The Hate U Give

by Angie Thomas
The Hate U Give cover
Good Books rating 4.58
Young Adult (YA)
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Format • £8.54
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  • ID: 2930
  • Added: 2025-10-16
  • Updated: 2025-10-16
  • ISBN: 9780062498557
  • Publisher: HarperCollins
  • Published: 2017-02-28
  • Formats: 3
  • Reviews: 3

The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas is a powerful and timely novel that has garnered widespread acclaim, including multiple awards and starred reviews. The story follows Starr Carter, a sixteen-year-old girl who lives in two worlds: the poor neighborhood of Garden Heights and the affluent suburban prep school she attends. This delicate balance is disrupted when Starr witnesses the fatal shooting of her childhood best friend, Khalil, by a police officer. Khalil was unarmed, and his death quickly becomes a national headline, sparking protests and intense media scrutiny. As the only witness, Starr must decide whether to speak out about what she saw, knowing that her words could either bring justice or put her life in danger. The novel explores themes of race, identity, and the complexities of growing up in a society fraught with inequality. Starr's journey is one of courage and resilience as she grapples with the trauma of her friend's death and the societal pressures that come with being a young black woman. The Hate U Give is a poignant and necessary story that resonates deeply with contemporary issues, making it a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the broader implications of systemic racism and police brutality.

Reviews
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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