The Hate U Give

by Angie Thomas
The Hate U Give cover
Good Books rating 4.56
Young Adult (YA)
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Format • £8.54
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  • ID: 2930
  • Added: 2025-10-16
  • Updated: 2026-01-05
  • ISBN: 9781406389463
  • Publisher: HarperCollins
  • Published: 2018-11-01
  • Formats: 8
  • Reviews: 4

The Hate U Give is a powerful and gripping YA novel inspired by the Black Lives Matter movement. It tells the story of Starr Carter, a sixteen-year-old girl who lives in two worlds: the poor neighborhood where she was born and raised, and her posh high school in the suburbs. The uneasy balance between these two worlds is shattered when Starr witnesses the fatal shooting of her unarmed best friend, Khalil, by a police officer. Now, Starr must find her voice and stand up for what's right, even if it means putting her own life at risk. This hardback collector's edition includes an essay by the author, the meanings behind the names in the book, and an excerpt from On the Come Up.

Reviews
Book Club Chat · 2020-06-06
essential 4.50

This book is a must-read, it's powerful and relevant to current times. It's a story that everyone should experience.

This book is a must-read, it's powerful and relevant to current times. It's a story that everyone should experience. The reviewer highlights the book's impact and its ability to resonate with readers. They emphasize the importance of the story in today's society and the emotional journey it takes the reader on.

Quick quotes

    It's a powerful story that is completely relevant to our times.

    It's one of those books you must read.

    It's a story that everyone should experience.

The Strawberry Post · 2019-08-03
recommended 4.50

This book is highly recommended and should be taught in schools. While some cultural aspects may be unfamiliar, the story's relevance and impact are undeniable.

The reviewer highly recommends 'The Hate U Give' and believes it should be a staple in school curricula. They acknowledge that some cultural elements may be new to certain readers, but the story's relevance and emotional impact make it a must-read. The reviewer was particularly moved by the book's exploration of social justice and the protagonist's journey. They found the characters to be well-crafted and the narrative to be both engaging and educational. The story's ability to evoke strong emotions and provoke thought is highly praised.

Quick quotes

    The Hate U Give is definitely a book I'd recommend and should probably be a book taught at schools.

    Some of the culture is a little different but it's a story that everyone should read.

    It's a powerful story that is completely relevant to our times.

Amy's Bookshelf · 2019-08-01
powerful 4.50

The writing is engaging from the start, and Starr is a relatable protagonist with authentic relationships. The book effectively captures the complexities of the contemporary black experience.

This reviewer found the writing to be immediately engaging and praised Starr as a realistic and compelling protagonist. They appreciated the authenticity of her relationships and the way the book delves into the contemporary black experience in America. The reviewer highlights the emotional impact of the story, noting that it tackles important themes with sensitivity and depth. They believe the book is a must-read for its powerful narrative and relevant social commentary.

Quick quotes

    Thomas' writing was enjoyable from the get-go and I loved Starr as a protagonist – she was realistic, as were her relationships with the other characters.

    The book effectively captures the complexities of the contemporary black experience.

    It's a powerful story that will stay with you long after you've finished reading.

The Guardian · Alex Wheatle · 2017-04-08
outstanding 4.75

This is an outstanding debut novel that offers profound insights into the black experience in America. The reviewer found it to be one of the most impactful books on the subject they have read.

Alex Wheatle describes 'The Hate U Give' as an outstanding debut novel that provides deep insights into the contemporary black experience in America. They were particularly struck by how the book addresses issues of racism and police brutality with both sensitivity and power. The reviewer believes that this book is essential reading for understanding the current social and political climate in America. They were moved by the emotional depth and the way the story balances personal and societal issues.

Quick quotes

    The Hate U Give is an outstanding debut novel and says more about the contemporary black experience in America than any book I have read for a long time.

    It is a powerful and necessary story that should be read by everyone.

    The characters are well-developed and the narrative is both compelling and thought-provoking.

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