson says at the end of her author’s note, Andre, Sierra, Eric, and the others may not be real, but people like them can be found everywhere.
August 17, 2023
Okay the plot is really good, its just the constant mentions to COVID, the on and off references are too much for me.
July 20, 2023
After returning from a juvenile detention center, Andre becomes aware of who he was and the life he lived before are forever changed. Although he was wrongly accused, he realizes his identity and innocence are questioned and tainted. To add to this, his neighborhood is being gentrified, his family dynamics are changed, and one of his friends is missing-and the efforts to find his missing friend are non-existent. Now, Andre's world feels small and calculated. This leads him to facing a suspicion he's tried so long to extinguish, Andre was set up to take the blame for a crime he did not commit. Even more, he wonders if the disappearance of his friend Eric is related to being framed. Because of the limitations set by his release and the COVID-19 virus, Will Andre be able to clear his name, find his friend, and follow the expectations set by his community release?
This is an overall amazing read. There were moments I felt were strung out but this is an amazing read nonetheless. Invisible Son efficiently demonstrates the collective heaviness, grief, and isolation experienced by the Black community at the start of the pandemic. This novel narrates the fake outrage and fake support given to Black, brown, and poor communities during the beginning of the pandemic as it was seen as a trend. Furthermore, Invisible Son illuminates the consequences and impacts of juvenile corrections, the need for community care, youth advocacy, the positive use of social media, transracial adoption, gentrification, and a wealth of other important topics.
This is an overall amazing read. There were moments I felt were strung out but this is an amazing read nonetheless. Invisible Son efficiently demonstrates the collective heaviness, grief, and isolation experienced by the Black community at the start of the pandemic. This novel narrates the fake outrage and fake support given to Black, brown, and poor communities during the beginning of the pandemic as it was seen as a trend. Furthermore, Invisible Son illuminates the consequences and impacts of juvenile corrections, the need for community care, youth advocacy, the positive use of social media, transracial adoption, gentrification, and a wealth of other important topics.
June 15, 2023
Wow!! This book was intense, emotional, and important read not only for a YA audience but for all readers!
It follows a teenage Black boy who was just released from juvie after being convicted of a crime he didn’t commit. Eager to find the answers surrounding his arrest, all while being confined to his ankle monitor during the height of the pandemic, Johnson dives into important themes like community, found family, and power.
When I started this I was curious as to why the author chose the story to be set in 2020 knowing it is a triggering time for many readers. However, once you get more into the plot, her intentions become clear, and I do think she handles the sensitive time period well.
It follows a teenage Black boy who was just released from juvie after being convicted of a crime he didn’t commit. Eager to find the answers surrounding his arrest, all while being confined to his ankle monitor during the height of the pandemic, Johnson dives into important themes like community, found family, and power.
When I started this I was curious as to why the author chose the story to be set in 2020 knowing it is a triggering time for many readers. However, once you get more into the plot, her intentions become clear, and I do think she handles the sensitive time period well.
May 1, 2024
Set during the early months of the coronavirus this story takes you back to those days of isolation, empty streets, and protests after George Floyd's killing. Andre has just been released from juvie after serving time for a crime he didn't commit. With an ankle monitor and a probation officer, Dre just wants to get back to normal. But normal is no more. Wanting to know more about what led to his arrest and figure out what happened to his next door neighbor Eric proves to be difficult. This book brings back so many of the feelings we experienced during covid 19. The chapters are all song titles which is neat.
June 9, 2023
Kim Johnson has a way of presenting the reality of systemic racism in a highly engaging story. An improvement over her first book, which I also liked.
I also loved the music references in the chapter titles.
I also loved the music references in the chapter titles.
February 26, 2024
3.5 rounded up
This is very important book, and if I were still in the classroom, I'd be thinking about how to teach it. I felt that there were major pacing issues though, and if the whole book was like the last 30%, it would have been 5 stars,
This is very important book, and if I were still in the classroom, I'd be thinking about how to teach it. I felt that there were major pacing issues though, and if the whole book was like the last 30%, it would have been 5 stars,
March 20, 2023
Another must read book by Kim Johnson.
Andre (Dre) has recently left juvie and on probation with an ankle monitor (even though he is innocent)right around the time the pandemic is just starting out. He is looking for a way to reclaim his identity and now looking for his friend who he didn't realize was missing the whole time he was gone. While searching for a way to clear his name and for his missing friend, things are starting not to add up at all. Will he ever find the answers he is looking for?
Andre (Dre) has recently left juvie and on probation with an ankle monitor (even though he is innocent)right around the time the pandemic is just starting out. He is looking for a way to reclaim his identity and now looking for his friend who he didn't realize was missing the whole time he was gone. While searching for a way to clear his name and for his missing friend, things are starting not to add up at all. Will he ever find the answers he is looking for?
April 26, 2023
This is My America was one of my top books from 2020, so I have been VERY anxiously awaiting the release of Invisible Son. I absolutely jumped at my chance to get my hands on an ARC, and I was not disappointed.
Note: I am not going to add a trigger warning list here, because it would be lengthy, and I’m sure I would likely miss something, but be aware that if you are a sensitive reader, you may wish to seek out such a list before reading.
Invisible Son is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that delves into the complexities of racial identity, societal prejudices, and the process of reclaiming one's life after a wrongful conviction. The story masterfully intertwines the turbulent events of 2020, including the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic, the horrific death of George Floyd, and the ensuing Black Lives Matter protests that engulfed Portland, Oregon. It thrust me right back into that scene and those months, and I could palpably feel the same type of anxiety, dread, and other emotions that I was feeling at the time.
Johnson's skillful portrayal of Andre Jackson, the protagonist, is one of the standout aspects of the book. Told in the first person, the reader is given an intimate window into Andre's thoughts and feelings as he navigates the difficult circumstances of his life. Johnson effectively conveys Andre's determination to reclaim his identity and seek the truth behind his wrongful arrest. His journey is both heart-wrenching and inspiring, as he grapples with feelings of isolation and a deep sense of injustice.
One of the central themes of Invisible Son is the concept of power dynamics in society. Through Andre's experiences, the novel explores how a few individuals hold the power to shape the lives of those who are marginalized and disenfranchised. The story also delves into the subject of gentrification, as Andre returns to a rapidly changing Portland neighborhood and tries to make sense of the transformations around him.
While the novel tackles heavy subject matter, it also includes a captivating mystery surrounding the disappearance of Sierra's brother, Eric. This subplot keeps the reader engaged and adds a layer of intrigue to the story. As Andre attempts to find Eric, he uncovers truths about his own arrest, and the “picture-perfect” family next door.
The one area where Invisible Son falls slightly short is the development of some of its minor characters. While Andre's character is richly detailed, some of the secondary characters lack similar depth and complexity. However, this does not detract significantly from the overall impact of the novel, as the focus is primarily on Andre and his journey. (To be fair, there is quite a large cast of secondary characters, and the most important ones are nicely developed.)
Despite this minor complaint, Invisible Son is a captivating and moving novel that offers a profound exploration of social issues, personal identity, and the power dynamics in society. Johnson's evocative writing, along with the compelling mystery and Andre's emotional journey, make this book a must-read. I highly recommend Invisible Son to anyone interested in a thought-provoking, character-driven story that tackles the difficult subject matter with nuance and empathy.
A huge thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for giving me an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Note: I am not going to add a trigger warning list here, because it would be lengthy, and I’m sure I would likely miss something, but be aware that if you are a sensitive reader, you may wish to seek out such a list before reading.
Invisible Son is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that delves into the complexities of racial identity, societal prejudices, and the process of reclaiming one's life after a wrongful conviction. The story masterfully intertwines the turbulent events of 2020, including the beginning of the coronavirus pandemic, the horrific death of George Floyd, and the ensuing Black Lives Matter protests that engulfed Portland, Oregon. It thrust me right back into that scene and those months, and I could palpably feel the same type of anxiety, dread, and other emotions that I was feeling at the time.
Johnson's skillful portrayal of Andre Jackson, the protagonist, is one of the standout aspects of the book. Told in the first person, the reader is given an intimate window into Andre's thoughts and feelings as he navigates the difficult circumstances of his life. Johnson effectively conveys Andre's determination to reclaim his identity and seek the truth behind his wrongful arrest. His journey is both heart-wrenching and inspiring, as he grapples with feelings of isolation and a deep sense of injustice.
One of the central themes of Invisible Son is the concept of power dynamics in society. Through Andre's experiences, the novel explores how a few individuals hold the power to shape the lives of those who are marginalized and disenfranchised. The story also delves into the subject of gentrification, as Andre returns to a rapidly changing Portland neighborhood and tries to make sense of the transformations around him.
While the novel tackles heavy subject matter, it also includes a captivating mystery surrounding the disappearance of Sierra's brother, Eric. This subplot keeps the reader engaged and adds a layer of intrigue to the story. As Andre attempts to find Eric, he uncovers truths about his own arrest, and the “picture-perfect” family next door.
The one area where Invisible Son falls slightly short is the development of some of its minor characters. While Andre's character is richly detailed, some of the secondary characters lack similar depth and complexity. However, this does not detract significantly from the overall impact of the novel, as the focus is primarily on Andre and his journey. (To be fair, there is quite a large cast of secondary characters, and the most important ones are nicely developed.)
Despite this minor complaint, Invisible Son is a captivating and moving novel that offers a profound exploration of social issues, personal identity, and the power dynamics in society. Johnson's evocative writing, along with the compelling mystery and Andre's emotional journey, make this book a must-read. I highly recommend Invisible Son to anyone interested in a thought-provoking, character-driven story that tackles the difficult subject matter with nuance and empathy.
A huge thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for giving me an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
June 20, 2023
I really loved this author’s previous book, This Is My America, and so was excited to get a chance to read this one. This book covered a lot! For me, it was too much and I realized part way through that the book taking place in the beginning days of COVID was just something I’m not ready to read about.
However, after reading the author’s note at the end and hearing that most of the pieces of the storyline were based off of true stories, I was really impacted. So I struggled with rating this. I think, for me, it wasn’t the right time and I wasn’t ready for the COVID setting, but I do see how many teens might be able to process that time better through reading this.
Additionally, there were lots of great themes and messages throughout, and I appreciated that.
But overall, the storyline just had too many things going on for me and while I appreciate that it’s likely similar to what some kids may have been experiencing, it was a lot to take in through one story.
So definitely check out content warnings before picking this one up. And don’t miss the author’s note at the end.
Thanks to NetGalley for the eARC.
However, after reading the author’s note at the end and hearing that most of the pieces of the storyline were based off of true stories, I was really impacted. So I struggled with rating this. I think, for me, it wasn’t the right time and I wasn’t ready for the COVID setting, but I do see how many teens might be able to process that time better through reading this.
Additionally, there were lots of great themes and messages throughout, and I appreciated that.
But overall, the storyline just had too many things going on for me and while I appreciate that it’s likely similar to what some kids may have been experiencing, it was a lot to take in through one story.
So definitely check out content warnings before picking this one up. And don’t miss the author’s note at the end.
Thanks to NetGalley for the eARC.
July 22, 2023
I really love Kim Johnson’s stories about society and social justice. They make me stop and think.
I don’t think I loved this one quite as much as This Is My America, but it was nearly there.
I thought the plot jumped around a little bit and made certain parts hard to follow.
I love Andre and I was so happy to see his life brighten up by the end. He deserved it! The way he was treated by everyone, including his family, in the beginning made my heart ache.
Overall, I would definitely recommend this!
**This book takes place during the early days of the COVID pandemic, which was obviously a very traumatic time for most of us. It also takes a very clear political stand, which some readers may not agree with**
I received a free eARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts are my own.
I don’t think I loved this one quite as much as This Is My America, but it was nearly there.
I thought the plot jumped around a little bit and made certain parts hard to follow.
I love Andre and I was so happy to see his life brighten up by the end. He deserved it! The way he was treated by everyone, including his family, in the beginning made my heart ache.
Overall, I would definitely recommend this!
**This book takes place during the early days of the COVID pandemic, which was obviously a very traumatic time for most of us. It also takes a very clear political stand, which some readers may not agree with**
I received a free eARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts are my own.
September 16, 2025
This is a rare instance where I’ve rated the book low (2.5), but I want to simultaneously strongly recommend it to folks. I’m really very sad to give this the rating I did, because there’s so much important work going on in this book that can affect the young adults who are it’s primary audience.
Unfortunately, it just felt like there was more than one novel trying to shine through, which led to a really confusing overall experience for me, personally. Johnson explains this is intentional in her authors note, but I worry the impact doesn’t match the intent. I just kept getting lost in whether this was a thriller, a romance, a contemporary fiction, a mystery, etc.
As for positives, though, this book does a fantastic job representing the racism in the justice system as well as the racism of the pandemic response in 2020 (and beyond, really). Johnson also includes resource lists at the back of the book, which is excellent, and she names each chapter after a song on Andre’s YouTube channel (where he reacts to “oldies” — adults, parents, prepare to hurt when you see what counts as oldies!).
Unfortunately, it just felt like there was more than one novel trying to shine through, which led to a really confusing overall experience for me, personally. Johnson explains this is intentional in her authors note, but I worry the impact doesn’t match the intent. I just kept getting lost in whether this was a thriller, a romance, a contemporary fiction, a mystery, etc.
As for positives, though, this book does a fantastic job representing the racism in the justice system as well as the racism of the pandemic response in 2020 (and beyond, really). Johnson also includes resource lists at the back of the book, which is excellent, and she names each chapter after a song on Andre’s YouTube channel (where he reacts to “oldies” — adults, parents, prepare to hurt when you see what counts as oldies!).
March 5, 2024
4.5/5 stars
As someone who is semi-local to this story, I loved reading about people and places that could have been (if they aren’t already idk) real.
Andre?? STELLAR. Sierra?? OUTSTANDING. BOOGIE??? Loved him.
THE PLOT??? Y’all—
My review is probably not making much sense but let me just say this:
I have read A LOT of books. And this probably goes in my top five favorite plot twists of all time.
My only *only* reason that this is not a perfect 5 star rating?? It felt like too much language.
Go ahead, call me a baby I don’t care. I’m all for freedom of speech, I get that teenagers cuss. I would rather not read it to *that extent*
But this book was excellent, I could probably see myself rereading. Might be my favorite read of the year so far.
As someone who is semi-local to this story, I loved reading about people and places that could have been (if they aren’t already idk) real.
Andre?? STELLAR. Sierra?? OUTSTANDING. BOOGIE??? Loved him.
THE PLOT??? Y’all—
My review is probably not making much sense but let me just say this:
I have read A LOT of books. And this probably goes in my top five favorite plot twists of all time.
My only *only* reason that this is not a perfect 5 star rating?? It felt like too much language.
Go ahead, call me a baby I don’t care. I’m all for freedom of speech, I get that teenagers cuss. I would rather not read it to *that extent*
But this book was excellent, I could probably see myself rereading. Might be my favorite read of the year so far.
June 19, 2023
4.5 stars. Wow. This book has everything, and parts were hard to read because it's TOO REAL. Or even just because your body remembers that time in our recent collective memory and the anxiety kicks in. But it's a must-read, and I would highly recommend it. This is a story about standing up for the truth, navigating white spaces, and succeeding even so. Beautiful.
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