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The Incredibly Human Henson Blayze
LONGISTED FOR THE NATIONAL BOOK AWARD • Newbery Honoree Derrick Barnes tackles timely issues of race and prejudice in this powerful, nuanced novel about an accomplished Black boy who strives to be seen for who he is.
“A novel that is empowered, empowering, and incredibly human. You won't be the same after reading it.”—Erin Entrada Kelly, two-time winner of the Newbery Medal
★ “Bold, extraordinary not to be missed.”—Kirkus Reviews, starred review
In the small town of Great Mountain, Mississippi, all eyes are on Henson Blayze, a thirteen-year-old football phenom whose talents seem almost superhuman. The predominately white townsfolk have been waiting for Henson to play high school ball, and now they’re overjoyed to finally possess an elite Black athlete of their own.
Until a horrifying incident forces Henson to speak out about injustice.
Until he says that he might not play football anymore.
Until he quickly learns he isn’t as loved by the people as he thought.
Overnight, Henson’s town is divided into two chaotic sides—those that support his decisions, and those that don’t—when all he wants is justice. Even his best friends and his father can’t see eye to eye. When he is told to play ball again or else, Henson must decide whether he was born to entertain those who may not even see him as human, or if he’s destined for a different kind of greatness.
Written for children ages 10 and up, Derrick Barnes’s groundbreaking novel masterfully combines a modern-day allegory with classic-style tall tales to weave a compelling story of America’s obsession with relegating Black people to labor or entertainment. Spanning the 1800s to today, this exceptional novel shows how much has changed over centuries . . . and, at the same time, how little.
“A novel that is empowered, empowering, and incredibly human. You won't be the same after reading it.”—Erin Entrada Kelly, two-time winner of the Newbery Medal
★ “Bold, extraordinary not to be missed.”—Kirkus Reviews, starred review
In the small town of Great Mountain, Mississippi, all eyes are on Henson Blayze, a thirteen-year-old football phenom whose talents seem almost superhuman. The predominately white townsfolk have been waiting for Henson to play high school ball, and now they’re overjoyed to finally possess an elite Black athlete of their own.
Until a horrifying incident forces Henson to speak out about injustice.
Until he says that he might not play football anymore.
Until he quickly learns he isn’t as loved by the people as he thought.
Overnight, Henson’s town is divided into two chaotic sides—those that support his decisions, and those that don’t—when all he wants is justice. Even his best friends and his father can’t see eye to eye. When he is told to play ball again or else, Henson must decide whether he was born to entertain those who may not even see him as human, or if he’s destined for a different kind of greatness.
Written for children ages 10 and up, Derrick Barnes’s groundbreaking novel masterfully combines a modern-day allegory with classic-style tall tales to weave a compelling story of America’s obsession with relegating Black people to labor or entertainment. Spanning the 1800s to today, this exceptional novel shows how much has changed over centuries . . . and, at the same time, how little.
Kindle Edition
Published September 23, 2025
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About the author
Derrick Barnes
28 books251 followersWhere I come from, no one dreams of becoming an author.
I didn’t know any famous African American male authors. I didn’t actually meet one until I attended college. I wanted to be a football player, the next Sean Combs, or a rapper; anything that would instantly provide me with the riches I would need to “move my mama off of the block”. I was raised in a single parent household by my mother, the lovely Miss Catherine Barnes, along with my big brother, Anthony, in Kansas City, MO.
My first attempt at writing a real story was in the fifth grade. I think it was about a group of stray dogs trekking across the country to find a magic bone or something. I can’t remember. But I do remember what it felt like when I finished and read it. It felt powerful to create characters, places, and stories that began and ended the way I wanted them to. After that I wrote songs, poems, plays, and short stories. I also read like crazy. I remember tying a shoestring around a flashlight, hanging it on the bar in my closet, and sitting in there reading encyclopedias. My brother thought I was the weirdest kid ever, but that was my way of traveling, of flying, and dreaming.
When I graduated from high school, I worked a couple of part time jobs and attended a local community college. I received an Associate of Arts degree in Business Administration. I went on to Jackson State University, a historically black college in Jackson, Mississippi, where I obtained Bachelor of Arts degree in Marketing. It was there that I experienced life altering events and met people that changed me forever. I met my then college sweetheart and now beautiful wife, Dr. Tinka Barnes. I met life long friends (big up to my brothers JG, Killa Don, and Noir). I also became a campus newspaper advice columnist. All three of those occurrences and acquaintances changed my life vividly, but the column, entitled Brown Sugar, gave me the confidence to write with purpose. I also felt like, for the first time, that I had something to say and that people would listen. Who wouldn't listen to a guy with the pen name "Hershey Brown"?
Upon graduation, I moved back to Kansas City with no intentions of using my brand new, shiny Marketing degree in a drab, corporate environment. With the urging of my wife, I sent a writing portfolio to Hallmark Cards, and was hired as the first African-American man in the history of the company as a staff copywriter in 1999. I worked there for three years. I learned so much about crafting my words, about editing, and about constructive criticism. While at Hallmark, I met so many talented artists and was introduced to my now literary agent, Ms. Regina Brooks of Serendipity Literary Agency. Within a month, we had a two-book deal signed with Scholastic. My wife and I also welcomed our first son into the world, Ezra.
My family and I moved to New Orleans, LA so that my wife could complete her medical residency in 2003. While there we had our second son, Solomon, and I landed a deal with Simon Pulse for my first novel, “The Making of Dr. Truelove”. We lived there for two and a half years until we were chased back to Kansas City by the most disastrous force of nature in US history, Hurricane Katrina.
We returned to KC safe and sound. My wife officially finished medical residency and became a full fledged doctor. We had our third son, Silas, and I landed a four-book deal with Scholastic for the ultra popular hit series, “Ruby and the Booker Boys”.
Some days, when I read to my sons or go to schools and read to kids, I can still see that little boy reading encyclopedias by flashlight. Hopefully, a child will meet me and say to themselves, “You know what, it’s possible. I can become an author! I’ve met, and have seen with my very own eyes, a living, breathing author. It’s definitely possible for me.”
It most certainly is.
I didn’t know any famous African American male authors. I didn’t actually meet one until I attended college. I wanted to be a football player, the next Sean Combs, or a rapper; anything that would instantly provide me with the riches I would need to “move my mama off of the block”. I was raised in a single parent household by my mother, the lovely Miss Catherine Barnes, along with my big brother, Anthony, in Kansas City, MO.
My first attempt at writing a real story was in the fifth grade. I think it was about a group of stray dogs trekking across the country to find a magic bone or something. I can’t remember. But I do remember what it felt like when I finished and read it. It felt powerful to create characters, places, and stories that began and ended the way I wanted them to. After that I wrote songs, poems, plays, and short stories. I also read like crazy. I remember tying a shoestring around a flashlight, hanging it on the bar in my closet, and sitting in there reading encyclopedias. My brother thought I was the weirdest kid ever, but that was my way of traveling, of flying, and dreaming.
When I graduated from high school, I worked a couple of part time jobs and attended a local community college. I received an Associate of Arts degree in Business Administration. I went on to Jackson State University, a historically black college in Jackson, Mississippi, where I obtained Bachelor of Arts degree in Marketing. It was there that I experienced life altering events and met people that changed me forever. I met my then college sweetheart and now beautiful wife, Dr. Tinka Barnes. I met life long friends (big up to my brothers JG, Killa Don, and Noir). I also became a campus newspaper advice columnist. All three of those occurrences and acquaintances changed my life vividly, but the column, entitled Brown Sugar, gave me the confidence to write with purpose. I also felt like, for the first time, that I had something to say and that people would listen. Who wouldn't listen to a guy with the pen name "Hershey Brown"?
Upon graduation, I moved back to Kansas City with no intentions of using my brand new, shiny Marketing degree in a drab, corporate environment. With the urging of my wife, I sent a writing portfolio to Hallmark Cards, and was hired as the first African-American man in the history of the company as a staff copywriter in 1999. I worked there for three years. I learned so much about crafting my words, about editing, and about constructive criticism. While at Hallmark, I met so many talented artists and was introduced to my now literary agent, Ms. Regina Brooks of Serendipity Literary Agency. Within a month, we had a two-book deal signed with Scholastic. My wife and I also welcomed our first son into the world, Ezra.
My family and I moved to New Orleans, LA so that my wife could complete her medical residency in 2003. While there we had our second son, Solomon, and I landed a deal with Simon Pulse for my first novel, “The Making of Dr. Truelove”. We lived there for two and a half years until we were chased back to Kansas City by the most disastrous force of nature in US history, Hurricane Katrina.
We returned to KC safe and sound. My wife officially finished medical residency and became a full fledged doctor. We had our third son, Silas, and I landed a four-book deal with Scholastic for the ultra popular hit series, “Ruby and the Booker Boys”.
Some days, when I read to my sons or go to schools and read to kids, I can still see that little boy reading encyclopedias by flashlight. Hopefully, a child will meet me and say to themselves, “You know what, it’s possible. I can become an author! I’ve met, and have seen with my very own eyes, a living, breathing author. It’s definitely possible for me.”
It most certainly is.
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October 2, 2025This is one of those reviews that can’t be summarized with stars.
Superficially, this is a coming of age; 8th grader Henson is a football star in his small Mississippi town. There are even t-shirts proclaiming him to be the Messiah…which should prepare readers for his eventual betrayal and metaphorical crucifixion, complete with Judas and Pontius Pilate figures.
Henson’s faith is important to him, but the author carefully leaves it in the background. He is a sweet, likable kid, but he and other characters come off as a bit flat—though not when you consider them through Henson’s role as a messianic figure.
The social criticism is strong, and you can hear the author really speaking through his father and “romantic” interest; symbolically, it works. It might be hard to hear, but important and exposed me to ideas I have never considered. It’s all excellent material for analysis, reflection, discussion, and as a call to action.
But the prose is clunky and riddled with clichés—this is the part that makes it hard for me to rate with stars.
There are occasional historical flashbacks and even some magical realism—the Old Testament part of this story; readers might feel like this is a pretty random unless they understand the allegory. I wish the author had held back here a bit, but I see why he included it.
Henson’s father has a role for him to fulfill, which I won’t give away, but it was force-fit into the story to push the savior metaphor. This felt so annoyingly obvious to me; often I think middle grade authors are too direct with their symbolism, but maybe this is what readers need? I have a feeling many adult readers missed all of this despite abundant biblical allusions. (This is why the Bible belongs in English classrooms along with mythology and Shakespeare!)
Overall, there are flaws, but definitely worth reading!
Superficially, this is a coming of age; 8th grader Henson is a football star in his small Mississippi town. There are even t-shirts proclaiming him to be the Messiah…which should prepare readers for his eventual betrayal and metaphorical crucifixion, complete with Judas and Pontius Pilate figures.
Henson’s faith is important to him, but the author carefully leaves it in the background. He is a sweet, likable kid, but he and other characters come off as a bit flat—though not when you consider them through Henson’s role as a messianic figure.
The social criticism is strong, and you can hear the author really speaking through his father and “romantic” interest; symbolically, it works. It might be hard to hear, but important and exposed me to ideas I have never considered. It’s all excellent material for analysis, reflection, discussion, and as a call to action.
But the prose is clunky and riddled with clichés—this is the part that makes it hard for me to rate with stars.
There are occasional historical flashbacks and even some magical realism—the Old Testament part of this story; readers might feel like this is a pretty random unless they understand the allegory. I wish the author had held back here a bit, but I see why he included it.
Henson’s father has a role for him to fulfill, which I won’t give away, but it was force-fit into the story to push the savior metaphor. This felt so annoyingly obvious to me; often I think middle grade authors are too direct with their symbolism, but maybe this is what readers need? I have a feeling many adult readers missed all of this despite abundant biblical allusions. (This is why the Bible belongs in English classrooms along with mythology and Shakespeare!)
Overall, there are flaws, but definitely worth reading!
October 12, 2025
I went back and forth on how to rate this book. There’s a powerful message here and a lot worth talking about, especially around expectations, identity, and the way society treats gifted kids (and particularly Black boys) as symbols before they’re even allowed to just be kids. But something about the storytelling didn’t quite click for me.
For most of the book, it reads like a straightforward coming of age or sports fiction story. Then suddenly there’s magical realism with almost no lead up. I actually like magical realism when it’s done well, but this shift felt out of nowhere and made the story feel a little disjointed. I could tell what the author was aiming for with it. He seemed to be using surreal moments to highlight Henson’s inner pressure and emotional unraveling, but it needed more prep work earlier on.
Henson himself is a strong character. He’s thirteen, a star athlete, and already being treated as the “savior” of the high school team before he even starts. He’s portrayed as really mature, but not in a way that feels earned. There’s no major backstory or event that explains why he’s so grown up for his age, and that disconnect pulled me out of the story a few times.
There’s still a lot this book does right. It captures how heavy it can be to carry other people’s expectations, and how easy it is to lose sight of yourself under all that pressure. It brings to the light the reality of police brutality against black people, even the youth, and how it's often swept under the rug. It’s definitely a conversation starter and one I’d still recommend for classroom discussions or book clubs.
Overall, The Incredibly Human Henson Blaze has a great concept and heart, but the execution felt uneven. I’m glad I read it, but it just didn’t hit as hard as it could have.
Thank you to Netgalley for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
For most of the book, it reads like a straightforward coming of age or sports fiction story. Then suddenly there’s magical realism with almost no lead up. I actually like magical realism when it’s done well, but this shift felt out of nowhere and made the story feel a little disjointed. I could tell what the author was aiming for with it. He seemed to be using surreal moments to highlight Henson’s inner pressure and emotional unraveling, but it needed more prep work earlier on.
Henson himself is a strong character. He’s thirteen, a star athlete, and already being treated as the “savior” of the high school team before he even starts. He’s portrayed as really mature, but not in a way that feels earned. There’s no major backstory or event that explains why he’s so grown up for his age, and that disconnect pulled me out of the story a few times.
There’s still a lot this book does right. It captures how heavy it can be to carry other people’s expectations, and how easy it is to lose sight of yourself under all that pressure. It brings to the light the reality of police brutality against black people, even the youth, and how it's often swept under the rug. It’s definitely a conversation starter and one I’d still recommend for classroom discussions or book clubs.
Overall, The Incredibly Human Henson Blaze has a great concept and heart, but the execution felt uneven. I’m glad I read it, but it just didn’t hit as hard as it could have.
Thank you to Netgalley for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
July 15, 2025
Henson Blayze is a 13–year-old teen entering 8th grade. He’s looking forward to the new school year, playing football, and seeing Freida St. Louis, the girl he’s had a crush on for years. The small, mostly-white town of Great Mountain, Mississippi see Henson as their star, savior, and ticket to a varsity football championship. They make shirts, give him special privileges and food, and he even has an agent, a friend named Flowell. Some of the Black people in town warn Henson that most people don’t see him for who he really is, and to be careful. Henson brushes that off, especially after the beginning of his first game, where he helps his team score over 30 points as the starting safety. At halftime, however, he learned that his close friend, 10-year-old Menkah Jupiter, was beaten within inches of his life by two white police officers. Henson goes to him, which infuriates most of the townspeople, who want their superstar back on the field. Their adoration for him turns to fury, and Henson must soon decide if football is more important than supporting Menkah. The more Henson learns from his father, a local vineyard owner, and Freida, the more he realizes what he must do.
Henson Blayze is what makes this story a must read! The light in which he sees others, to a fault, makes him naïve yet noble. His superhero-like abilities make him loved and adored by his fans, but one decision changes him into other famous athletes that sought justice like Colin Kaepernick. Readers will realize Henson should still be loved, even when his community turns against him. I loved the tall tale-like stories woven within, as well as the history of the Blayze family and Great Mountain. Another epic read by Derrick Barnes!
Henson Blayze is what makes this story a must read! The light in which he sees others, to a fault, makes him naïve yet noble. His superhero-like abilities make him loved and adored by his fans, but one decision changes him into other famous athletes that sought justice like Colin Kaepernick. Readers will realize Henson should still be loved, even when his community turns against him. I loved the tall tale-like stories woven within, as well as the history of the Blayze family and Great Mountain. Another epic read by Derrick Barnes!
November 20, 2025
“Just remember what I said. Everybody that claims they’re for you, ain’t really for you.”—Freida St.Louis
I’ll honestly say I was floored by this book. I have read a good amount of YA and middle grade books dealing with a few or all of the subjects in “Henson Blayze,” but none are like this one. From the get-go, the audience understands this book is more than a “football book” and more than a “coming of age story.” It is both of those. It’s also the story of a brutal police beating and the story of how one town reacts to it. All of that is there. It’s in the summary. But there’s more to it.
Barnes weaves a tale around Henson and his town that one won’t easily forget. The first scene is like ones we all-too-often see on the news. Then, Barnes has the presence of mind to bring us back to three days before that incident and introduce the key players: Henson Blayze, his father, Deacon, and his neighbor. All three will play a role in what lies ahead. He tells us of Henson’s football dreams and shows us the relationship he has with his neighbor, Menkah. Deacon Blayze, master storyteller, shows us the importance of remembering your roots. As Henson dreams about football, he quietly keeps his son grounded.
And we as the audience know a secret that the three characters do not, so there is a sense of foreboding as Henson, a trusting, compassionate kid, heads off to school as the youngest Black football player on the high school team. The town showers him with praise everywhere he goes. He is even gifted with special food at lunch and allowed to eat with his best friend in a special chair. The town thinks Henson will be their star. They make t-shirts and signs saying they love him.
Only thirteen, Henson is a little perturbed by their behavior and is warned more than once to remember who he is in the midst of the noise. This is especially evident with his interactions with a classmate named Freida and a few others in town. As Henson is enjoying his glory on the football field, we sense the things that happened in the prologue about to come to a head. This excitement about football and performing for the town is making Henson so happy. It’s all the more devastating when he figures out the ugliness under all that fun. It’ll make us think long and hard about the way we treat everyone in our neighborhoods and what we can do to make the world better. Just who will we be when faced with a terrible cruelty? Also, what should fans expect from athletes, actors and singers? It’s clear we put them on a pedestal. But, when Henson disagrees with people in town, how does everyone show their feelings? What do their actions show us about ourselves?
This is a book that should start many conversations about racism and police brutality. Those are important. But just as important are the conversations about athletes and others who perform for us. The three subjects are often intertwined. We put athletes like Henson on a pedestal. We pour our own hopes and dreams into them, often forgetting they are human because of their abilities. Barnes shows us that indeed, Henson Blayze is a human being in need of our love and care. And we would do well to remember that lesson.
Beautiful book. Thank you for this book.
#MockNewbery2026 #WeNeedDiverseBooks
Mia’s 2nd Year of Books: Days 252-254
October 29, 2025
Whew. This book is just crying out for a teacher brave, and skilled, enough to tackle it with a class. There’s rampant racism, magical realism, reflections of present-day insanity and also first love, the wise care of the Black community and deep family ties.
October 13, 2025
Actually six stars. This one is a winner. I'll even say it's a Newbery contender. Read it!!
October 11, 2025
Very John Henry-style parable. Quite heavy-handed.
October 1, 2025
I loved the relationships between Henson and his father and his friends. And the theme of Black people in entertainment industries and how they are commodified is an important one. The story could have been better if there were more nuance to the characters. Painting every white person in the town with the same extreme racist brush was jarring. I think Barnes was going for a tall tale vibe, but it became more of a caricature.
Thanks to Libro.fm and Penguin Random House for the complimentary e-audiobook.
Thanks to Libro.fm and Penguin Random House for the complimentary e-audiobook.
March 14, 2025
“You have to decide who you are and force the world to deal with you, not with its idea of you.” James Baldwin
👦🏾
Great Mountain, Mississippi, a predominantly white community, loves two things right now: football and Henson Blayze. Henson is a football phenom who has been waiting to play football for years. Now she’s a freshman and is placed on varsity. He has crowds of fans wherever he goes, but when his best friend brutally assaulted by police officers, Henson leaves the game to be by his hospital bed. This enrages the town and now those fans of his become enemies as Henson goes from beloved star to ostracized leper. Everyone is telling Henson to come back to football to play…or else. He must decide what’s best for his family, friends, community and, ultimately, himself.
🏈
I’ve read a good amount of MG, YA and adult books about race, particularly in regards to the Black community, over the last several years, but this is a story that has not been told yet. Spanning the 1800s to today it shows what has changed about America and racism and, mostly, what hasn’t. This novel made me think about how we treat Black people in our country as forms of entertainment, labor and as representations rather than real people. I hope everyone reads this masterpiece by @authorderrickdbarnes when it releases 9/23!
CW: racism, microaggressions, theft, violence, hospitalization, medical content, death, lynching, police brutality, classism
👦🏾
Great Mountain, Mississippi, a predominantly white community, loves two things right now: football and Henson Blayze. Henson is a football phenom who has been waiting to play football for years. Now she’s a freshman and is placed on varsity. He has crowds of fans wherever he goes, but when his best friend brutally assaulted by police officers, Henson leaves the game to be by his hospital bed. This enrages the town and now those fans of his become enemies as Henson goes from beloved star to ostracized leper. Everyone is telling Henson to come back to football to play…or else. He must decide what’s best for his family, friends, community and, ultimately, himself.
🏈
I’ve read a good amount of MG, YA and adult books about race, particularly in regards to the Black community, over the last several years, but this is a story that has not been told yet. Spanning the 1800s to today it shows what has changed about America and racism and, mostly, what hasn’t. This novel made me think about how we treat Black people in our country as forms of entertainment, labor and as representations rather than real people. I hope everyone reads this masterpiece by @authorderrickdbarnes when it releases 9/23!
CW: racism, microaggressions, theft, violence, hospitalization, medical content, death, lynching, police brutality, classism
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September 22, 2025Derrick Barnes’s new middle-grade novel The Incredibly Human Henson Blayze asks why Black entertainers in sports and music are celebrated when they perform on stage and field but condemned when they express opinions or claim agency unrelated to their fields of excellence.
Henson Blayze is an eighth-grade football prodigy playing on the varsity team for Green Mountain, Mississippi. As the season’s first game approaches, Henson is showered with praise and perks galore. During the game, Henson learns that his friend has been beaten by police officers. Because Henson is so popular, he is sure that the Green Mountain fans will understand that he needs to leave the game at half-time to see his friend in the hospital. After all, his team is leading, 56-3. When Henson takes the microphone to explain the situation to the crowd, Henson is met with … well, you’ll see.
Woven through Henson’s story are other stories related by his father. These involve community and family lore that are thematically similar to Henson’s situation. These riveting stories, as well as Henson’s, include touches of magical realism. No spoilers here, but the jaw-dropping ending and touching epilogue will leave readers astonished and inspired. Young readers looking for football action will find it in The Incredibly Human Henson Blayze, along with gripping history and social justice lessons.
Thanks to Penguin School & Library and Libro.fm for early access to this title.
Henson Blayze is an eighth-grade football prodigy playing on the varsity team for Green Mountain, Mississippi. As the season’s first game approaches, Henson is showered with praise and perks galore. During the game, Henson learns that his friend has been beaten by police officers. Because Henson is so popular, he is sure that the Green Mountain fans will understand that he needs to leave the game at half-time to see his friend in the hospital. After all, his team is leading, 56-3. When Henson takes the microphone to explain the situation to the crowd, Henson is met with … well, you’ll see.
Woven through Henson’s story are other stories related by his father. These involve community and family lore that are thematically similar to Henson’s situation. These riveting stories, as well as Henson’s, include touches of magical realism. No spoilers here, but the jaw-dropping ending and touching epilogue will leave readers astonished and inspired. Young readers looking for football action will find it in The Incredibly Human Henson Blayze, along with gripping history and social justice lessons.
Thanks to Penguin School & Library and Libro.fm for early access to this title.
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October 19, 2025Life seems like it is all about football for 8th grader Henson Blayze. His amazing talent on the field is known by everyone, and everyone is looking forward to him starting on the high school team for the first game of the season. Everyone is expecting him to take the team to victory.
At home Henson knows that football isn't the most important thing. His family owns and operates a vineyard that has been in the family for many years. As a black family, it is unusual for them to own such a profitable enterprise. Henson is proud of his father and the history of their land, but he doesn't truly comprehend all that it entails. Events will soon unfold that will have Henson learning just how important his family inheritance is to the lives of many people.
Problems in the football part of Henson's life begin when a close friend of his becomes a victim of bullying. It happens the night of the first football game, and when Henson learns how badly his young friend is hurt, he makes a decision that has many in the town furious. Henson leaves the game at halftime to go to the aid of his friend. When he doesn't return to play, he feels the hatred of the white townspeople for the first time in his life.
Author Derrick Barnes shows readers how justice works in favor of some and against others. Fairness isn't always considered when judgements are made. Barnes illustrates how decisions are difficult and not at all easy to make.
At home Henson knows that football isn't the most important thing. His family owns and operates a vineyard that has been in the family for many years. As a black family, it is unusual for them to own such a profitable enterprise. Henson is proud of his father and the history of their land, but he doesn't truly comprehend all that it entails. Events will soon unfold that will have Henson learning just how important his family inheritance is to the lives of many people.
Problems in the football part of Henson's life begin when a close friend of his becomes a victim of bullying. It happens the night of the first football game, and when Henson learns how badly his young friend is hurt, he makes a decision that has many in the town furious. Henson leaves the game at halftime to go to the aid of his friend. When he doesn't return to play, he feels the hatred of the white townspeople for the first time in his life.
Author Derrick Barnes shows readers how justice works in favor of some and against others. Fairness isn't always considered when judgements are made. Barnes illustrates how decisions are difficult and not at all easy to make.
July 28, 2025
Thanks to Viking and Penguin Random House for sending me an advance copy.
This is a powerful book about injustice, being true to yourself, and a calling out of the way we have devalued Black existence. What spoke to me the most was how through the use of seemingly superhuman or magical powers, the story is able to so clearly speak the truth about how Black people have been diminished and commodified.
There is a tall tale quality to the story of Great Mountain, its people, and Henson Blayze himself. And yet somehow, it is exactly that exaggerated aspect of storytelling that brings the truth into focus—that the views and actions of the townsfolk are not so exaggerated after all.
Henson is in fact both exceptional and incredibly human, and I loved the messaging that it is those two aspects that make Henson, and all of us, worthy of value and love.
This is a powerful book about injustice, being true to yourself, and a calling out of the way we have devalued Black existence. What spoke to me the most was how through the use of seemingly superhuman or magical powers, the story is able to so clearly speak the truth about how Black people have been diminished and commodified.
There is a tall tale quality to the story of Great Mountain, its people, and Henson Blayze himself. And yet somehow, it is exactly that exaggerated aspect of storytelling that brings the truth into focus—that the views and actions of the townsfolk are not so exaggerated after all.
Henson is in fact both exceptional and incredibly human, and I loved the messaging that it is those two aspects that make Henson, and all of us, worthy of value and love.
November 5, 2025
I really enjoyed the story and think it is perfectly written for our young adults who are being cajoled by audiences because of their skills and talents.
We live in a very strange world right now, and people are showing their colors. I appreciate the strength of the father son relationship, and Henson’s untapped superpowers. I also love how the most powerful students in the town-based upon their families historical victories, albeit very different in their approach to social justice, just connected organically.
We live in a very strange world right now, and people are showing their colors. I appreciate the strength of the father son relationship, and Henson’s untapped superpowers. I also love how the most powerful students in the town-based upon their families historical victories, albeit very different in their approach to social justice, just connected organically.
September 23, 2025
Wow. And this is really what y'all sound like and expect us to be like. Real review to come to my blog.
September 27, 2025
This is a 2025 favorite!
November 26, 2025
Letting this one marinate in my brain for a while. I had been expecting pure contemporary fiction, and didn't realise that there would be magical or allegorical elements. 4.5 stars.
November 30, 2025
everyone needs to read a book depicting kids that are good. this book had a nice way of balancing the heavy, important events, with the joy of kids being genuine and good. highly recommend.
November 2, 2025
4.5 rounded up
October 18, 2025
Richie’s Picks: THE INCREDIBLY HUMAN HENSON BLAYZE by Derrick Barnes, Penguin Random House/Viking, September 2025, 272p., ISBN: 978-1-9848-3675-5
“Alabama's gotten me so upset
Tennessee made me lose my rest
And everybody knows about Mississippi, goddamn”
– Nina Simone (1964)
"Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee. His hands can't hit what his eyes can't see. Now you see me, now you don't. George thinks he will, but I know he won't."
The American public adored the clever putdown verses Muhammad Ali recited about his various boxing opponents. It was seen as great entertainment. And he sure did perform in the ring. But when he stopped being a sports hero and spoke seriously, white America came down on him like a ton of bricks:
“Why should they ask me to put on a uniform and go 10,000 miles from home and drop bombs and bullets on Brown people in Vietnam while so-called Negro people in Louisville are treated like dogs and denied simple human rights? No I’m not going 10,000 miles from home to help murder and burn another poor nation simply to continue the domination of white slave masters of the darker people the world over. This is the day when such evils must come to an end. I have been warned that to take such a stand would cost me millions of dollars. But I have said it once and I will say it again. The real enemy of my people is here. I will not disgrace my religion, my people or myself by becoming a tool to enslave those who are fighting for their own justice, freedom and equality. If I thought the war was going to bring freedom and equality to 22 million of my people they wouldn’t have to draft me, I’d join tomorrow. I have nothing to lose by standing up for my beliefs. So I’ll go to jail, so what? We’ve been in jail for 400 years.”
– Muhammad Ali (1967)
THE INCREDIBLY HUMAN HENSON BLAYZE is a dark, powerful, ground-breaking, sometimes fantastical tale that explores the significant disconnect/deep gulf between how Black sports stars, musicians, and other Black entertainers are worshiped when they are on the field/stage/screen, and how the average Black American (or Black star out of uniform) still faces racial prejudice and contempt from white America simply because of his or her skin color. Especially when he or she opens their mouth.
“‘Mm-hm…’ Mrs. Pendergrass looked him up and down. ‘So, tell me, why are all of these white folk being so nice, going so crazy over you this year? Can’t be just because of no dern football, is it?’ she snipped with a confused look on her face. ‘ I mean…they done lost their minds.’
‘I guess so. They’re just excited about the season. I am too…aren’t you?’ asked Henson after he bit the tips off of two asparagus stalks.
‘Chiiiiiile..I can take it or leave it.’ She quietly chuckled. ‘I used to change your Pampers. Put baby powder on your little brown butt.’
Henson chuckled softly right along with her. ‘I’ll just go sit down and eat before lunch is over, he said.
‘Yeah, you gon’ ahead…but let me tell you something first,’ she said. Then she latched his elbow and leaned into him really close. ‘Watch yourself, Henson. Ya hear? When they start acting like this–and I done seen it before–it never ends well. Just protect yourself, baby.’”
Henson Blayze is an eighth-grader in the small town of Great Mountain, Mississippi. The son of the latest in a long line of preacher-farmers from Great Mountain, Henson's football skills are legendary. When the story begins, at the beginning of the new school year, he’s just days away from starting and starring on the high school football team. The whole town has been salivating over this upcoming season. It is hysterical how the white townsfolk go to comedic lengths to treat him like a god.
But this is a story that was inspired by the 2014 police murder of Tamir Rice. At the end of the first half of his first varsity game–after having piled up a 56-3 lead–Henson learns that his beloved little buddy Menkah–really a little brother figure–has sustained life-threatening injuries, Henson chooses to leave the game and the stadium and go care for Menkah. This, without even knowing the facts that we readers are privy to: Menkah was in the hospital, near to death, because white cops have beaten the crap out of him.
Day by day, as Henson considers whether or not to play again, he is supported by the young female activist he’s adored since they were in elementary school. In the process, THE INCREDIBLY HUMAN HENSON BLAYZE rips off the scabs from those 400 years of Black subjugation and abuse. It is one WOW of a read, a life-altering tale that will impact tween and teen readers of all colors and persuasions.
Don’t miss it!
Richie Partington, MLIS
Richie's Picks http://richiespicks.pbworks.com
https://www.facebook.com/richiespicks/
richiepartington@gmail.com
“Alabama's gotten me so upset
Tennessee made me lose my rest
And everybody knows about Mississippi, goddamn”
– Nina Simone (1964)
"Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee. His hands can't hit what his eyes can't see. Now you see me, now you don't. George thinks he will, but I know he won't."
The American public adored the clever putdown verses Muhammad Ali recited about his various boxing opponents. It was seen as great entertainment. And he sure did perform in the ring. But when he stopped being a sports hero and spoke seriously, white America came down on him like a ton of bricks:
“Why should they ask me to put on a uniform and go 10,000 miles from home and drop bombs and bullets on Brown people in Vietnam while so-called Negro people in Louisville are treated like dogs and denied simple human rights? No I’m not going 10,000 miles from home to help murder and burn another poor nation simply to continue the domination of white slave masters of the darker people the world over. This is the day when such evils must come to an end. I have been warned that to take such a stand would cost me millions of dollars. But I have said it once and I will say it again. The real enemy of my people is here. I will not disgrace my religion, my people or myself by becoming a tool to enslave those who are fighting for their own justice, freedom and equality. If I thought the war was going to bring freedom and equality to 22 million of my people they wouldn’t have to draft me, I’d join tomorrow. I have nothing to lose by standing up for my beliefs. So I’ll go to jail, so what? We’ve been in jail for 400 years.”
– Muhammad Ali (1967)
THE INCREDIBLY HUMAN HENSON BLAYZE is a dark, powerful, ground-breaking, sometimes fantastical tale that explores the significant disconnect/deep gulf between how Black sports stars, musicians, and other Black entertainers are worshiped when they are on the field/stage/screen, and how the average Black American (or Black star out of uniform) still faces racial prejudice and contempt from white America simply because of his or her skin color. Especially when he or she opens their mouth.
“‘Mm-hm…’ Mrs. Pendergrass looked him up and down. ‘So, tell me, why are all of these white folk being so nice, going so crazy over you this year? Can’t be just because of no dern football, is it?’ she snipped with a confused look on her face. ‘ I mean…they done lost their minds.’
‘I guess so. They’re just excited about the season. I am too…aren’t you?’ asked Henson after he bit the tips off of two asparagus stalks.
‘Chiiiiiile..I can take it or leave it.’ She quietly chuckled. ‘I used to change your Pampers. Put baby powder on your little brown butt.’
Henson chuckled softly right along with her. ‘I’ll just go sit down and eat before lunch is over, he said.
‘Yeah, you gon’ ahead…but let me tell you something first,’ she said. Then she latched his elbow and leaned into him really close. ‘Watch yourself, Henson. Ya hear? When they start acting like this–and I done seen it before–it never ends well. Just protect yourself, baby.’”
Henson Blayze is an eighth-grader in the small town of Great Mountain, Mississippi. The son of the latest in a long line of preacher-farmers from Great Mountain, Henson's football skills are legendary. When the story begins, at the beginning of the new school year, he’s just days away from starting and starring on the high school football team. The whole town has been salivating over this upcoming season. It is hysterical how the white townsfolk go to comedic lengths to treat him like a god.
But this is a story that was inspired by the 2014 police murder of Tamir Rice. At the end of the first half of his first varsity game–after having piled up a 56-3 lead–Henson learns that his beloved little buddy Menkah–really a little brother figure–has sustained life-threatening injuries, Henson chooses to leave the game and the stadium and go care for Menkah. This, without even knowing the facts that we readers are privy to: Menkah was in the hospital, near to death, because white cops have beaten the crap out of him.
Day by day, as Henson considers whether or not to play again, he is supported by the young female activist he’s adored since they were in elementary school. In the process, THE INCREDIBLY HUMAN HENSON BLAYZE rips off the scabs from those 400 years of Black subjugation and abuse. It is one WOW of a read, a life-altering tale that will impact tween and teen readers of all colors and persuasions.
Don’t miss it!
Richie Partington, MLIS
Richie's Picks http://richiespicks.pbworks.com
https://www.facebook.com/richiespicks/
richiepartington@gmail.com
May 10, 2025
E ARC provided by Edelweiss Plus
Henson lives with his father, Deacon, in Great Mountain, Mississippi after the death of his mother. They have property, and grow grapes, so Henson is expected to pitch in with the work, even though he is a promising 8th grader who is playing on the high school football team. Menkah Jupiter, a younger boy whose father was killed in the military, works for Deacon as well. The father often tells the boys stories about Great Mountain's past, and the history of the formerly enslaved Black people who founded the town. The community is so invested in Henson's performance on the football field that when school starts, Henson gets a lot of breaks. The principal doesn't mind that he's late, and the cafeteria workers bring in steak for his lunch. Henson even attracts the attention of Frieda, an young activist in his grade on whom he has a crush. His friend Flowell supports him, since Henson stood up to the bully Punch for him years earlier. There are some problems in Great Mountain, and some controversy over the Midnight Marauders. Even though the town was settled by Augustus Owens, a Nigerian man who was enslaved by European traders, once white people found out about the town, they took land away from the native Choctaw tribe members. Now, there is an angry group called the Dem Delta Boys who use ugly and racist props and gestures to cheer for the Marauders team. During the first game, Henson is doing very well, and the public adores him. Halfway through, however, he gets news that Menkah has been beated by local law enforcement, and he leaves the game to be by his friend's side. This angers a few people in town, who demand that Henson return to the field. After visiting with Henson, Menkah makes a miraculous recovery, but the hospital is surrounded by sports fans who want Henson to return to the field. When Dem Delta Boys threaten them, help arrives in the OBF organization. The One Big Family is led by Shaka St. Louis and comprised of Black people who come to the aid of anyone who needs them. Henson is able to go home and have a quiet weekend with his father, having Frieda to dinner and learning that his father is in charge of a philanthropic foundation that gives away money to Black people and organizations who need it. Before the next game, there is a pep rally, that goes awry. Is Henson's athletic prowess something more supernatural than it seems at first?
Strengths: Great Mountain is an interesting town with a fascinating history that Deacon imparts little by little to Henson and his friends. While the team name and Dem Delta Boys are problematic, the general atmosphere is one of Black pride and accomplishment. The townspeople are very supportive of Henson; during the game that he has to leave, it is stated that 7,991 people support his decision, and the nine people who don't all meet with very bad events. The relationship between Deacon and his father is wonderful, and the two obviously care deeply for one another. Henson also has other people in his life who support him. This is definitely a fantasy book, and Henson clearly has some powers that help with his performance on the football field. Football helps to sell any story; I just wish this had a football on the cover!
Weaknesses: While I loved how generally positive the stories, and the treatment of Henson, generally is, I was very confused as to where the book was going. The fantasy elements were there, but it was hard to take Henson's ability to heal seriously when it was followed by hoards of fans massing outside the hospital. I felt like I was missing some sub text about how we idolize sports figures.
What I really think: Wilson's The Boys of Blur is the only other book I can think of that is anything like this. It's an interesting mix of Black history and magical realism, with a strong feeling of wish fulfillment. (Don't a lot of readers want to be this lauded as sports heroes?)
Henson lives with his father, Deacon, in Great Mountain, Mississippi after the death of his mother. They have property, and grow grapes, so Henson is expected to pitch in with the work, even though he is a promising 8th grader who is playing on the high school football team. Menkah Jupiter, a younger boy whose father was killed in the military, works for Deacon as well. The father often tells the boys stories about Great Mountain's past, and the history of the formerly enslaved Black people who founded the town. The community is so invested in Henson's performance on the football field that when school starts, Henson gets a lot of breaks. The principal doesn't mind that he's late, and the cafeteria workers bring in steak for his lunch. Henson even attracts the attention of Frieda, an young activist in his grade on whom he has a crush. His friend Flowell supports him, since Henson stood up to the bully Punch for him years earlier. There are some problems in Great Mountain, and some controversy over the Midnight Marauders. Even though the town was settled by Augustus Owens, a Nigerian man who was enslaved by European traders, once white people found out about the town, they took land away from the native Choctaw tribe members. Now, there is an angry group called the Dem Delta Boys who use ugly and racist props and gestures to cheer for the Marauders team. During the first game, Henson is doing very well, and the public adores him. Halfway through, however, he gets news that Menkah has been beated by local law enforcement, and he leaves the game to be by his friend's side. This angers a few people in town, who demand that Henson return to the field. After visiting with Henson, Menkah makes a miraculous recovery, but the hospital is surrounded by sports fans who want Henson to return to the field. When Dem Delta Boys threaten them, help arrives in the OBF organization. The One Big Family is led by Shaka St. Louis and comprised of Black people who come to the aid of anyone who needs them. Henson is able to go home and have a quiet weekend with his father, having Frieda to dinner and learning that his father is in charge of a philanthropic foundation that gives away money to Black people and organizations who need it. Before the next game, there is a pep rally, that goes awry. Is Henson's athletic prowess something more supernatural than it seems at first?
Strengths: Great Mountain is an interesting town with a fascinating history that Deacon imparts little by little to Henson and his friends. While the team name and Dem Delta Boys are problematic, the general atmosphere is one of Black pride and accomplishment. The townspeople are very supportive of Henson; during the game that he has to leave, it is stated that 7,991 people support his decision, and the nine people who don't all meet with very bad events. The relationship between Deacon and his father is wonderful, and the two obviously care deeply for one another. Henson also has other people in his life who support him. This is definitely a fantasy book, and Henson clearly has some powers that help with his performance on the football field. Football helps to sell any story; I just wish this had a football on the cover!
Weaknesses: While I loved how generally positive the stories, and the treatment of Henson, generally is, I was very confused as to where the book was going. The fantasy elements were there, but it was hard to take Henson's ability to heal seriously when it was followed by hoards of fans massing outside the hospital. I felt like I was missing some sub text about how we idolize sports figures.
What I really think: Wilson's The Boys of Blur is the only other book I can think of that is anything like this. It's an interesting mix of Black history and magical realism, with a strong feeling of wish fulfillment. (Don't a lot of readers want to be this lauded as sports heroes?)
September 29, 2025
The small town of Great Mountain, Mississippi, has never had a superstar-level football player--until now. Even though Henson is only going into 8th grade, he will be playing on the high school team, and everyone expects him to win the season for them. Everyone in town is going nuts over him, with posters, free food, cheers, and basically all the love he could ever want. His best friend Floel (sp?) has declared himself Henson's agent, and is setting up sponsorships all over town. And Henson is lapping it up. He knows that football will be his way out of Great Mountain, and into the life he really wants--being a world-famous filmmaker who retires to the south of France. There are a few people in town, though, who aren't impressed with Henson's insta-fame. One is his father, who has tended the family land like his father before him, and on back, the Blayzes never having been enslaved. Henson doesn't want that life, though his father says it's his duty. His father--and other Black people in town--warn Henson about the fickle nature of sports fame, especially when white folks are cheering Black athletes. And when something horrific happens to a young Black boy who is Henson's friend, Henson finds out who his true friends are.
Because there's a somewhat supernatural element to this, it feels like an American folktale (like John Henry), or a modern superhero origin-story. It's super-honest about the rise and fall of a Black athlete in the eyes of the mostly-white town, and will bring up a lot of good talking points. I liked that the author also brought in the other racism associated with the team, towards the local Choctaw people. The main characters are distinctive and memorable, though I'll admit a lot of the townsfolk and members of the team aren't differentiated in my mind beyond that a few members of the team did stand behind Henson. I thought Floel was a really interesting character, because Henson essentially saved him from the scrap heap of school popularity, but then he turned around and exploited Henson's short-lived fame for all it was worth before turning against him. I liked the strong girl in Henson's life (Frida?). There's Newbery buzz about this one, and I can see why. Thanks to Libro.FM for a free educator copy of the audiobook.
Because there's a somewhat supernatural element to this, it feels like an American folktale (like John Henry), or a modern superhero origin-story. It's super-honest about the rise and fall of a Black athlete in the eyes of the mostly-white town, and will bring up a lot of good talking points. I liked that the author also brought in the other racism associated with the team, towards the local Choctaw people. The main characters are distinctive and memorable, though I'll admit a lot of the townsfolk and members of the team aren't differentiated in my mind beyond that a few members of the team did stand behind Henson. I thought Floel was a really interesting character, because Henson essentially saved him from the scrap heap of school popularity, but then he turned around and exploited Henson's short-lived fame for all it was worth before turning against him. I liked the strong girl in Henson's life (Frida?). There's Newbery buzz about this one, and I can see why. Thanks to Libro.FM for a free educator copy of the audiobook.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 27, 2025
As great literature always does, this thought-provoking novel gave me a peek into a world I've never given very much thought. Until now. Even before the novel began, the author's note at the beginning drew me in immediately. Here are some highlights: "With Henson Blayze, as with all my characters, I attempt to take back, increase, and hold up the value of Black children for the world to see. We care about our babies. I wanted to create a character who had power, the agency, and the protection to carve out the kind of life that he wants, without fear of harm. . . . I beg all of you, especially my non-Black readers, to be open-minded and challenge yourselves to read as much as you can about the uncomfortable parts of American history. That knowledge will not embarrass you or make you culpable for the wrongs committed in the past. Instead, it will teach empathy, and cause you to see others as yourself. It will arm you with the tools to work closely with people you may not know anything about, who you should not fear, and it will place you in unison with ethnic groups who have been historically marginalized." Speaking to his young Black readers, he writes, "You must . . . become well-read and as educated as you possibly can. Demand respect. Be your most human self, and work on improving yourself every single day. Be kind, and most importantly, be a difference-maker. Be dead set on making this world a better place--not just for yourself or only for people who look like you, speak your language, or worship your religion, but for all of us.
"We exist solely to help each other. It's that simple."
With sparkling elements of magical realism alongside the stark realities Henson Blayze faces, this novel absolutely soars.
"We exist solely to help each other. It's that simple."
With sparkling elements of magical realism alongside the stark realities Henson Blayze faces, this novel absolutely soars.
December 8, 2025
This was a powerful read from Derrick Barnes, and one that I believe will be a real contender for the major awards early in 2026.
What I was impressed by:
- The ambitious nature of the plot: Barnes tries to tie together a number of subplots, themes, and generations of characters into one story, and I felt that each of those individual elements was quite strong on its own.
- Henson Blayze, his family, and his immediate community are so lovable that you can't help but root for them the entire time.
- From a curricular standpoint, I think this is a book that is worthwhile introducing to middle grade readers. There are so many opportunities for connections and points of entry into heavier topics: historical social justice, contemporary social justice, restorative justice, magical realism, to name a few.
What didn't quite work for me:
- As I mentioned above, the progression of the plot was quite ambitious, and I'm not sure it quite landed. It felt, to me, like the book was divided into three distinct sections, and while each individual section was strong on its own, they felt a little disjointed when placed side by side. I think with a little bit of editing, and possibly some re-ordering of the chapters, this book could have been truly exceptional.
Thank you to NetGalley and Penguin Young Readers/Viking Books for Young Readers for my advanced copy.
What I was impressed by:
- The ambitious nature of the plot: Barnes tries to tie together a number of subplots, themes, and generations of characters into one story, and I felt that each of those individual elements was quite strong on its own.
- Henson Blayze, his family, and his immediate community are so lovable that you can't help but root for them the entire time.
- From a curricular standpoint, I think this is a book that is worthwhile introducing to middle grade readers. There are so many opportunities for connections and points of entry into heavier topics: historical social justice, contemporary social justice, restorative justice, magical realism, to name a few.
What didn't quite work for me:
- As I mentioned above, the progression of the plot was quite ambitious, and I'm not sure it quite landed. It felt, to me, like the book was divided into three distinct sections, and while each individual section was strong on its own, they felt a little disjointed when placed side by side. I think with a little bit of editing, and possibly some re-ordering of the chapters, this book could have been truly exceptional.
Thank you to NetGalley and Penguin Young Readers/Viking Books for Young Readers for my advanced copy.
December 23, 2025
3.5 stars rounded up to 4 for GR
This is a strange one for me and idk how to feel about it. I read it for Mock Newbery. The main character is a football player who is so amazing that he’s starting games as an 8th grader. He’s already basically guaranteed to go pro. But after his buddy gets brutalized by the police, Henson leaves a game early and finds the town only loves him so long as he performs for them.
I understand the author is trying to get his point across to younger readers, so there’s less nuance for them than an older reader. I think the book is too short for this and would’ve benefitted from a little longer narrative time than essentially a weekend. Henson has ancestral-tied powers that make the book work like a tall tale. He’s a middle grade version of John Henry, basically. Some of it is a little…far-fetched and just hand-waved away (healing Menkah, for example). The incident with his friend is kind of used like a plot device to get Henson to learn a lesson without having to be the direct victim of police brutality. Wasn’t a super huge fan of that. I also think some of the town’s reactions are a little cartoonish.
Overall, I think the point being made is necessary, but I think the execution is maybe a bit over the top.
This is a strange one for me and idk how to feel about it. I read it for Mock Newbery. The main character is a football player who is so amazing that he’s starting games as an 8th grader. He’s already basically guaranteed to go pro. But after his buddy gets brutalized by the police, Henson leaves a game early and finds the town only loves him so long as he performs for them.
I understand the author is trying to get his point across to younger readers, so there’s less nuance for them than an older reader. I think the book is too short for this and would’ve benefitted from a little longer narrative time than essentially a weekend. Henson has ancestral-tied powers that make the book work like a tall tale. He’s a middle grade version of John Henry, basically. Some of it is a little…far-fetched and just hand-waved away (healing Menkah, for example). The incident with his friend is kind of used like a plot device to get Henson to learn a lesson without having to be the direct victim of police brutality. Wasn’t a super huge fan of that. I also think some of the town’s reactions are a little cartoonish.
Overall, I think the point being made is necessary, but I think the execution is maybe a bit over the top.
September 23, 2025
The Incredibly Human Henson Blayze
Derrick Barnes
Henson’s family has built up generational wealth from their vineyard outside a small southern town and eighth grader Henson knows that the vineyard is his future - but what if he wants to leverage his amazing athletic skills into a pro sports career? Henson’s family lives modestly and uses their resources to give direct aid to those in the community who need it and in turn they have been sheltered from most of the impacts of systemic racism so Henson develops an unfounded belief in the good will of his white neighbors who love him for his entertainment value. Barnes does incredible work with his narrative style, using the tropes of a tall tale to emphasize Henson’s good fortune and contrasting it with the brutal hate crime experienced by Menkah, a ten year old friend, at the hands of the police. Memorable and skillfully told. It’s one of those rare books that will appeal to readers who are older than the main character. EARC from Edelweiss.
Derrick Barnes
Henson’s family has built up generational wealth from their vineyard outside a small southern town and eighth grader Henson knows that the vineyard is his future - but what if he wants to leverage his amazing athletic skills into a pro sports career? Henson’s family lives modestly and uses their resources to give direct aid to those in the community who need it and in turn they have been sheltered from most of the impacts of systemic racism so Henson develops an unfounded belief in the good will of his white neighbors who love him for his entertainment value. Barnes does incredible work with his narrative style, using the tropes of a tall tale to emphasize Henson’s good fortune and contrasting it with the brutal hate crime experienced by Menkah, a ten year old friend, at the hands of the police. Memorable and skillfully told. It’s one of those rare books that will appeal to readers who are older than the main character. EARC from Edelweiss.
October 3, 2025
This YA novel is a finalist for the Kirkus Prize in Young Literature and a National Book Award Longlister for Young People’s Literature. In this story Henson Blayze is an amazing athlete and his entire town has high hopes for his domination in the coming school year. When racial-motivated senseless police violence lands his close friend in the hospital, Henson refuses to “perform” in favor of being at the bedside of the boy who’s like a brother to him. As Henson becomes more aware of the injustice of the assault and his family’s history, he becomes more resistant to return to sports, which turns all his fans and supporters against him in rather cruel ways. There’s a lot to talk about in this book. It’s very difficult subject matter at times but also very important for middle and high school readers to discuss. This book moved me and made me think critically from the author’s note in the very beginning to the powerful last pages. It’s a must read. I listened to the audiobook on Libby.
December 20, 2025
Henson is hailed as a hero by everyone as he walks through town on his way to school on the day of the first football game. All know that he has a special gift and are hoping their hometown high school will win big this year.
In the middle of the game, he gets word that his very best friend is in the hospital in bad shape. As Henson chooses to stop and go be with his friend, the crowd resents this and speaks against Henson. The town continues to resent his abandoning the first game and gather with physical threats. Henson isn't so certain he wants to continue to play the game with expectations like that.
Henson's father finally shows him what he does on his twice monthly drives around the county. It seems he is the administrator of a foundation begun years ago by their family to help those who need a hand.
Worth reading if only for the truisms that come through all the stories. Well done.
In the middle of the game, he gets word that his very best friend is in the hospital in bad shape. As Henson chooses to stop and go be with his friend, the crowd resents this and speaks against Henson. The town continues to resent his abandoning the first game and gather with physical threats. Henson isn't so certain he wants to continue to play the game with expectations like that.
Henson's father finally shows him what he does on his twice monthly drives around the county. It seems he is the administrator of a foundation begun years ago by their family to help those who need a hand.
Worth reading if only for the truisms that come through all the stories. Well done.
November 10, 2025
It has a message, the message is about the multitudes that people contain and Henson Blayze is that person that people think only has one beat-- that's to be the star of the football team. But Henson is more than just football and gets an opportunity to speak out about injustice when a friend is hurt by police-- but that voice ends up putting him at odds with the community who say that he's only this one thing.
So Henson has to decide for himself just what we is and what he stands for even when it's tough to speak out or to push outside of the box people place you in. It feels like a life lesson (a la A Monster Callsn mixed with the pulse of all social justice books for teens though Henson himself is thirteen.
So Henson has to decide for himself just what we is and what he stands for even when it's tough to speak out or to push outside of the box people place you in. It feels like a life lesson (a la A Monster Callsn mixed with the pulse of all social justice books for teens though Henson himself is thirteen.
December 29, 2025
I listened to The Incredibly Human Henson Blayze this week with Patti (@mamadaughterbookclub) for the #NewberyContenderChallenge while wrapping gifts. It was the perfect audiobook companion.
Henson Blayze is beloved in his small Mississippi hill town as a middle school football star. Football is everything—until an incident involving his friend shakes the community. Suddenly, the town is divided. Henson chooses to stand by his friend, and people are shocked that he would value friendship and his own beliefs over football glory.
This book is best suited for older middle grade readers and invites thoughtful reflection and discussion on issues we’ve been seeing in the news over the past several years. A meaningful read for book clubs, classrooms, or anyone who enjoys stories about courage and loyalty and kindness.
Henson Blayze is beloved in his small Mississippi hill town as a middle school football star. Football is everything—until an incident involving his friend shakes the community. Suddenly, the town is divided. Henson chooses to stand by his friend, and people are shocked that he would value friendship and his own beliefs over football glory.
This book is best suited for older middle grade readers and invites thoughtful reflection and discussion on issues we’ve been seeing in the news over the past several years. A meaningful read for book clubs, classrooms, or anyone who enjoys stories about courage and loyalty and kindness.
August 21, 2025
There are a lot of hard truths wrapped up in this multi-layered story. Henson is a football prodigy, cheered on by his predominately white town as he gets ready to start in his first varsity game. When his younger neighbor is attacked by the police, Henson leaves the game to the dismay and disgust of the fans. He is shocked by how quickly they turn on him. The same people cheering him on that morning are threatening him that evening. There is a lot to unpack here. Readers may draw parallels between the way Henson is treated and other Black athletes.The back story of Henson's family and the founding of the town add depth to an already rich story. Highly recommended for grades 5 & up.
eARC provided by publisher via NetGalley
eARC provided by publisher via NetGalley
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