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Air
When 17-year-old Grey witnesses the tragic death of his mother in Colorado, he is shipped off to live with his aunt in inner-city Baltimore. Grey struggles to fit in to his new school and environment until his new friend, Akil, introduces him to the enigmatic Kurtis, the leader of a group that uses high-octane sports as a form of social activism. By challenging the police with death-defying stunts and then posting videos of them online, Kurtis, Grey, and their group become unlikely heroes in the fight against the prejudice that surrounds them.
As Kurtis takes Grey under his wing, they come up with a name, an insignia and attract more and more followers to their extreme acts. The lines between social activism and criminal behavior blur and their escalating stunts become a rallying point for the underprivileged and disenfranchised around the country, spreading like wildfire across the Internet. How far will Grey and Kurtis go to push their message, and can their fragile alliance withstand their growing power?
As Kurtis takes Grey under his wing, they come up with a name, an insignia and attract more and more followers to their extreme acts. The lines between social activism and criminal behavior blur and their escalating stunts become a rallying point for the underprivileged and disenfranchised around the country, spreading like wildfire across the Internet. How far will Grey and Kurtis go to push their message, and can their fragile alliance withstand their growing power?
285 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 19, 2016
26 people are currently reading
733 people want to read
About the author
Ryan Gattis
23 books269 followersRyan Gattis is the author of Safe, Kung Fu High School, The System (July 2020), The Big Drop novellas (Homecoming & Impermanence) and All Involved, which won the Alex Award from the American Library Association and the Lire Award for Noir of the Year in France. He lives and writes in South Los Angeles, where he is a member of art collective UGLARworks, a founding board member of arts non-profit Heritage Future, and a PEN America Prison Writing Mentor.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
February 16, 2017
Gripping, relevant, honest.
This was one of the better YA books I've read in a while; one that cuts straight to the point instead of having cheesy fillers. I haven't read Gattis' other novel "All Involved" yet but it's on my must-read shelf, and after reading this, it has pushed itself closer to the top of the pile.
The book is set in Baltimore, where the protagonist, Grey Monroe moves to after his mother is murdered by his father's hand. Grey is separated from his siblings and goes to live with Aunt Blue, a firm but kind, takes-no-shit kind of woman (something I think we need to see more of particularly in YA). Grey befriends Akil, who has a similar background in grief and soon Grey is merged into Akil's world of BMXing with other characters: Kurtis, Little Nate, Mike and Mon. Their group is into riding around B-more's streets and posting videos for their online fanbase. Grey becomes completely immersed in this and finds an escape to distract him from the void of his mother's death and his family breaking apart.
But as time goes by and the boy's rides become more intense, so do the stakes. The book shows insight into dirty cops on the streets, including something that causes an abrupt twist [spoiler removed] that makes the group take action. There is discussion of police brutality, racism, learning to speak up for yourself and others, what it truly means to be free as well as the general idea of Baltimore's logistics.
Similar to Jason Reynold's excellent "All-American Boys", this is a great example of current events in literature and is bound to provoke some strong emotions. This is the kind of book that is needed in a world that is always moving forward, yet remains still in some aspects.
The reason why I docked off a star: I could have done without character's races being described as food; that was a bit hard to overlook. I loved Grey and Aunt Blue's relationship and the way she gave him books to discuss, but I would have really loved to see him have some kind of interaction with his siblings. Blue also makes Grey see a psychologist to have him deal with his loss; there wasn't much detail into this which I am still kind of on the fence about. I suppose there are grief YA books by the dozen, but in a way, I would have liked to see it play a larger role. I didn't like how Kurtis' illness was downplayed and swept under the rug. The ending was also a bit unrealistic, but ties to the concept of the book.
Grey is a biracial teenager trying to find his way in a world that doesn't deem him as "black/white" enough. His struggle to overcome, keep true to himself and honor those who he has lost is remarkably shown in this fast read. This is definitely worth your time and most recommended.
This was one of the better YA books I've read in a while; one that cuts straight to the point instead of having cheesy fillers. I haven't read Gattis' other novel "All Involved" yet but it's on my must-read shelf, and after reading this, it has pushed itself closer to the top of the pile.
The book is set in Baltimore, where the protagonist, Grey Monroe moves to after his mother is murdered by his father's hand. Grey is separated from his siblings and goes to live with Aunt Blue, a firm but kind, takes-no-shit kind of woman (something I think we need to see more of particularly in YA). Grey befriends Akil, who has a similar background in grief and soon Grey is merged into Akil's world of BMXing with other characters: Kurtis, Little Nate, Mike and Mon. Their group is into riding around B-more's streets and posting videos for their online fanbase. Grey becomes completely immersed in this and finds an escape to distract him from the void of his mother's death and his family breaking apart.
But as time goes by and the boy's rides become more intense, so do the stakes. The book shows insight into dirty cops on the streets, including something that causes an abrupt twist [spoiler removed] that makes the group take action. There is discussion of police brutality, racism, learning to speak up for yourself and others, what it truly means to be free as well as the general idea of Baltimore's logistics.
Similar to Jason Reynold's excellent "All-American Boys", this is a great example of current events in literature and is bound to provoke some strong emotions. This is the kind of book that is needed in a world that is always moving forward, yet remains still in some aspects.
The reason why I docked off a star: I could have done without character's races being described as food; that was a bit hard to overlook. I loved Grey and Aunt Blue's relationship and the way she gave him books to discuss, but I would have really loved to see him have some kind of interaction with his siblings. Blue also makes Grey see a psychologist to have him deal with his loss; there wasn't much detail into this which I am still kind of on the fence about. I suppose there are grief YA books by the dozen, but in a way, I would have liked to see it play a larger role. I didn't like how Kurtis' illness was downplayed and swept under the rug. The ending was also a bit unrealistic, but ties to the concept of the book.
Grey is a biracial teenager trying to find his way in a world that doesn't deem him as "black/white" enough. His struggle to overcome, keep true to himself and honor those who he has lost is remarkably shown in this fast read. This is definitely worth your time and most recommended.
October 8, 2016
I got this book in June during a barns and noble book fest, as a prize. Initially, for some reason I thought it would be a boring historical book by the cover. But I finally decided to pick it up in September, and boy, that was a good choice!
This story is about the struggles of a boy who moves to the city with his aunt after his mom dies. He joins a group of internet-famous people who do bike stunts. It's exhilarating to experience the dangerous moves from his point of view. I'd have to say my favorite thing about this book is the deep personalities of the characters, and the casual style of the dialogue.
This story is about the struggles of a boy who moves to the city with his aunt after his mom dies. He joins a group of internet-famous people who do bike stunts. It's exhilarating to experience the dangerous moves from his point of view. I'd have to say my favorite thing about this book is the deep personalities of the characters, and the casual style of the dialogue.
April 28, 2018
I was recommended Ryan Gattis by many of my readers and this was the only novel of his available in paperback format here, so here I am.
Definitely a solid novel, Gattis can write. It was obviously aimed at a younger audience than me, so I rolled my eyes a couple times at the obviousness of the uplifting message, but it's great for what it is. I would've loved having a book telling me I could impact the world by doing something else than doing to school and getting a degree, back then.
I would love to read something more adult by him.
Definitely a solid novel, Gattis can write. It was obviously aimed at a younger audience than me, so I rolled my eyes a couple times at the obviousness of the uplifting message, but it's great for what it is. I would've loved having a book telling me I could impact the world by doing something else than doing to school and getting a degree, back then.
I would love to read something more adult by him.
August 7, 2017
I really enjoyed this book! If I were not on a committee where this book would be discussed I probably would never have picked it up. I loved Grey! After moving to Baltimore with his Aunt after his father killed his mother and being separated from his siblings he makes friends with some guys and it really turns into a real brotherhood. I love that even though there was a tragedy in the story the others didn't go down a dark road to ruining their lives. I am new to Baltimore and so it was good to read a book set in Baltimore and being familiar with some of the streets and places that were mentioned throughout the story. Definitely an inspiring story to find a way to become visible in a society that tries to treat you like you aren't.
The only reasons I gave this book 4 stars is because I wanted to know more about Grey's siblings. He didn't talk to them much and I just would have liked to know how their process of grief was going but that would have made the book longer. This is definitely a great read for a teen who doesn't like long chapters.
The only reasons I gave this book 4 stars is because I wanted to know more about Grey's siblings. He didn't talk to them much and I just would have liked to know how their process of grief was going but that would have made the book longer. This is definitely a great read for a teen who doesn't like long chapters.
February 8, 2017
Air is about a boy named Grey. Grey witnessed his mother's death (saw his father walk out with his mother blood on it). Grey moves in with his Aunt Blue in Baltimore. Grey meets Akil Williams and his dirt bikes. Akil and Grey ride the dirt bikes (illegally) through the city. Akil and Grey meet Kurtis. Kurtis is this amazing dirt bike hero. Grey, Akil, and Kurtis battle the police throughout the novel.
Air really got me thinking. Akil dies in the novel, right? That was the police fault in the novel. Now I'm not black and not a boy, but I'm pretty smart and can figure things out on my own. What the police did in the novel was wrong, and I think he should not get charged for just by manslaughter, but also for murder. Police are not suppose to chase. It's like in South Carolina when the cop shot the black man. We don't know exactly what the ordeal was or what the cop and the man said, but what the cop did was not right. Many other scenarios where a cop kills someone, anyone, for nondefense is not right.
In the novel, Kurtis and Air jump off the Transamerica Building which is super tall. The day before they jump off it, Aunt Blue tells Grey that she won't give him his blessing to jump off the building because he is like a child to her and she is responsible for him and can't bear to see him die. I mean, you can't blame her for being worried. If I was put in her situation, I probably wouldn't have said no but couldn't have said yes. Luckily, she wasn't there to see Grey and Kurtis jump.
Air really surprised me. I thought it was going to be some stupid boy book with BMX and boringness and hey, his mother died. But no. It's so much more than that. It's about finding a path to a sense of freedom. It's about no being afraid to do something you love. It was spectacular, and I loved every single second of it.
Air really got me thinking. Akil dies in the novel, right? That was the police fault in the novel. Now I'm not black and not a boy, but I'm pretty smart and can figure things out on my own. What the police did in the novel was wrong, and I think he should not get charged for just by manslaughter, but also for murder. Police are not suppose to chase. It's like in South Carolina when the cop shot the black man. We don't know exactly what the ordeal was or what the cop and the man said, but what the cop did was not right. Many other scenarios where a cop kills someone, anyone, for nondefense is not right.
In the novel, Kurtis and Air jump off the Transamerica Building which is super tall. The day before they jump off it, Aunt Blue tells Grey that she won't give him his blessing to jump off the building because he is like a child to her and she is responsible for him and can't bear to see him die. I mean, you can't blame her for being worried. If I was put in her situation, I probably wouldn't have said no but couldn't have said yes. Luckily, she wasn't there to see Grey and Kurtis jump.
Air really surprised me. I thought it was going to be some stupid boy book with BMX and boringness and hey, his mother died. But no. It's so much more than that. It's about finding a path to a sense of freedom. It's about no being afraid to do something you love. It was spectacular, and I loved every single second of it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 12, 2018
This book had an interesting premise, but as I went through it, I found myself being less and less interested. Maybe that's a result of me having so many things going on that I didn't really give it a chance to really get into it. Who knows. I think Grey is an okay character, but I can't really say that there was something relatively special about him. I would definitely recommend this book to a high-school age guy/girl who doesn't necessarily like reading but likes dirt bikes.
May 18, 2021
Definitely great for teen readers, especially self-labeled "non-readers." The fast action and adrenaline will draw them in.
December 16, 2016
I received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
I wish I loved this book as much as other people loved it. There were some things I liked: I liked the character of Grey (though I didn't always understand his motives) and I loved that his guardian was a big part of his life. She pushed him to read new books and I loved that. I felt bad for the fact that Grey felt so out of place because he was biracial. He had a black mother who died and his white father killed her. He actually saw his mom's body and that messed him up. It sucked that he had to be split up from his siblings, but there were four of them and it was realistic that one family member probably wouldn't be able to take them all.
Okay, so here are some issues I had with the book. First of all, the author starts the book with a prologue and this prologue actually takes place after most of the action in the book. I don't always have an issue with these kinds of prologues, except for the fact that the author revealed a major plot point in this chapter. I despise spoilers and I hate them even more when the author is the one who reveals them. When this major plot point happens later in the book, there is no emotional punch because I saw it coming. And even though I liked the character of Akil, I thought the friendships were a bit underdeveloped. And I really didn't understand Grey's need to do death defying stunts. The stuff with the police was a bit over the top. Since when do police in Baltimore focus their energies on kids on bikes even though they haven't committed any crimes? But when there was an accident with a kid on a bike that injured a child, Grey and his friends still thought they weren't doing anything wrong. I didn't really understand any of the biking stuff honestly. There were times when the police were overreacting and there were times when Grey and his friends are deliberately antagonizing the police, which just irked me.
This was an okay book with an interesting concept. I just wish the author would have gone deeper with some of the characters and relationships.
I wish I loved this book as much as other people loved it. There were some things I liked: I liked the character of Grey (though I didn't always understand his motives) and I loved that his guardian was a big part of his life. She pushed him to read new books and I loved that. I felt bad for the fact that Grey felt so out of place because he was biracial. He had a black mother who died and his white father killed her. He actually saw his mom's body and that messed him up. It sucked that he had to be split up from his siblings, but there were four of them and it was realistic that one family member probably wouldn't be able to take them all.
Okay, so here are some issues I had with the book. First of all, the author starts the book with a prologue and this prologue actually takes place after most of the action in the book. I don't always have an issue with these kinds of prologues, except for the fact that the author revealed a major plot point in this chapter. I despise spoilers and I hate them even more when the author is the one who reveals them. When this major plot point happens later in the book, there is no emotional punch because I saw it coming. And even though I liked the character of Akil, I thought the friendships were a bit underdeveloped. And I really didn't understand Grey's need to do death defying stunts. The stuff with the police was a bit over the top. Since when do police in Baltimore focus their energies on kids on bikes even though they haven't committed any crimes? But when there was an accident with a kid on a bike that injured a child, Grey and his friends still thought they weren't doing anything wrong. I didn't really understand any of the biking stuff honestly. There were times when the police were overreacting and there were times when Grey and his friends are deliberately antagonizing the police, which just irked me.
This was an okay book with an interesting concept. I just wish the author would have gone deeper with some of the characters and relationships.
June 12, 2016
I would like to thank the publisher – Adaptive Publisher for sending this copy. This will not affect my reviews.
I would like to thank the publisher – Adaptive Publishing for sending this copy. This will not affect my reviews.
WOW! I didn’t expect this book. This is a wonderful book and everyone should read this.
I haven’t read the previous work of Ryan Gattis but this book left me speechless. I am also emotional reading this book. The way he writes the story is heartwrenching and thought provoking. I haven’t read this kind of book though I sometimes heard a news related to this story.
The story is about a young black people who loves to ride big bikes and BMX and the police imposed a public safety on riding a big bike. When their one friend died because of the policeman, they started on creating a group name dedicated to all black people who were the victims of discrimination and also the hate crimes.
The protagonist Grey – witnessed his mother got killed by his father. Then, he lived with his aunt in Baltimore. There, he met his new friends Akil and Kurtis. The relationship between them were strong and they have the same experiences in life. What I also love is the relationship between Grey and his aunt. Aunt Blue may be strict but that’s because she loves and truly cared for Grey. It also shows how unfair the society is because of the ramification of the race or ethnicity.
How many times do we need to see the discrimination against the black people? The representation of the black people as a thugs or drug dealers. This book is the voice of people like them.
“ONLY FOR THOSE WHO LIVE TO BE FREE”
I would like to thank the publisher – Adaptive Publishing for sending this copy. This will not affect my reviews.
WOW! I didn’t expect this book. This is a wonderful book and everyone should read this.
I haven’t read the previous work of Ryan Gattis but this book left me speechless. I am also emotional reading this book. The way he writes the story is heartwrenching and thought provoking. I haven’t read this kind of book though I sometimes heard a news related to this story.
The story is about a young black people who loves to ride big bikes and BMX and the police imposed a public safety on riding a big bike. When their one friend died because of the policeman, they started on creating a group name dedicated to all black people who were the victims of discrimination and also the hate crimes.
The protagonist Grey – witnessed his mother got killed by his father. Then, he lived with his aunt in Baltimore. There, he met his new friends Akil and Kurtis. The relationship between them were strong and they have the same experiences in life. What I also love is the relationship between Grey and his aunt. Aunt Blue may be strict but that’s because she loves and truly cared for Grey. It also shows how unfair the society is because of the ramification of the race or ethnicity.
How many times do we need to see the discrimination against the black people? The representation of the black people as a thugs or drug dealers. This book is the voice of people like them.
“ONLY FOR THOSE WHO LIVE TO BE FREE”
February 28, 2018
Okay, my previous enthusiasm has fizzled out. I couldn't pinpoint my feelings but was unsettled by the whole "I'm black and white which makes Grey". Until page 160 with the quote "being black with Kurtis is almost like graduating from being mixed. And I'll take that".
The whole premise is fucked. It's that white people shit of "fuck til everyone is grey so racism won't matter". I'm ashamed I took that long to connect the dots.
I've resolved to stop reading books I don't enjoy and this really killed any lingering desire to continue. It's in the uncanny Valley region where it's not quite how teens really are and it feels OFF. Or maybe Grey is just fucking annoying. I don't know. After reading THUG, kids pulling stunts for YouTube hits just seems petty and rediculous.
The whole premise is fucked. It's that white people shit of "fuck til everyone is grey so racism won't matter". I'm ashamed I took that long to connect the dots.
I've resolved to stop reading books I don't enjoy and this really killed any lingering desire to continue. It's in the uncanny Valley region where it's not quite how teens really are and it feels OFF. Or maybe Grey is just fucking annoying. I don't know. After reading THUG, kids pulling stunts for YouTube hits just seems petty and rediculous.
December 6, 2018
Evelyn Ioane
Mrs.Diggins
English 10
03 November 2018
Book Review
‘Air’ is a book written by Ryan Gattis and was published on December 6, 2016. This book is about racial inequities and police brutalities. This book is text to world because is certain places all around the world there is real life situations that happen where people are getting killed by the color of their skin and even pulled over. I really liked this book because it relates to real life situations in the world and this story is also true.
Grey Monroe is 17 years old when his father murders his mother in their Colorado home. After they had his mother’s funeral, Grey and his younger siblings all had gotten separated and Grey gets sent to his Aunt Blue in Baltimore. When Grey has arrived to Baltimore he had a rough couple of days and also got jumped by his group of boys that went to his school. Later on Grey met this teenage boy named Akill Williams but he lives by himself and riding dirt bikes is his thing. When they first met, Akill convinced Grey to ride with him through the streets of Baltimore and from there on Grey is absolutely hooked on freedom and adrenaline the bike brings. While they were both riding around the city they end up saving this teen, Kurtis. He had just got done jumping off a building with a parachute but he didn’t land right and hurt himself, so both Grey and Akill saved him before the cops could get to him. Kurt is an internet-famous, Motorsport, daredevil who blues the lines between social activism and criminal behavior. All three of them end up becoming the closest of friends. One day they were all out riding at night and they got caught up by the police and as their being chased, Akill is run down by a vindictive police officer and the officer killed him with Grey witnessing which triggers something in him and is now thinking of how that officer is going to pay for it .Grey and Kurtis end up creating a group where teens around the country and community come together and rides and it’s where the lines between social activism and criminal behavior blur and their escalating stunts become a rallying point for the unprivileged and disenfranchised around the country, spreading like wildfire across the internet.
I loved this book because I loved the way Grey expressed himself with creating a group for teens to join and stand up for themselves and instead of Grey trying to hurt that officer physically, him and Kurtis found another with their message and they did get far.
Mrs.Diggins
English 10
03 November 2018
Book Review
‘Air’ is a book written by Ryan Gattis and was published on December 6, 2016. This book is about racial inequities and police brutalities. This book is text to world because is certain places all around the world there is real life situations that happen where people are getting killed by the color of their skin and even pulled over. I really liked this book because it relates to real life situations in the world and this story is also true.
Grey Monroe is 17 years old when his father murders his mother in their Colorado home. After they had his mother’s funeral, Grey and his younger siblings all had gotten separated and Grey gets sent to his Aunt Blue in Baltimore. When Grey has arrived to Baltimore he had a rough couple of days and also got jumped by his group of boys that went to his school. Later on Grey met this teenage boy named Akill Williams but he lives by himself and riding dirt bikes is his thing. When they first met, Akill convinced Grey to ride with him through the streets of Baltimore and from there on Grey is absolutely hooked on freedom and adrenaline the bike brings. While they were both riding around the city they end up saving this teen, Kurtis. He had just got done jumping off a building with a parachute but he didn’t land right and hurt himself, so both Grey and Akill saved him before the cops could get to him. Kurt is an internet-famous, Motorsport, daredevil who blues the lines between social activism and criminal behavior. All three of them end up becoming the closest of friends. One day they were all out riding at night and they got caught up by the police and as their being chased, Akill is run down by a vindictive police officer and the officer killed him with Grey witnessing which triggers something in him and is now thinking of how that officer is going to pay for it .Grey and Kurtis end up creating a group where teens around the country and community come together and rides and it’s where the lines between social activism and criminal behavior blur and their escalating stunts become a rallying point for the unprivileged and disenfranchised around the country, spreading like wildfire across the internet.
I loved this book because I loved the way Grey expressed himself with creating a group for teens to join and stand up for themselves and instead of Grey trying to hurt that officer physically, him and Kurtis found another with their message and they did get far.
January 23, 2019
Air by Ryan Gattis is a honest book. A book teenagers could relate to in a different perspective. I liked that the book has a sense of reality such as, problems with cops, personal flaws and insecurities, self expression, and thrills. One thing I don’t like about the book is that some things didn’t come together. Also, the characters had too much problems and the story sometimes had too much drama. The book isn’t as exciting as I had expected it to. There were a few parts I wanted more details on.
Air is a story about Grey Monroe. A 17 year old boy from Colorado. He had witnessed his mother’s death by his own father. Him and his younger siblings are sent off to other family members houses to live with. Grey went to live with his aunt blue in Baltimore. Grey has great guidance from his Aunt blue. She’s honest, supportive, a great listener, very caring, and he knows she’s there if he ever needs her. He has a hard time fitting in with other crowds. Until he meets his friend Akil who introduces him to Kurtis. Grey getting out and exploring the world around him with his experiences.
I believe this story has multiple messages in it. The type of character Grey turns into further into the story. Doing what he loves and finding himself again, boosting his confidence level. At times, you’ll come to parts where the story is boring, just because on what type of personality Grey has. The layout of the story didn’t always add up for me. I got last because of Grey’s thought and trying to piece them together. Overall, it was a good book
Air is a story about Grey Monroe. A 17 year old boy from Colorado. He had witnessed his mother’s death by his own father. Him and his younger siblings are sent off to other family members houses to live with. Grey went to live with his aunt blue in Baltimore. Grey has great guidance from his Aunt blue. She’s honest, supportive, a great listener, very caring, and he knows she’s there if he ever needs her. He has a hard time fitting in with other crowds. Until he meets his friend Akil who introduces him to Kurtis. Grey getting out and exploring the world around him with his experiences.
I believe this story has multiple messages in it. The type of character Grey turns into further into the story. Doing what he loves and finding himself again, boosting his confidence level. At times, you’ll come to parts where the story is boring, just because on what type of personality Grey has. The layout of the story didn’t always add up for me. I got last because of Grey’s thought and trying to piece them together. Overall, it was a good book
January 3, 2018
This was a seesaw book for me - sometimes I loved it and sometimes I went to the other side of the spectrum. Some things that I loved? The portrayal of Baltimore - gritty, interesting, and real; Gray as a character - overall, he was well-developed and the brotherhood he formed with his new friends was true-to-life; the social justice angle - I really liked the fact that they showed how messages can be manipulated (whether for good or bad) - and I also loved that teenagers were being shown as social justice-minded. Aunt Blue as a character - she was interesting, strong, and a well-developed secondary character that I just loved. The things I disliked? The non-portrayal of therapy - Gray never really goes into this and it's not shown as either a help or hindrance which just annoyed me; the big question mark about Gray's siblings - I think it would have added a lot to Gray as a character to know more about his relationships with his siblings. The danger of the BMX protest to others - although I understand it as a means for rebellion and social commentary, it bothered me that innocent bystanders could be killed by the actions of Gray and his friends - although (spoiler alert) it doesn't happen in the book, it's a real possibility that seemed to be glossed over by Gattis. All in all, this was definitely a good read (got some good conversations going), but it didn't always sit well with me.
May 22, 2017
I won this novel in a Goodreads giveaway.
It's a Young Adult novel, which I must not have noticed prior to entering the giveaway. It seems a bit adult in subject matter for being 14+ recommended.
This is the story of a boy who's family is split up after his estranged father brutally murders his mom at their home in Colorado. Grey is the oldest of 4 biracial/mixed kids, with one younger brother, and the youngest are twins. The kids are farmed out to different family members, though the twins get to stay together. Grey is sent to Baltimore with his mom's oldest sister, Aunt Blue.
Grey goes from being bullied as the New Kid to being The Man. It is a brutal and violent transition with no happy endings, even when things go well. Talks in depth about poverty and want, police brutality and murder, domestic violence and the emotional aftermath.
This is a short story with lots of complexity. Recommended for anyone over 16 with a bit of a broad worldview, who wouldn't be shocked by police murdering young Black men. You could probably read it in a few uninterrupted hours.
It's a Young Adult novel, which I must not have noticed prior to entering the giveaway. It seems a bit adult in subject matter for being 14+ recommended.
This is the story of a boy who's family is split up after his estranged father brutally murders his mom at their home in Colorado. Grey is the oldest of 4 biracial/mixed kids, with one younger brother, and the youngest are twins. The kids are farmed out to different family members, though the twins get to stay together. Grey is sent to Baltimore with his mom's oldest sister, Aunt Blue.
Grey goes from being bullied as the New Kid to being The Man. It is a brutal and violent transition with no happy endings, even when things go well. Talks in depth about poverty and want, police brutality and murder, domestic violence and the emotional aftermath.
This is a short story with lots of complexity. Recommended for anyone over 16 with a bit of a broad worldview, who wouldn't be shocked by police murdering young Black men. You could probably read it in a few uninterrupted hours.
August 2, 2018
I'm a firm believer in there being no such things as "girl books" and " boy books". Having said that, I do believe this book is one that will appeal to my boy readers way more than most of my girls. And that's not a bad thing! Sometimes it's a struggle to find books that will appeal to high school boys (except for the ones who are already readers!)
I enjoyed this one, but it took a while for the story to really get going. I appreciated Grey, and I really loved his Aunt Blue. I saw a few minor things in the story that just felt.. odd. Like at one point when Grey wrecks and even gets a stitch, but yet his super observant Aunt who is a nurse didn't notice? I just don't buy it. There were just some minor inconsistencies, but nothing that would have really changed the story, so they were fine.
This isn't one I'd tell you to rush out to read, but if it ever crosses your path, it's a good one.
I enjoyed this one, but it took a while for the story to really get going. I appreciated Grey, and I really loved his Aunt Blue. I saw a few minor things in the story that just felt.. odd. Like at one point when Grey wrecks and even gets a stitch, but yet his super observant Aunt who is a nurse didn't notice? I just don't buy it. There were just some minor inconsistencies, but nothing that would have really changed the story, so they were fine.
This isn't one I'd tell you to rush out to read, but if it ever crosses your path, it's a good one.
June 25, 2018
Air is a unique young adult novel about a Colorado boy who is transplanted to inner-city Baltimore after the tragic death of his mother. Separated from his siblings and the life he knew in the mountains of CO, he finds solace in the company of an activist “gang” of high-flying biking daredevils with the mission to be seen and help make visible the plight of young black men and women and anyone else disenfranchised and “unseen” visible. Grey and his gang are not just daredevils who challenge and frustrate the police force with death-defying, dangerous stunts, but they are a group that fights to give the voiceless a voice in a unique way. Fast-paced and timely.
Grey is an engaging narrator, the story is easy to read, but also thought-provoking and relevant in today's world. A book that makes you think: who you are, how to make a difference, and how to be seen in a world of the unseen.
Grey is an engaging narrator, the story is easy to read, but also thought-provoking and relevant in today's world. A book that makes you think: who you are, how to make a difference, and how to be seen in a world of the unseen.
December 6, 2019
In my opinion, I believe that this book is very suspenseful. The main character is very important because he is going through alot since his mother passed. Throughout the story he gets bullied, he has to move towns to live with his mean aunt and has to start at a new school. As the year goes on he meets his new friend zack that is just like him, his mom also passed away and he had to move in with his grandma. They both find a passion that they enjoy and that is motocross. Now everyday after school let go to the jump ramps and get some air. This book would attract teenage boys the most because they like to get outside and get dirty.
In this book, Grey has a best friend that he does everything with after school. They ride dirt bikes and play outside together. When Grey is upset, his best friend is always there for him when Grey needs him. Similarly, the book The Diary of a Wimpy Kid is about a teenage boy named Greg and he goes through many troubles in life; however, his best friend Rowley always makes him happy. They play football, video games, and write comics together. Both of these books are about best friends that are always together and always have each others backs.
The book Air has many meaningful quotes within it. The most meaningful quote is, “I might not agree with you, but I believe in you, so I'll stand by you”. This quote is very relevant to the teeagers that read this book because every teenager has arguments with their friends and they will have their disagreements, but if they are true friends, they will always support the right decisions that they make.
In this book, Grey has a best friend that he does everything with after school. They ride dirt bikes and play outside together. When Grey is upset, his best friend is always there for him when Grey needs him. Similarly, the book The Diary of a Wimpy Kid is about a teenage boy named Greg and he goes through many troubles in life; however, his best friend Rowley always makes him happy. They play football, video games, and write comics together. Both of these books are about best friends that are always together and always have each others backs.
The book Air has many meaningful quotes within it. The most meaningful quote is, “I might not agree with you, but I believe in you, so I'll stand by you”. This quote is very relevant to the teeagers that read this book because every teenager has arguments with their friends and they will have their disagreements, but if they are true friends, they will always support the right decisions that they make.
May 19, 2017
Fairly well developed main character that is reckless beyond belief. Still it was a fun read even though I was anxious all the way through. As a white person I appreciated the brief but poignant insights the author shared about the continued subjugation of black people in the U.S. and about how clueless white people are to it. For example, "He's exactly the kind of white guy that never thinks about what it means to be a white guy ever. To him it's just how it is, not something other people try to decide for you. The way he talks to people and calls them 'bro', he's the type of person I avoid."
June 14, 2017
One thing I will give this books props for is the original story line. I personally have never read or even heard of a book about "high-octane sports." So originally going in the story line is definetly what caught my interest. As I started reading however I found it difficult to connect well with the characters. The book for me dragged on and became really boring. It wasn't until towards the end when I began to realize the deeper meaning I believe Ryan Gattis was trying to portray. I won't say what that is because I found it a very nice surprise. That little surprise is what prompted me to give it 3 starts instead of 2.
March 14, 2018
In Baltimore a kid named gray is living with his aunt. his mom had died and he was the last pick, aunt blue got stuck with him. aunt blue has tones of rules, but grey feels good when he is on a motorcycle. she doesn't want him to do it but he did the mom card that says he feels free and away from all his grief. so aunt makes a lot more rules for him and his dirt bike. he then goes on to do some illegal stunts. it goes on and his best friend dies, it sends him into some more grief.
To make a kid grief start out by taking his dad out of the picture. secondly have the dad kill the kids mom. then separate the family. optional take his friends life away. finally keep him alone in a room to think about all he could have done to save his family/friends.
And to make cool videos and get followers you have to have cool nick names. then you should be able to do cool tricks. you also need to have a group and a professional recorder. and finally you will get more followers and more videos.
i really liked this book. it had a lot of emotion in it. although it did swear a lot, like A LOT. but it was a really good book.the swearing was the only reason i gave it a four. this book is really good and i will probably read this again.
To make a kid grief start out by taking his dad out of the picture. secondly have the dad kill the kids mom. then separate the family. optional take his friends life away. finally keep him alone in a room to think about all he could have done to save his family/friends.
And to make cool videos and get followers you have to have cool nick names. then you should be able to do cool tricks. you also need to have a group and a professional recorder. and finally you will get more followers and more videos.
i really liked this book. it had a lot of emotion in it. although it did swear a lot, like A LOT. but it was a really good book.the swearing was the only reason i gave it a four. this book is really good and i will probably read this again.
July 28, 2019
When I started this book, I expected it to be about a group of boys who performed daring stunts on dirtbikes. It was going to be fast-paced and full of nail-biting action. And it was... but it was more. It was about healing after tragedy, finding your "thing," being seen, standing up for what is right/what you believe in, and fighting back against corrupt police officers. This book was just so. Much. More. than I expected! It took me awhile to get into it, but once I did, I was absolutely invested in Kurtis's and Air's journey! My only disappointment was that the plot line of Grey (Air) being separated from his siblings was completely absent. But otherwise, really good read.
January 10, 2023
rating: 3.5
characters: 3.5
jokes: 4 (I enjoyed them if you can’t tell)
plot: 3.5 - I feel like the idea behind the plot was meaningful, the plot was good as well but I think the progression threw me off
I enjoyed the book! The end of the book was suspenseful; I think those few pages were my favorite. This book did make me laugh a lot. I felt like I could relate to certain topics that were discussed or occurred in it. However, I almost thought I wouldn’t finish the book. I started to lose interest and part of the reason why is probably because it was feeling like a school book. Regardless, I liked the book but I didn’t love it.
characters: 3.5
jokes: 4 (I enjoyed them if you can’t tell)
plot: 3.5 - I feel like the idea behind the plot was meaningful, the plot was good as well but I think the progression threw me off
I enjoyed the book! The end of the book was suspenseful; I think those few pages were my favorite. This book did make me laugh a lot. I felt like I could relate to certain topics that were discussed or occurred in it. However, I almost thought I wouldn’t finish the book. I started to lose interest and part of the reason why is probably because it was feeling like a school book. Regardless, I liked the book but I didn’t love it.
July 27, 2018
My experience with this book was I watch movies that match the plot of this book and while I was reading the book I would try and guess what would happen next based on movies I've seen and the plot. What I liked about Air was the constant action in the book that made me want to read it more. What I thought could be better about the book was You met a lot of characters in the book but the author never expanded on those characters.
December 9, 2018
Overall, I liked the book. It was an easy read with more "meat" than I expected. At first glance, it appears like a book more suited for boys, but I think the elements of grief and social justice make it appealing to everyone. I also really liked how it demobstrated that everyone can make a difference. My biggest complaint would be that I didn't feel like this was the author's own voice - he is white and the main characters are not.
October 19, 2021
This book is a perfect read for teens and adults. I loved how the main character struggled with his past with his momma, but found a way to feel free from the world. This book keeps you hooked sometimes I found myself reading it late into the night. The book starts with a flash forward into the future then starts at the beginning so you have to read the whole book to find out what happens to the main character in the end. Overall great book.
July 8, 2019
It definitely grips you tight and takes you for a ride. It loses traction a couple of times un the middle, then picks right back up.
My only issue is the end left me with lingering questions. The main plot wraps, but I want to know what's next for everyone. Because there will be consequences and the book sorta dodges that.
My only issue is the end left me with lingering questions. The main plot wraps, but I want to know what's next for everyone. Because there will be consequences and the book sorta dodges that.
December 2, 2019
This is the best book I have read all year. I didn’t know I could be this into a book before. I recommend it to everyone, but I think the boys would enjoy it the most. I honestly think Air relates to the bible because when Grey’s mom died it made him change his life, and when Jesus died all of his followers were very compelled which made them want to change their lives when he resurrected.
February 16, 2018
Something about this book never quite came together for me. I never fell in love with the characters, nor was I particularly moved by the the social issue message, which never really defined itself that well. In the end it wasn't a bad read, just not that left much of an impression on me.
May 28, 2018
I finished it because it is one of the choice novels for extended reading, but I did not like it. I thought there were too many “issues” or problems the characters faced or are facing it read as very dramatized.
December 14, 2018
Even though I had a hard time understanding the motivation for some the stunts I kept coming back to this story. Grey's tragic loss was not unique to YA fiction but the after story is and I had to see it through!
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