One-line summary:

“On the Come Up” is a powerful coming-of-age story that explores the challenges and triumphs of a young aspiring rapper in a racially divided community.

Discovering Her Voice

Bri Jackson, a sixteen-year-old girl from the fictional neighborhood of Garden Heights, dreams of becoming a successful rapper like her late father, Lawless. She sees music as her ticket out of poverty and a way to provide for her struggling family. Bri’s passion for music and her desire to be heard are the driving forces behind her journey in “On the Come Up.”

Facing numerous obstacles, including racial profiling, poverty, and the pressure to conform, Bri must navigate her way through a world that often tries to silence her. As she pursues her dreams, Bri grapples with the question of whether she should compromise her values and authenticity to achieve success or stay true to herself and her art.

A Tale of Resilience and Identity

As Bri faces setbacks and challenges, she learns the importance of resilience and staying true to her identity. She confronts the stereotypes and prejudices that exist in her community and the music industry, refusing to let them define her. Through her journey, Bri discovers her own voice and the power it holds to inspire and effect change.

The book also explores the theme of identity, as Bri struggles with the expectations placed upon her by others. She grapples with the pressure to conform to societal norms and the weight of her father’s legacy. Ultimately, Bri learns that her true strength lies in embracing her unique identity and using her voice to tell her own story.

A Community Divided

“On the Come Up” delves into the complex dynamics of Garden Heights, a community divided by racial tensions and economic disparities. The book sheds light on the systemic issues that contribute to the cycle of poverty and violence in marginalized neighborhoods. Through Bri’s experiences, readers gain insight into the challenges faced by communities like Garden Heights and the resilience of its residents.

Key takeaways from “On the Come Up”:

• Resilience and staying true to oneself are essential in the pursuit of dreams.
• Identity should not be defined by societal expectations or stereotypes.
• Systemic issues contribute to the challenges faced by marginalized communities.

“It’s about control. It’s about power. It’s about proving that a ghetto chick from the hood can make it. It’s about putting Garden Heights on the map, and more than that, it’s about getting paid.” – Angie Thomas, On the Come Up

In conclusion, “On the Come Up” is a compelling and thought-provoking novel that explores themes of resilience, identity, and the power of one’s voice. Through Bri’s journey, readers are reminded of the importance of staying true to oneself and the impact that can be made by challenging societal norms. Angie Thomas once again delivers a powerful narrative that resonates with readers of all backgrounds.