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True True
In this powerful and fast-paced YA contemporary debut, a Black teen from Brooklyn struggles to fit in at his almost entirely-white Manhattan prep school, resulting in a fight and a plan for vengeance.
This is not how seventeen-year-old Gil imagined beginning his senior year—on the subway dressed in a tie and khakis headed towards Manhattan instead of his old public school in Brooklyn. Augustin Prep may only be a borough away, but the exclusive private school feels like it's a different world entirely compared to Gil's predominately Caribbean neighborhood in Brooklyn.
If it weren't for the partial scholarship, the school's robotic program and the chance for a better future, Gil wouldn't have even considered going. Then after a racist run-in with the school's golden boy on the first day ends in a fight that leaves only Gil suspended, Gil understands the truth about his new school—Augustin may pay lip service to diversity, but that isn’t the same as truly accepting him and the other Black students as equal. But Gil intends to leave his mark on Augustin anyway.
If the school isn't going to carve out a space for him, he will carve it out for himself. Using Sun Tzu’s The Art of War as his guide, Gil wages his own clandestine war against the racist administration, parents and students, and works with the other Black students to ensure their voices are finally heard. But the more enmeshed Gil becomes in school politics, the more difficult it becomes to balance not only his life at home with his friends and family, but a possible new romance with a girl he’d move mountains for. In the end, his war could cost him everything he wants the most.
304 pages, Hardcover
First published August 1, 2023
11 people are currently reading
3552 people want to read
About the author
Don P. Hooper
5 books35 followersDon P. Hooper is a writer and filmmaker of Jamaican heritage (and a programmer in a former life). His short story “Got Me a Jet Pack” is part of the New York Times bestselling anthology Black Boy Joy. His directing work has been featured in the Martha’s Vineyard African American Film Festival, the New York Television Film Festival (award winner), the New York City Horror Film Festival, the New Jersey Horror Con and Film Festival (award winner), and more. He does voice-over in video games and documentaries. True True is his debut novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
July 19, 2023
This debut boldly tackles some really tough issues in a really excellent way. I was very impressed, especially considered it was a debut. The main character Gil is really likable and it didn’t take me long to be cheering him on. Gil has a lot going on with his family (his dad is in Jamaica and working on papers to come back to America and his Grandmother has the beginning stages of dementia) but he is still excited about his new challenge of the prep school he is starting for his senior year. But the mostly white prep school wasn’t ready for him and after a racist comment he gets in a fight with another boy and is the only punished he realizes he wasn’t as welcome as he had been led to believe. This story is about identity but it is also about the more sneaky bias and prejudice that is sadly all too common. I thought the writing was very good and look forward to reading more by this author.
January 14, 2024
Gil Powell is a seventeen-year-old first-generation Jamaican-American living in Flatbush, Brooklyn. He’s a martial arts black belt and pretty good at robotics, too. For his senior year he’s decided to transfer to Augustin Prep, a tony high school on the Upper West Side. That means he’ll leave his neighborhood, school, friends and family behind, including a grandmother with dementia, the kids at his dojo, and his buddies Rej and Stretch. But the move will help his future, so it’s a hop on the 2 train to his new world of possibilities.
From day one, however, Augustin’s not at all what he hoped. He gets the cold shoulder from administration. He draws the ire of the overprivileged football captain. And before his first week’s over, he’s attacked by a group of football thugs and suspended for fighting, not to mention banned from robotics for six weeks. He does fall for a beautiful newspaper editor and makes friends with the Black student union, but it might not be enough to make up for the separation from his Brooklyn community.
Where Hooper’s book shines is in the contrasts of a Black teenager’s world, both in Brooklyn and Manhattan. It’s told in first person, and though I can’t say I’m all that hip, it seemed to me the lingo and mannerisms were spot-on accurate. We’re seeing things not only as Gil does, but in a voice that’s distinctly his. Every feeling, either euphoria or shame or anger, is deeply felt.
Also, the social commentary is clear and direct. Thanks to Hooper’s abundant talent for “show, don’t tell,” the incidents Gil encounters are even more shocking and palpable than I’d imagined. Like it or not, you feel every punch, every slur, every injustice. Forget about sugar-coating: if it’s Hooper’s aim to show you the atrocities and slights students of color experience when they dare to cross socioeconomic lines, even in this supposed enlightened age, he totally crushes it.
But that means that if you’re not ready to learn that private school educators, parents, and wealthy kids sometimes engage in hurtful, even illegal, micro- and macro-aggressions, this book is not for you. I thought at times it went just ever so slightly over the top, but if this is a close reflection of how things are in those settings, then I’m more disheartened than ever. Sorry to say, there are people out there, even in liberal New York, who claim a commitment to diversity, but not at the expense of their own aggrandizement. So, there’s a point to be made here, an exposure of underlying racism, that might make you uncomfortable.
Perhaps my favorite plot piece is the students’ formation of an Instagram-like account sharing students’ horror stories of going to Augustin. Things were going rather negative and combative, and how Gil helps (but not necessarily directs) the initiative was encouraging and even exciting. It’s also true to life: there are plenty of Twitter, internet, and Instagram accounts just like this one. I’ve never been on the other side of those, seeing how students come together. So, Hooper’s portrayal was welcome and enlightening.
True True is a fine realistic fiction piece, a unique YA story, and a creative window into the life of a Brooklyn kid with Caribbean roots. Congratulations to Don Hooper for his first foray into novel writing!
From day one, however, Augustin’s not at all what he hoped. He gets the cold shoulder from administration. He draws the ire of the overprivileged football captain. And before his first week’s over, he’s attacked by a group of football thugs and suspended for fighting, not to mention banned from robotics for six weeks. He does fall for a beautiful newspaper editor and makes friends with the Black student union, but it might not be enough to make up for the separation from his Brooklyn community.
Where Hooper’s book shines is in the contrasts of a Black teenager’s world, both in Brooklyn and Manhattan. It’s told in first person, and though I can’t say I’m all that hip, it seemed to me the lingo and mannerisms were spot-on accurate. We’re seeing things not only as Gil does, but in a voice that’s distinctly his. Every feeling, either euphoria or shame or anger, is deeply felt.
Also, the social commentary is clear and direct. Thanks to Hooper’s abundant talent for “show, don’t tell,” the incidents Gil encounters are even more shocking and palpable than I’d imagined. Like it or not, you feel every punch, every slur, every injustice. Forget about sugar-coating: if it’s Hooper’s aim to show you the atrocities and slights students of color experience when they dare to cross socioeconomic lines, even in this supposed enlightened age, he totally crushes it.
But that means that if you’re not ready to learn that private school educators, parents, and wealthy kids sometimes engage in hurtful, even illegal, micro- and macro-aggressions, this book is not for you. I thought at times it went just ever so slightly over the top, but if this is a close reflection of how things are in those settings, then I’m more disheartened than ever. Sorry to say, there are people out there, even in liberal New York, who claim a commitment to diversity, but not at the expense of their own aggrandizement. So, there’s a point to be made here, an exposure of underlying racism, that might make you uncomfortable.
Perhaps my favorite plot piece is the students’ formation of an Instagram-like account sharing students’ horror stories of going to Augustin. Things were going rather negative and combative, and how Gil helps (but not necessarily directs) the initiative was encouraging and even exciting. It’s also true to life: there are plenty of Twitter, internet, and Instagram accounts just like this one. I’ve never been on the other side of those, seeing how students come together. So, Hooper’s portrayal was welcome and enlightening.
True True is a fine realistic fiction piece, a unique YA story, and a creative window into the life of a Brooklyn kid with Caribbean roots. Congratulations to Don Hooper for his first foray into novel writing!
July 28, 2023
3.5 stars rounded up
True, True is a YA contemporary debut about a Black teen from Brooklyn who transfers to a mostly white prep school where he faces racism and microaggressions while struggling to balance his new school with his family and old friends at the karate dojo. This includes challenges with immigration for his father who had to return to Jamaica. I think it's a solid debut and feels pretty true to a teen experience, complete with mistakes and difficult lessons along the way. I feel a little ambivalent about it, but I think I just didn't realize just HOW YA this was going to read. That's not a bad thing, it's great for a teen audience, but this type of YA contemporary with teen romantic mishaps and learning how to be less self-oriented aren't typically my thing. Note that the racist bullying in this book is pretty intense and the main character is on a journey to learn how to uplift the voices of his fellow Black students and their experiences without always centering himself in a way that can cause pain to others. Which is an important lesson to learn. I received a copy of this book for review via NetGalley, all opinions are my own.
True, True is a YA contemporary debut about a Black teen from Brooklyn who transfers to a mostly white prep school where he faces racism and microaggressions while struggling to balance his new school with his family and old friends at the karate dojo. This includes challenges with immigration for his father who had to return to Jamaica. I think it's a solid debut and feels pretty true to a teen experience, complete with mistakes and difficult lessons along the way. I feel a little ambivalent about it, but I think I just didn't realize just HOW YA this was going to read. That's not a bad thing, it's great for a teen audience, but this type of YA contemporary with teen romantic mishaps and learning how to be less self-oriented aren't typically my thing. Note that the racist bullying in this book is pretty intense and the main character is on a journey to learn how to uplift the voices of his fellow Black students and their experiences without always centering himself in a way that can cause pain to others. Which is an important lesson to learn. I received a copy of this book for review via NetGalley, all opinions are my own.
June 28, 2023
Given how real this book is, I have no choice but to real right back. This book was hard to read. Not to say it wasn’t well written - it completely captivated me and felt 100% realistic. And that’s why it was hard, and by hard I mean painful, to read. It embarrasses me to think that white people really act this fucking stupid. But I know it’s happening - this book didn’t come out of nowhere. All I can say is that I am inspired by Gil and I can only hope to be as brave as many of the students in this book were if and when this fight comes to my doorstep.
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I don’t know what kinds of hashtags are fancy right now. But I do hope someday we can #endracism and #stophate
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I don’t know what kinds of hashtags are fancy right now. But I do hope someday we can #endracism and #stophate
August 3, 2023
I just wanted to give this kid a hug. He felt like the whole world was against him and reading it I felt like it too. Another one where I hated everyone in the book but the MC. I was giving him petty tips and all lol Real review to come!
June 21, 2023
I received an ARC from Penguin Teen through Bookishfirst, so the copy I read is an unedited version.
It has been an absolute pleasure reading Don P. Hooper's debut novel. The fact that this is a debut, absolutely blows my mind. It was well written and completely immersive. If there is any more editing required on this book, I really don't see how it could get any more perfect. It felt like I was watching Gil's life with my own eyes rather than reading it. Hooper really knows how to draw his reader's emotions out.
True True, will give you the hard cold truth about racism in our education system and society. It is honest about the growing pains of being a teenager who's quickly becoming an adult but is still making mistakes. And that's why I think I loved this book so much, because of how honest and real it felt.
Gil is the perfect protagonist. We love him, we're rooting for him, and the discrimination he experiences at his new school will piss you off. There is a clear line between Gil's home life and school life, and I feel like the train, in a way, symbolizes the change between the two. Gil's arc throughout the story was paced perfectly and we get to witness such an amazing character transformation. Watching him juggle between his two lives and finding the right balance in the end was the ultimate coming of age story.
It has been an absolute pleasure reading Don P. Hooper's debut novel. The fact that this is a debut, absolutely blows my mind. It was well written and completely immersive. If there is any more editing required on this book, I really don't see how it could get any more perfect. It felt like I was watching Gil's life with my own eyes rather than reading it. Hooper really knows how to draw his reader's emotions out.
True True, will give you the hard cold truth about racism in our education system and society. It is honest about the growing pains of being a teenager who's quickly becoming an adult but is still making mistakes. And that's why I think I loved this book so much, because of how honest and real it felt.
Gil is the perfect protagonist. We love him, we're rooting for him, and the discrimination he experiences at his new school will piss you off. There is a clear line between Gil's home life and school life, and I feel like the train, in a way, symbolizes the change between the two. Gil's arc throughout the story was paced perfectly and we get to witness such an amazing character transformation. Watching him juggle between his two lives and finding the right balance in the end was the ultimate coming of age story.
September 5, 2023
Stories like True True that depict microaggressions, on page racial violence and use of the N-word are not easy reads, yet important nonetheless, as these are not just works of fiction. This debut is both painful and powerful as it calls attention to institutions that boast of their "diversity and inclusivity" whilst actively maintaining an environment that tells a very different story.
Hooper writes in such a way that the pressure the main character faces throughout this book to be everything to everyone all of the time is palpable, and in his fight to be seen and heard, Gil Powell is a character that you desperately want to see win. True True may not be an easy read, but it's definitely a good one.
Hooper writes in such a way that the pressure the main character faces throughout this book to be everything to everyone all of the time is palpable, and in his fight to be seen and heard, Gil Powell is a character that you desperately want to see win. True True may not be an easy read, but it's definitely a good one.
July 6, 2023
ARC provided by Young Adult Books Central
Gil lives in Brooklyn, where his family is having some problems. His mother just got a job with the MTA after being waitlisted, so that's a good thing, but it's offset by his grandmother's worsening dementia, and the fact that his father has had to return to Jamaica in order to work out details of his immigration status. Gil knows this is crucial, because he's had a friend whose father was deported, but still misses his father. Because his high school doesn't have the STEM resources for him to properly prepare for college, he takes a position to go to Augustin Prep in Manhattan. He's glad for the opportunities that this might provide when it comes to college scholarships, and is excited about the robotics team, but is very reluctant to leave the comfort of his Brooklyn neighborhood and the strong cultural ties there. He knows that his prep school uniform will cause him trouble outside of Manhattan, and knows that in the rarified, mainly white atmosphere of Augustin Prep, his Blackness will be an issue. Even though he meets a few supportive people, like Tammy, who heads the Black Cultue Club group, there are constant microaggressions from staff as well as horrific treatment from students like Terry and his friends on the football team. After Gil innocently moves Terry's sweater in the cafeteria, Terry attacks Gil, and even uses the n-word. Of course, Gil is blamed for the altercation, and suspended. When he comes back, he is put on probation, which means he can't compete in robotics club or join the BCC. Also an avid martial arts practitioner who participates at the Always Persevere Dojo, he knows the moves he needs to physically defends himself, but accepts a copy of Sun Tzu's The Art of War from one of his teachers, and begins to formulate ways to fight back against the racist adminstration and culture of Augustin Prep. He wants to take full advantages of the privileges that the private school affords, but will he be able to?
Gil is a great character with a lot of different interests. He is very invested in the Always Persevere Dojo, and even mentors younger kids there. He is passionate about robotics, and looking forward to the opportunities that Augustin Prep will offer him. He is supportive of his friends in Brooklyn, Rej and Stretch, and realizes that they will not have the same chances that he has. Gil is conflicted about who he is and where he belongs, but when he sees the racial injustices that aren't being addressed at Augustin, he is willing to work to change them, even though there could be a personal price to pay. Even with all of that on his plate, he is still a teen boy, and his relationship with Tammy is based on mutual respect and equality, which I really appreciated.
Despite all of the racial issues that Gil and his classmates of color face, there were moments of hopefulness that keep Gil going. His grandmother, when she is not consumed by the fog of her dementia, is grateful that things have changed incrementally since she was young, and even since Gil's parents were starting out. It is good to see that Gil is able to have a sense of agency and tries to change the situations at his school, not just for himself, but for students who will come after him.
Readers who want to mix realistic teen drama with elements of racial issues and who liked this combination in Arnold's I Rise, Buford's Kneel and Coles' Black Was the Ink will enjoy this great debut novel from the author of the short story Got Me a Jet Pack, which was published in the 2021 Black Boy Joy collection. It would be a great fiction accompaniment to Wes Moore's autobiographical Discovering Wes Moore.
Gil lives in Brooklyn, where his family is having some problems. His mother just got a job with the MTA after being waitlisted, so that's a good thing, but it's offset by his grandmother's worsening dementia, and the fact that his father has had to return to Jamaica in order to work out details of his immigration status. Gil knows this is crucial, because he's had a friend whose father was deported, but still misses his father. Because his high school doesn't have the STEM resources for him to properly prepare for college, he takes a position to go to Augustin Prep in Manhattan. He's glad for the opportunities that this might provide when it comes to college scholarships, and is excited about the robotics team, but is very reluctant to leave the comfort of his Brooklyn neighborhood and the strong cultural ties there. He knows that his prep school uniform will cause him trouble outside of Manhattan, and knows that in the rarified, mainly white atmosphere of Augustin Prep, his Blackness will be an issue. Even though he meets a few supportive people, like Tammy, who heads the Black Cultue Club group, there are constant microaggressions from staff as well as horrific treatment from students like Terry and his friends on the football team. After Gil innocently moves Terry's sweater in the cafeteria, Terry attacks Gil, and even uses the n-word. Of course, Gil is blamed for the altercation, and suspended. When he comes back, he is put on probation, which means he can't compete in robotics club or join the BCC. Also an avid martial arts practitioner who participates at the Always Persevere Dojo, he knows the moves he needs to physically defends himself, but accepts a copy of Sun Tzu's The Art of War from one of his teachers, and begins to formulate ways to fight back against the racist adminstration and culture of Augustin Prep. He wants to take full advantages of the privileges that the private school affords, but will he be able to?
Gil is a great character with a lot of different interests. He is very invested in the Always Persevere Dojo, and even mentors younger kids there. He is passionate about robotics, and looking forward to the opportunities that Augustin Prep will offer him. He is supportive of his friends in Brooklyn, Rej and Stretch, and realizes that they will not have the same chances that he has. Gil is conflicted about who he is and where he belongs, but when he sees the racial injustices that aren't being addressed at Augustin, he is willing to work to change them, even though there could be a personal price to pay. Even with all of that on his plate, he is still a teen boy, and his relationship with Tammy is based on mutual respect and equality, which I really appreciated.
Despite all of the racial issues that Gil and his classmates of color face, there were moments of hopefulness that keep Gil going. His grandmother, when she is not consumed by the fog of her dementia, is grateful that things have changed incrementally since she was young, and even since Gil's parents were starting out. It is good to see that Gil is able to have a sense of agency and tries to change the situations at his school, not just for himself, but for students who will come after him.
Readers who want to mix realistic teen drama with elements of racial issues and who liked this combination in Arnold's I Rise, Buford's Kneel and Coles' Black Was the Ink will enjoy this great debut novel from the author of the short story Got Me a Jet Pack, which was published in the 2021 Black Boy Joy collection. It would be a great fiction accompaniment to Wes Moore's autobiographical Discovering Wes Moore.
September 4, 2023
“The greatest victory is that which requires no battle.” -Sun Tzu, The Art of War
🤖
Gil is a senior living in Brooklyn with a father in Jamaica and a mother and grandmother here hoping Gil can seize new opportunities. When the chance to attend Augustin Prep in Manhattan comes up, Gil can’t help but be enticed by the STEM and robotics program. However when he’s jumped by the school’s golden boy on day one, it leads to a suspension and removal from the robotics team. The injustice of it all angers Gil, who turns to Sun Tsu to help center and guide him moving forward. Working with BIPOC students Gil tries to change the climate and culture of the private school he’s no longer sure he wants to be a part of.
🧑🏾🦱
What a phenomenal YA debut. I could not put this one down. Gil is the kind of MC you root for from the beginning, incredibly likable and a hero in every sense of the word. This is a story about identity, but also about microaggressions and racism in places that claim to have none. I felt Gil’s anger at the injustices happening around him and know that these instances are not fictional and, sadly, happen all too often. Fans of Miles Morales by Jason Reynolds and All American Boys will love this new book out now!
CW: violence, racism, racial slur, classism
🤖
Gil is a senior living in Brooklyn with a father in Jamaica and a mother and grandmother here hoping Gil can seize new opportunities. When the chance to attend Augustin Prep in Manhattan comes up, Gil can’t help but be enticed by the STEM and robotics program. However when he’s jumped by the school’s golden boy on day one, it leads to a suspension and removal from the robotics team. The injustice of it all angers Gil, who turns to Sun Tsu to help center and guide him moving forward. Working with BIPOC students Gil tries to change the climate and culture of the private school he’s no longer sure he wants to be a part of.
🧑🏾🦱
What a phenomenal YA debut. I could not put this one down. Gil is the kind of MC you root for from the beginning, incredibly likable and a hero in every sense of the word. This is a story about identity, but also about microaggressions and racism in places that claim to have none. I felt Gil’s anger at the injustices happening around him and know that these instances are not fictional and, sadly, happen all too often. Fans of Miles Morales by Jason Reynolds and All American Boys will love this new book out now!
CW: violence, racism, racial slur, classism
March 30, 2023
Thank you to BookishFirst for giving me a free ARC!
4.5 stars rounded up to 5. I have no idea how the final edition will compare to the ARC, but I can't imagine it'll be too different given how complete even the ARC read. Straight off the bat, the most impressive thing about the story was how the author was able to juggle so many different aspects of Gil's life without it being hard to follow. As a result, it felt less like I was reading about a character in a book, and more like I was following the life of a real person. Going off of that, pretty much every single character had their own story to tell, and I loved the way Hooper illustrated the many ways racism and trauma color not just an individual's personality and behaviors, but also their values, their worldview, and their goals. As a person of color, this really spoke to me in ways I didn't even realize myself, and I found myself feeling so much anger, frustration, and despair at the injustice presented here that mirrors how it is in real life.
My only tiny criticisms are that the ending felt a little rushed, a few of the issues/situations could've been explored a little deeper, and I wasn't a fan of the insta-love (though that last one is just my personal preference).
4.5 stars rounded up to 5. I have no idea how the final edition will compare to the ARC, but I can't imagine it'll be too different given how complete even the ARC read. Straight off the bat, the most impressive thing about the story was how the author was able to juggle so many different aspects of Gil's life without it being hard to follow. As a result, it felt less like I was reading about a character in a book, and more like I was following the life of a real person. Going off of that, pretty much every single character had their own story to tell, and I loved the way Hooper illustrated the many ways racism and trauma color not just an individual's personality and behaviors, but also their values, their worldview, and their goals. As a person of color, this really spoke to me in ways I didn't even realize myself, and I found myself feeling so much anger, frustration, and despair at the injustice presented here that mirrors how it is in real life.
My only tiny criticisms are that the ending felt a little rushed, a few of the issues/situations could've been explored a little deeper, and I wasn't a fan of the insta-love (though that last one is just my personal preference).
May 6, 2023
Gil is a smart boy from Brooklyn with Jamaican roots. He has been accepted to go to a private school called Augustin Prep, where he can really shine in robotics. Within the first week at his new school, Gil gets into a physical fight and is put on probation.
He feels disappointed and feels like he is disappointing his mom, dad, grandma, and friends. Gil struggles to find his place in this school as it is predominantly white with very few POC. The dean doesn’t even listen to his side of the story after the physical fight. Gil is trying to figure out who he can and can’t trust at this school. He also is struggling at home with trying to keep up with his close friends.
How does Gil deal with racism at his new school? How does he get across to people that he was mistreated at school? How does he balance school life and personal life?
I enjoyed reading Gil’s journey, but it is not a light book. This book is pretty strong and will give you a better sense in racism and what POC have to deal with, especially when you are in a different socioeconomic status. Even though you can clearly see that Gil is struggling and feels alone, it’s really nice to see that he always has his grandma’s love and support.
He feels disappointed and feels like he is disappointing his mom, dad, grandma, and friends. Gil struggles to find his place in this school as it is predominantly white with very few POC. The dean doesn’t even listen to his side of the story after the physical fight. Gil is trying to figure out who he can and can’t trust at this school. He also is struggling at home with trying to keep up with his close friends.
How does Gil deal with racism at his new school? How does he get across to people that he was mistreated at school? How does he balance school life and personal life?
I enjoyed reading Gil’s journey, but it is not a light book. This book is pretty strong and will give you a better sense in racism and what POC have to deal with, especially when you are in a different socioeconomic status. Even though you can clearly see that Gil is struggling and feels alone, it’s really nice to see that he always has his grandma’s love and support.
March 12, 2023
Thank you to Bookishfirst and Penguin Teen for this ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
CW: racial slur, racism
Gil Powell never thought he would be on the train to Manhattan in a button down and khakis at the start of his senior year on his way to Augustin Prep, a nearly all white school on the Upper West Side. It is a world away from his prominently Caribbean neighborhood in Brooklyn. On his first day, he has an altercation with the school's star quarterback, leaving only Gil suspended. Gil uses Sun Tzu's The Art of War to wage his own war against the administration and make his and other Black students be heard. However, it comes at the cost of balance of his family and life in Brooklyn. Can he make his voice heard?
I actually cannot believe that this is a debut. It is a rich, well written book about a Black student's experience. I had to actually put the book down at several times because I was so angry at the school and the administration. It also has strong themes of family and chosen family. I think the pacing was a tiny bit off because it was slower in the beginning and then sped up really quickly towards the end.
CW: racial slur, racism
Gil Powell never thought he would be on the train to Manhattan in a button down and khakis at the start of his senior year on his way to Augustin Prep, a nearly all white school on the Upper West Side. It is a world away from his prominently Caribbean neighborhood in Brooklyn. On his first day, he has an altercation with the school's star quarterback, leaving only Gil suspended. Gil uses Sun Tzu's The Art of War to wage his own war against the administration and make his and other Black students be heard. However, it comes at the cost of balance of his family and life in Brooklyn. Can he make his voice heard?
I actually cannot believe that this is a debut. It is a rich, well written book about a Black student's experience. I had to actually put the book down at several times because I was so angry at the school and the administration. It also has strong themes of family and chosen family. I think the pacing was a tiny bit off because it was slower in the beginning and then sped up really quickly towards the end.
August 2, 2023
Thank you partner @cocoachapters and @penguinteen for the gifted copy True True by Don P. Hooper
Gil, a teen living in Brooklyn transfers from public school to a private academy for his senior year of high school to participate in the robotics program. Shortly after the semester begins, he is the victim of a racist attack by the school’s football players. The incident spirals and Gil learns about the systemic racism at the foundation of Augustin Prep’s legacy. He unites with other students to expose and fix the school’s culture
Gil and his family and friends were likable characters that readers will root for.
Gil is goal-oriented, cares for his family (including his beloved aging Granma) and tries to be a good friend to Rej and Stretch even when school activities become overwhelming. At the Always Persevere dojo, Gil is a leader and a “big bro” that Kenya and the younger martial arts students look up to.
I liked that Gil looked to a book for guidance. Reading The Art of War helped him learn to strategize and plan before reacting. I also appreciated that as an aspiring journalist, Tammy showed Gil and the other students that there is power in telling your story and there is power in community and allyship.
I understand that this is a YA book and the teens were the main characters, but I would have liked to know more about Ms. Willis, Ms. Column and Sensai. Maybe there could be another book about Augustin Prep? I also would have liked to see Black alumni become involved.
Reading this book with a teen in your life is a good way to discuss difficult topics.
Tough Topics: police brutality, overt racism, microaggressions, inequity in education, immigration, politics, allyship, dementia, stress
Gil, a teen living in Brooklyn transfers from public school to a private academy for his senior year of high school to participate in the robotics program. Shortly after the semester begins, he is the victim of a racist attack by the school’s football players. The incident spirals and Gil learns about the systemic racism at the foundation of Augustin Prep’s legacy. He unites with other students to expose and fix the school’s culture
Gil and his family and friends were likable characters that readers will root for.
Gil is goal-oriented, cares for his family (including his beloved aging Granma) and tries to be a good friend to Rej and Stretch even when school activities become overwhelming. At the Always Persevere dojo, Gil is a leader and a “big bro” that Kenya and the younger martial arts students look up to.
I liked that Gil looked to a book for guidance. Reading The Art of War helped him learn to strategize and plan before reacting. I also appreciated that as an aspiring journalist, Tammy showed Gil and the other students that there is power in telling your story and there is power in community and allyship.
I understand that this is a YA book and the teens were the main characters, but I would have liked to know more about Ms. Willis, Ms. Column and Sensai. Maybe there could be another book about Augustin Prep? I also would have liked to see Black alumni become involved.
Reading this book with a teen in your life is a good way to discuss difficult topics.
Tough Topics: police brutality, overt racism, microaggressions, inequity in education, immigration, politics, allyship, dementia, stress
March 26, 2024
Jamaican protagonist leaving his neighborhood school for better opportunities in a city prep school, while playing with a hand of life’s bad (and some good) cards. Patwa. Sun Tzus Art of War references. Marital arts. Black excellence. This was an incredible debut. Surprised that it’s not getting more recognition. READ THIS ONE!
August 4, 2023
This book is unapologetically real from the start. The main character Gil has a lot going on at home and a lot to look forward to in life. The hardships at home are relatable as they struggle with immigration, poverty, medical/mental concerns and racism. He is faced with the inconsistencies and inequalities of the school system as a minority in a predominantly white prep school. He struggles throughout the story to ensure he is making his voice heard. This is a great read for anyone and any age.
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC, this is a voluntary honest review.
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC, this is a voluntary honest review.
December 16, 2023
This book was a gifted copy and it was awesome. If you're looking for something Blackity Black and educational this is the one for you!
October 1, 2023
If you want to learn more about today's social issues, I believe True is a pretty good read. Although I initially had my doubts about the book's quality, as I read it, I grew to appreciate it more and more. I believe the author has done a fantastic job with the characters, creating a sense of realism and giving them traits that are easily recognizable. His characters, in my opinion, are relatable in some ways, and I feel that because he did such an excellent job with them, the story is simpler to get sucked into. The plot in the book moves along nicely, and the lead character develops quite a bit throughout the course of the story. The plot's setbacks were intentionally inserted by the author.
Read
August 1, 2023I wasn't that interested in this book at first because of the title and the cover. I honestly assumed it was historical fiction. It's more contemporary. The first look I got for this was long, about sixty pages, and the book itself is only like three hundred total. It felt like a fast and easy read, but it does address serious topics.
August 15, 2023
"Wars are either fought in secret or they're right in your face."
True True by Don Hooper was a gut pinching read for me because it shines a spotlight on how the education system is stacked against Black students, the Double burden of being a Black immigrant and how the idea of achieving the American Dream through hard work and education comes with a daily dose of violence, racism and microaggressions if youre a Black student. I was triggered by so many of the things that happened to Gil in this book because they were some of my same experiences, which soured me on the idea of attending college when I was a teenager.
I am, however, grateful that this book exists because it gives voice to the plight of Black American students and those of immigrant parents. Hooper's writing is raw, emotional and honest and it makes this one a book I will forever recommend because of it's importance to Black educational experiences. Thanks to @penguinteen @cocoachapters for the opportunity to share my 10 thoughts on this one.
🇯🇲 Privilege is not only a birthright but a way of life that is taught and modeled by white supremacist parents.
🇯🇲 Black students of immigrant parents carry a heavy burden to make their parents' dreams come true, as opposed to being able to have their own dreams.
🇯🇲 Black students are never safe in all white spaces and face daily racism.
🇯🇲 White women often name themselves as allies without actually doing the work of decolonization and continue to cross boundaries.
🇯🇲 Black people are never centered in diversity & inclusion efforts. HBCU tours are not offered.
🇯🇲 Black students' intelligence and achievements are always attributed to affirmative action.
🇯🇲 Black people's work, especially in STEM is often stolen and never credited.
🇯🇲 White supremacists will never give up any power and have no problem flexing their money and influence to ensure their children stay on top.
🇯🇲 Black students have the extra burden of not only representing themselves but their entire race, community, neighborhood, gender, etc.
🇯🇲 In order to achieve true equity in education, Black people need to be in positions of power and have decision making ability.
True True by Don Hooper was a gut pinching read for me because it shines a spotlight on how the education system is stacked against Black students, the Double burden of being a Black immigrant and how the idea of achieving the American Dream through hard work and education comes with a daily dose of violence, racism and microaggressions if youre a Black student. I was triggered by so many of the things that happened to Gil in this book because they were some of my same experiences, which soured me on the idea of attending college when I was a teenager.
I am, however, grateful that this book exists because it gives voice to the plight of Black American students and those of immigrant parents. Hooper's writing is raw, emotional and honest and it makes this one a book I will forever recommend because of it's importance to Black educational experiences. Thanks to @penguinteen @cocoachapters for the opportunity to share my 10 thoughts on this one.
🇯🇲 Privilege is not only a birthright but a way of life that is taught and modeled by white supremacist parents.
🇯🇲 Black students of immigrant parents carry a heavy burden to make their parents' dreams come true, as opposed to being able to have their own dreams.
🇯🇲 Black students are never safe in all white spaces and face daily racism.
🇯🇲 White women often name themselves as allies without actually doing the work of decolonization and continue to cross boundaries.
🇯🇲 Black people are never centered in diversity & inclusion efforts. HBCU tours are not offered.
🇯🇲 Black students' intelligence and achievements are always attributed to affirmative action.
🇯🇲 Black people's work, especially in STEM is often stolen and never credited.
🇯🇲 White supremacists will never give up any power and have no problem flexing their money and influence to ensure their children stay on top.
🇯🇲 Black students have the extra burden of not only representing themselves but their entire race, community, neighborhood, gender, etc.
🇯🇲 In order to achieve true equity in education, Black people need to be in positions of power and have decision making ability.
September 3, 2023
Absolutely must read book for fans of YA or anyone who has anything to do with education. Brilliant book.
August 13, 2023
Favorite read of the year!
August 17, 2023
3.5/5
If this book does nothing else, it's going to piss you off. Hooper brings readers a story of unapologetic student activism. A raw portrait of what it looks like when you carve space out for yourself in a world that doesn't make room for you. I enjoyed the authenticity of this story, appreciating the inclusion of Caribbean dialect and culture. This story touches on many vital issues, including systemic racism, immigration, educational resource scarcity, and academic violence. It also emphasizes the pressure and responsibility black boys take on at such a young age; having to grow up quickly and fight in a constant internal battle of not wanting to be seen as a failure or disappointment to their family. I loved the hilarious character banter throughout this story, as it was so organic. While I enjoyed this read, it was missing something for me. It took longer than I wanted to get into the story; however, once it did pick up, it kept my interest until the end. Additionally, while including Caribbean culture and language brought authenticity, I would've loved to have a glossary while reading to assist with some of the terminology. Overall, this was an enjoyable debut. If you're from Brooklyn, this story will feel like home.
If this book does nothing else, it's going to piss you off. Hooper brings readers a story of unapologetic student activism. A raw portrait of what it looks like when you carve space out for yourself in a world that doesn't make room for you. I enjoyed the authenticity of this story, appreciating the inclusion of Caribbean dialect and culture. This story touches on many vital issues, including systemic racism, immigration, educational resource scarcity, and academic violence. It also emphasizes the pressure and responsibility black boys take on at such a young age; having to grow up quickly and fight in a constant internal battle of not wanting to be seen as a failure or disappointment to their family. I loved the hilarious character banter throughout this story, as it was so organic. While I enjoyed this read, it was missing something for me. It took longer than I wanted to get into the story; however, once it did pick up, it kept my interest until the end. Additionally, while including Caribbean culture and language brought authenticity, I would've loved to have a glossary while reading to assist with some of the terminology. Overall, this was an enjoyable debut. If you're from Brooklyn, this story will feel like home.
December 31, 2024
Wow. This is a must read. So many layers that people cam resonate with.
August 1, 2023
Thank you to Penguin for this ARC
Powerful, moving, and all too relatable, True True follows Gil and his experience at his new mostly white prep school. Racism and getting jumped in his first week leads to probation for him, and of course no punishment for the popular white athletes who attacked him. He soon plots revenge against the admin based on The Art of War. When Gil finds out other Black students at the school have had similar experiences, he encourages them to speak out, but the consequences and response to them trying to get their voices and concerns heard soon takes over his life.
The moment I picked up True True, I could not stop reading! (Except to get snacks of course!) The writing style was so engaging, I was on the edge of my seat wondering what was going to happen next. I resonated so deeply with what Gil experienced, the frustration, the lack of being heard, the anger. At its heart while this is a book primarily about vengeance, I felt it was also about speaking other, and not letting your voice be silenced. Not taking the bread crumbs you are given with a smile on your face, but instead asking for equal treatment. (And acceptance!) Realising that certain situations are bigger than you, and to share your burdens with others. Not giving up no matter what, and daring to speak out because change doesn't come to those who are silent.
I loved the inclusion of robotics, I don't really know anything about the subject but it was really cool to see! I have seen clips of robotic competitions on Tiktok and now I want to go watch some more. I also thought Gil being a black belt and seeing a peek into Karate was so interesting! (Also really loved the symbolism!)
I am really glad that Gil had such a great support system, especially when he realised it was there. His Granma was so sweet, and I could feel the love for his family. The reality of his Dad not being present because he didn't want to get deported just gave me all the feelings. I could go on a many paragraph rant about how America treats immigrants, and the failure of our government in regards to the legalization process, but I'll spare you my rant.
If you have ever experienced microaggressions, racism, or your voice being ignored you will see so much of yourself in this. The microaggressions in this book were hard to read, and so accurate. How do you speak up about seemingly innocuous situations that others don't care/realise is harmful? The scene with Lydia claiming to be an "ally" had me immediately knowing what box to place her in. I was completely unsurprised by her actions after that reveal, and how she was just touching hair without consent.
The vibes and theme of this book reminded me of The Lesbiana's Guide to Catholic School, a favorite of mine. It's also incredibly disheartening to know that no matter where you live, you are not safe from this type of treatment. I have definitely seen a trend in recent years of authors writing books about race and what it is like to be at a predominantly white school, and I am 100000% on board with it. Do not read this on an empty stomach, all the food descriptions had me so hungry! I had to take a snack break multiple times.
I also love the cover, it matches the vibe of the book perfectly.
I read and review a lot of books, and if you are ever curious which ones you should for sure read, this is one of them. Seriously- read this book!
Powerful, moving, and all too relatable, True True follows Gil and his experience at his new mostly white prep school. Racism and getting jumped in his first week leads to probation for him, and of course no punishment for the popular white athletes who attacked him. He soon plots revenge against the admin based on The Art of War. When Gil finds out other Black students at the school have had similar experiences, he encourages them to speak out, but the consequences and response to them trying to get their voices and concerns heard soon takes over his life.
The moment I picked up True True, I could not stop reading! (Except to get snacks of course!) The writing style was so engaging, I was on the edge of my seat wondering what was going to happen next. I resonated so deeply with what Gil experienced, the frustration, the lack of being heard, the anger. At its heart while this is a book primarily about vengeance, I felt it was also about speaking other, and not letting your voice be silenced. Not taking the bread crumbs you are given with a smile on your face, but instead asking for equal treatment. (And acceptance!) Realising that certain situations are bigger than you, and to share your burdens with others. Not giving up no matter what, and daring to speak out because change doesn't come to those who are silent.
I loved the inclusion of robotics, I don't really know anything about the subject but it was really cool to see! I have seen clips of robotic competitions on Tiktok and now I want to go watch some more. I also thought Gil being a black belt and seeing a peek into Karate was so interesting! (Also really loved the symbolism!)
I am really glad that Gil had such a great support system, especially when he realised it was there. His Granma was so sweet, and I could feel the love for his family. The reality of his Dad not being present because he didn't want to get deported just gave me all the feelings. I could go on a many paragraph rant about how America treats immigrants, and the failure of our government in regards to the legalization process, but I'll spare you my rant.
If you have ever experienced microaggressions, racism, or your voice being ignored you will see so much of yourself in this. The microaggressions in this book were hard to read, and so accurate. How do you speak up about seemingly innocuous situations that others don't care/realise is harmful? The scene with Lydia claiming to be an "ally" had me immediately knowing what box to place her in. I was completely unsurprised by her actions after that reveal, and how she was just touching hair without consent.
The vibes and theme of this book reminded me of The Lesbiana's Guide to Catholic School, a favorite of mine. It's also incredibly disheartening to know that no matter where you live, you are not safe from this type of treatment. I have definitely seen a trend in recent years of authors writing books about race and what it is like to be at a predominantly white school, and I am 100000% on board with it. Do not read this on an empty stomach, all the food descriptions had me so hungry! I had to take a snack break multiple times.
I also love the cover, it matches the vibe of the book perfectly.
I read and review a lot of books, and if you are ever curious which ones you should for sure read, this is one of them. Seriously- read this book!
October 18, 2023
It’s been a long time since I’ve read a YA book where I wasn’t annoyed with the main character (and their MANY poor choices along the story arc). But Gil is smart: book smart AND street smart (maybe not so much “girl-smart”, but he can still be smooth when it counts). Instead of shooting himself in the foot “Ben Stiller” style, he’s making the best decisions in difficult or “no-win” situations. You immediately sympathize with his struggles and root for him.
Hooper doesn’t shy away from topics such as institutionalized racism, immigration laws splitting up families, the bliss and dangers of ignorance and neutrality, and the turmoil of sacrifices we have to make for the fights we decide to take on.
For Gil and his friends, they are faced with so many hard questions as young adults: where does the responsibility lie on young Black Americans to push back against institutions that fail them? Do they choose to “go with the flow” and not make waves? Do they ignore the suffering of others so they can protect themselves? How do they tell their stories without fear of retaliation? Their stories and struggles are relative to what so many BIPOC, LGBTQ+, women, and other groups of minorities have faced when deciding how to move forward in the institutions they are meant to thrive in.
As for Hooper’s style of writing, he creates a genuine and down-to-earth perspective from the character. You truly step into Gil’s mind and share in his experiences from the very first line. He paints some beautifully poetic imagery, but you never feel it’s not from Gil’s point of view(which, trust me— makes for some very entertaining observations). Hooper takes you straight into Gil’s situations and surroundings; setting you right in the middle of Brooklyn to the sights and sounds of parties in the street, smells of freshly made Jamaican meals , the hyper-awareness and flashes of pain in a fight...the struggles of awkward teenage moments. That last one is especially well written to where you aren’t left cringing, but with a smirk to the all-too-familiar feeling.
I wish I had this book as a teenager. It’s one every teenager should have— one we all should. Aside from deepening our empathy and understanding of the Black experience, this story can relate to anyone who has struggled to have their voices heard and wanted to triumph in their truths.
Hooper doesn’t shy away from topics such as institutionalized racism, immigration laws splitting up families, the bliss and dangers of ignorance and neutrality, and the turmoil of sacrifices we have to make for the fights we decide to take on.
For Gil and his friends, they are faced with so many hard questions as young adults: where does the responsibility lie on young Black Americans to push back against institutions that fail them? Do they choose to “go with the flow” and not make waves? Do they ignore the suffering of others so they can protect themselves? How do they tell their stories without fear of retaliation? Their stories and struggles are relative to what so many BIPOC, LGBTQ+, women, and other groups of minorities have faced when deciding how to move forward in the institutions they are meant to thrive in.
As for Hooper’s style of writing, he creates a genuine and down-to-earth perspective from the character. You truly step into Gil’s mind and share in his experiences from the very first line. He paints some beautifully poetic imagery, but you never feel it’s not from Gil’s point of view(which, trust me— makes for some very entertaining observations). Hooper takes you straight into Gil’s situations and surroundings; setting you right in the middle of Brooklyn to the sights and sounds of parties in the street, smells of freshly made Jamaican meals , the hyper-awareness and flashes of pain in a fight...the struggles of awkward teenage moments. That last one is especially well written to where you aren’t left cringing, but with a smirk to the all-too-familiar feeling.
I wish I had this book as a teenager. It’s one every teenager should have— one we all should. Aside from deepening our empathy and understanding of the Black experience, this story can relate to anyone who has struggled to have their voices heard and wanted to triumph in their truths.
July 31, 2023
It's not often I want to award 6 stars to a book, but this story deserves it. It's a debut novel. I have heard that first novels are highly biographical. This does, in places, feel very much as if it were lived, not merely imagined.
We have here a black young man, a teenager, a senior in high school. His family is from Jamaica. He lives in a highly Caribbean neighborhood in Brooklyn. He is transferring to a private school in Manhattan because they have a better STEM and robotics program than his old school. Check that. He's transferring because the new school has a robotics program. His old school barely has computers.
Of course, the new school is mostly white. They think they are welcoming and want these people of color in their school. After all, they have a handful of these people in every class. They have never checked if the Black and Asian students feel welcomed or wanted.
During his first week at school, our hero, Gil, is welcomed by three of the members of the football team. Gil is a black belt in an unspecified martial art, so, until he is thrown into a trophy case, Gil holds his own. When the school Dean shows up, Gil is surprised to find out he started the fight and will be suspended for a week and put on probation for a month, barred from all clubs including the robotics club, the reason he was requited for the school.
There is a lot going on in Gil's life. This is the year he learns time is a limited thing. He can't keep doing all the things he used to do and add the things his new high school needs him to do while trying to cope with the subtle microaggressions life in a mostly white space provides.
I will say I am white. I live in those white spaces. They are my normal. I would hope I am really welcoming to those who have had a different life experience. This story reminds me some folk want to share those places for reasons of their own. They didn't come to "educate" me or share their world. It is something to remember.
I highly recommend this book to one and all.
I received the copy of this book from the publisher through a website contest that I read for for this review.
Read this book. You'll like it. I love it.
We have here a black young man, a teenager, a senior in high school. His family is from Jamaica. He lives in a highly Caribbean neighborhood in Brooklyn. He is transferring to a private school in Manhattan because they have a better STEM and robotics program than his old school. Check that. He's transferring because the new school has a robotics program. His old school barely has computers.
Of course, the new school is mostly white. They think they are welcoming and want these people of color in their school. After all, they have a handful of these people in every class. They have never checked if the Black and Asian students feel welcomed or wanted.
During his first week at school, our hero, Gil, is welcomed by three of the members of the football team. Gil is a black belt in an unspecified martial art, so, until he is thrown into a trophy case, Gil holds his own. When the school Dean shows up, Gil is surprised to find out he started the fight and will be suspended for a week and put on probation for a month, barred from all clubs including the robotics club, the reason he was requited for the school.
There is a lot going on in Gil's life. This is the year he learns time is a limited thing. He can't keep doing all the things he used to do and add the things his new high school needs him to do while trying to cope with the subtle microaggressions life in a mostly white space provides.
I will say I am white. I live in those white spaces. They are my normal. I would hope I am really welcoming to those who have had a different life experience. This story reminds me some folk want to share those places for reasons of their own. They didn't come to "educate" me or share their world. It is something to remember.
I highly recommend this book to one and all.
I received the copy of this book from the publisher through a website contest that I read for for this review.
Read this book. You'll like it. I love it.
July 5, 2023
True, True follows Gil, a 17-year-old Black student as he starts his senior year at an elite, mostly white prep school in Manhattan, commuting in from his Caribbean neighborhood in Brooklyn. Gil is dealing with a lot. His father is in Jamaica trying to work on immigration documents to be able to live in the US and his Granma has early-stage dementia. Gil is excited about the academic opportunities at Augustin Prep, especially the school's well-funded robotics team. He is blindsided when he is taunted with a racist slur and attacked by three of the school's football players. He discovers that institutionalized racism runs deep at the school when he is the only one suspended. He looks to Sun Tzu's The Art of War for guidance in fighting racism at Augustin.
Gil organizes with the other black students who have also encountered everything from microaggressions to overt racism at Augustin. He becomes overwhelmed juggling this fight with his academics, old friends from Brooklyn, new friends, and family commitments and must learn to prioritize and communicate better with those he cares about. Gil is a likeable character who feels very real, because he sometimes makes poor choices. He grows considerably throughout the course of the story. He realizes that even The Art of War doesn't have all the answers and must forge his own path. True True is often difficult to read because of the appalling racism encountered by Gil and the other students of color. True True is a well-written, immersive, relevant and powerful YA contemporary novel. Thank you to BookishFirst for an ARC to review.
Gil organizes with the other black students who have also encountered everything from microaggressions to overt racism at Augustin. He becomes overwhelmed juggling this fight with his academics, old friends from Brooklyn, new friends, and family commitments and must learn to prioritize and communicate better with those he cares about. Gil is a likeable character who feels very real, because he sometimes makes poor choices. He grows considerably throughout the course of the story. He realizes that even The Art of War doesn't have all the answers and must forge his own path. True True is often difficult to read because of the appalling racism encountered by Gil and the other students of color. True True is a well-written, immersive, relevant and powerful YA contemporary novel. Thank you to BookishFirst for an ARC to review.
July 30, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
𝙄𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙥𝙤𝙬𝙚𝙧𝙛𝙪𝙡 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙛𝙖𝙨𝙩-𝙥𝙖𝙘𝙚𝙙 𝙔𝘼 𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙢𝙥𝙤𝙧𝙖𝙧𝙮 𝙙𝙚𝙗𝙪𝙩, 𝙖 𝘽𝙡𝙖𝙘𝙠 𝙩𝙚𝙚𝙣 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝘽𝙧𝙤𝙤𝙠𝙡𝙮𝙣 𝙨𝙩𝙧𝙪𝙜𝙜𝙡𝙚𝙨 𝙩𝙤 𝙛𝙞𝙩 𝙞𝙣 𝙖𝙩 𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙖𝙡𝙢𝙤𝙨𝙩 𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙧𝙚𝙡𝙮-𝙬𝙝𝙞𝙩𝙚 𝙈𝙖𝙣𝙝𝙖𝙩𝙩𝙖𝙣 𝙥𝙧𝙚𝙥 𝙨𝙘𝙝𝙤𝙤𝙡, 𝙧𝙚𝙨𝙪𝙡𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙞𝙣 𝙖 𝙛𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙖 𝙥𝙡𝙖𝙣 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙫𝙚𝙣𝙜𝙚𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙚.
I was so excited when I received an early copy of this book. It was a bit out of my usual reading genre, but it sounded so interesting and I couldn’t wait to dive into it.
Gil is a new student - a black teen in an almost entirely-white prep school in Manhattan - and I loved how flawed his character was written.
There’s a lot of racism in this book, but I really think the author handled it in such a great way. It is a YA contemporary so it did feel too juvenile at times, but I wholeheartedly think a teen reader will absolutely love this story.
I was completely captivated from early on and wanted to see where the story went. I loved the feeling it gave and the eye-opening moments. There were times when it was very difficult to read, especially with the racism and immigration talk.
I’m honestly impressed with this being a debut. I think it was so well written and the story definitely had me hooked. There’s a bigger meaning to this book, and I think the author displayed that perfectly.
The whole time I just wanted to root for Gil so badly, it broke my heart seeing his grandmother’s stages of dementia and his father's struggle with immigration in Jamaica. It was heartbreaking seeing how excited he was to start his senior year, only to be met with crappy people who made that experience difficult.
I honestly really enjoyed this book. I think it’s the perfect recommendation for a teen reader, or even an adult wanting to read this. It was fun and enjoyable, I can’t wait to read more by this author.
Thank you so much NetGalley and Penguin Teen for the review eARC and PRH Audio for the ALC in exchange for my honest review!
•𝗧𝗪/𝗖𝗪: Racial Slurs and Racism
𝙄𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙥𝙤𝙬𝙚𝙧𝙛𝙪𝙡 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙛𝙖𝙨𝙩-𝙥𝙖𝙘𝙚𝙙 𝙔𝘼 𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙢𝙥𝙤𝙧𝙖𝙧𝙮 𝙙𝙚𝙗𝙪𝙩, 𝙖 𝘽𝙡𝙖𝙘𝙠 𝙩𝙚𝙚𝙣 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝘽𝙧𝙤𝙤𝙠𝙡𝙮𝙣 𝙨𝙩𝙧𝙪𝙜𝙜𝙡𝙚𝙨 𝙩𝙤 𝙛𝙞𝙩 𝙞𝙣 𝙖𝙩 𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙖𝙡𝙢𝙤𝙨𝙩 𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙧𝙚𝙡𝙮-𝙬𝙝𝙞𝙩𝙚 𝙈𝙖𝙣𝙝𝙖𝙩𝙩𝙖𝙣 𝙥𝙧𝙚𝙥 𝙨𝙘𝙝𝙤𝙤𝙡, 𝙧𝙚𝙨𝙪𝙡𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙞𝙣 𝙖 𝙛𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙖 𝙥𝙡𝙖𝙣 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙫𝙚𝙣𝙜𝙚𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙚.
I was so excited when I received an early copy of this book. It was a bit out of my usual reading genre, but it sounded so interesting and I couldn’t wait to dive into it.
Gil is a new student - a black teen in an almost entirely-white prep school in Manhattan - and I loved how flawed his character was written.
There’s a lot of racism in this book, but I really think the author handled it in such a great way. It is a YA contemporary so it did feel too juvenile at times, but I wholeheartedly think a teen reader will absolutely love this story.
I was completely captivated from early on and wanted to see where the story went. I loved the feeling it gave and the eye-opening moments. There were times when it was very difficult to read, especially with the racism and immigration talk.
I’m honestly impressed with this being a debut. I think it was so well written and the story definitely had me hooked. There’s a bigger meaning to this book, and I think the author displayed that perfectly.
The whole time I just wanted to root for Gil so badly, it broke my heart seeing his grandmother’s stages of dementia and his father's struggle with immigration in Jamaica. It was heartbreaking seeing how excited he was to start his senior year, only to be met with crappy people who made that experience difficult.
I honestly really enjoyed this book. I think it’s the perfect recommendation for a teen reader, or even an adult wanting to read this. It was fun and enjoyable, I can’t wait to read more by this author.
Thank you so much NetGalley and Penguin Teen for the review eARC and PRH Audio for the ALC in exchange for my honest review!
•𝗧𝗪/𝗖𝗪: Racial Slurs and Racism
May 16, 2023
Gil, a Black teen, transfers from his Brooklyn high school to a primarily white Manhattan prep school for senior year. After an incident with a racist student results in Gil being suspended, he enlists other Black students to wage war against the racist school administration, students, and parents in an effort to finally be heard. Can Gil balance his home life and school life while fighting this battle?
TRUE TRUE was an emotionally charged YA novel that kept me turning pages. I felt angry throughout much of the book as I followed Gil’s journey as he, his friends, and classmates regularly dealt with racism. I wanted so badly for them to be successful in having their voices heard as no one should be treated that way. The character development for Gil was great. I enjoyed seeing how he evolved. He had flaws that created challenges, but he learned things about himself as he grew. I liked how Gil’s reading of Sun Tzu’s ‘The Art of War’ was wrapped into the plot. The author did a great job of addressing some important topics such as racism and education systems. Overall, the characters and the plot felt realistic. Though targeted for a young adult audience, TRUE TRUE could be enjoyed by a wider age range of readers.
I really liked TRUE TRUE and would highly recommend it. It was a great debut novel. I look forward to reading future works from the author.
Thank you to Nancy Paulsen Books for the giveaway ARC.
TRUE TRUE was an emotionally charged YA novel that kept me turning pages. I felt angry throughout much of the book as I followed Gil’s journey as he, his friends, and classmates regularly dealt with racism. I wanted so badly for them to be successful in having their voices heard as no one should be treated that way. The character development for Gil was great. I enjoyed seeing how he evolved. He had flaws that created challenges, but he learned things about himself as he grew. I liked how Gil’s reading of Sun Tzu’s ‘The Art of War’ was wrapped into the plot. The author did a great job of addressing some important topics such as racism and education systems. Overall, the characters and the plot felt realistic. Though targeted for a young adult audience, TRUE TRUE could be enjoyed by a wider age range of readers.
I really liked TRUE TRUE and would highly recommend it. It was a great debut novel. I look forward to reading future works from the author.
Thank you to Nancy Paulsen Books for the giveaway ARC.
March 26, 2023
Don P. Hooper's debut novel, "True True", is a well-written and culturally diverse YA novel. Even though I no longer fall into the YA demographic, I found the plot to be interesting and looked forward to continuing the story as time allowed. I appreciated the fact that although the novel is fiction, the characters, plot and setting are all pretty believable.
As a teacher with close to 20 years of teaching experience (inner city, suburban, private and public school settings), I'm always looking for culturally diverse, age-appropriate books that I can add to my classroom library. This would also be a great novel to add to your middle school/high school literacy class. A lot of discussion could take place on the students'(of all backgrounds and races) thoughts and feelings of what takes place in "True True".
The only suggestion that I have is that I wish more insight and dialogue were given to the plot when Gil and Tammy were required to meet with President and Board of Trustees of Augustin Prep in chapter 42.
I'm looking forward to reading additional novels My Mr. Hooper. Perhaps a sequel to "True True"?
As a teacher with close to 20 years of teaching experience (inner city, suburban, private and public school settings), I'm always looking for culturally diverse, age-appropriate books that I can add to my classroom library. This would also be a great novel to add to your middle school/high school literacy class. A lot of discussion could take place on the students'(of all backgrounds and races) thoughts and feelings of what takes place in "True True".
The only suggestion that I have is that I wish more insight and dialogue were given to the plot when Gil and Tammy were required to meet with President and Board of Trustees of Augustin Prep in chapter 42.
I'm looking forward to reading additional novels My Mr. Hooper. Perhaps a sequel to "True True"?
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