Jason Reynolds: Always One of My Top Favorite Authors, and Here's Why ...

Jason Reynolds, internationally acclaimed and award-winning author of middle-grade and young-adult books.

Last night, I finished reading All American Boys by Jason Reynolds and Brendan Kiely. A narrative that explores police brutality and the young lives torn between loyalties, family & school pressures, and taking action that you feel is the right way in your heart, soul, and mind.

I'm never disappointed when I finish a Jason Reynolds' book. Instead, I'm immersed in the emotional tangles that tighten and knot throughout the narrative while the characters navigate their fragile world, feeling every fracture and crack in their bones. I'm in awe of the way the stories unfold. The way Jason opens a narrowing door (after door, after door,) giving readers a focused view of the unrelenting, prejudiced attitudes human beings tend to unlock repeatedly from the deepest recesses of their hearts and minds. To strike down another person is a horrible feeling. I can't help but ask, repeatedly, Why is it so difficult to be kind to one another?

On a side note, Captain Picard of the Star Trek Enterprise stated the most relevant line that beats in my heart every day. He said, "The acquisition of wealth is no longer the driving force in our lives. We work to better ourselves and the rest of humanity."

One day, I tell myself. One day soon Picard's statement will be etched as our North Star.

To date, I've read four of Jason Reynolds' books:

• Ghost

• As Brave As You Are

• Long Way Down

• All American Boys

Next on the list, Look Both Ways.

I hope to meet Jason Reynolds one day soon. I've heard him speak at a virtual event. He's wonderful and true-hearted. A genuine soul. He's stated, "I write love letters to children ... acknowledgement of their existence, acknowledgement of their concerns ... that you are an important and integral part of our world."

Here's a link to a nice intro video on YouTube: Jason Reynolds - 2024 MacArthur Fellow

Jason Reynolds helps us find that light inside of us and in our world that wants to glow bright. I can't thank him enough for his stories that sing to my soul. I hope more readers will enjoy his books and know this world is ours to share, together.

Everyday is a good day reading Jason Reynolds.