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The Black Girls Left Standing
Sixteen-year-old Beau Willet has dreams of being an artist and one day leaving the Chicago projects she's grown up in. But after her older sister, Katia, is killed by an off-duty police officer, Beau knows she has to clear her sister's name by finding the only witness to the murder; Katia's no-good boyfriend, Jordan, who has gone missing. If she doesn't find him and tell the world what really happened, Katia's death will be ignored, like the deaths of so many other Black women who are wrongfully killed.
With the help of her friend, Sonnet, Beau sets up a Twitter account to gather anonymous tips. But the more that Beau finds out about her sister's death, the more danger she finds herself in. And with a new relationship developing with her childhood friend, Champion, and the struggle to keep her family together, Beau is soon in way over her head. How much is she willing to risk to clear her sister's name and make sure she's not forgotten?
With the help of her friend, Sonnet, Beau sets up a Twitter account to gather anonymous tips. But the more that Beau finds out about her sister's death, the more danger she finds herself in. And with a new relationship developing with her childhood friend, Champion, and the struggle to keep her family together, Beau is soon in way over her head. How much is she willing to risk to clear her sister's name and make sure she's not forgotten?
336 pages, Hardcover
First published June 28, 2022
About the author
Juliana Goodman
5 books50 followersJuliana Goodman was born and raised in Blue Island, Illinois. She received her B.A. in English Literature from Western Illinois University in 2014 and her MFA in Fiction Writing in 2017 from Indiana. Juliana has received several awards and scholarships for her writing and was a 2014 Jack Kent Cooke Graduate Arts Award Finalist. She’s had work published in Sigma Tau Delta’s Rectangle, Blackberry: a Magazine and Fiyah Literary Magazine. In her free time, Juliana enjoys watching horror films, reading the latest young adult novels and hanging out with her dog, Artie, and her cat, Pickle. She is a 2019/2020 Tulsa Artist Fellow.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
March 6, 2024
I read this book in the better part of a day, and at the time that I spent reading it I really did have a good time. That almost feels wrong given the subject matter, but it's one of the unsung gems of YA in my opinion.
Here we are following Beau as her family is reeling from the loss of her elder sister, Katia. The book opens with her funeral and as the book goes on we get flashbacks to better understand the relationship between the sisters. In the present Beau is convinced that if she can find her sister's boyfriend, Jordan, then the cop who killed her sister will be brought to justice.
Of course it's not that easy, and Beau is forced to confront that. Of course in the present the more that comes out about her sister the more it looks like her reputation will be dragged through the mud, something Beau isn't really ready to go through.
I appreciated how rooted in reality this felt. How each of these characters felt like they were genuine people that exist. That they could exist outside the lens that Jordan knew them in. Each of the characters in this book were juggling a lot of emotions about what happened with Katia, namely Beau's mother who became bedbound with grif while her good for nothing husband continued to be good for nothing.
There were a couple of sideplots in this around Beau's school that I appreciated and how they were all able to tie into the larger plot and not have it feel unserious that I particularly appreciated. Overall if you haven't already I do think that this one is worth the read.
Here we are following Beau as her family is reeling from the loss of her elder sister, Katia. The book opens with her funeral and as the book goes on we get flashbacks to better understand the relationship between the sisters. In the present Beau is convinced that if she can find her sister's boyfriend, Jordan, then the cop who killed her sister will be brought to justice.
Of course it's not that easy, and Beau is forced to confront that. Of course in the present the more that comes out about her sister the more it looks like her reputation will be dragged through the mud, something Beau isn't really ready to go through.
I appreciated how rooted in reality this felt. How each of these characters felt like they were genuine people that exist. That they could exist outside the lens that Jordan knew them in. Each of the characters in this book were juggling a lot of emotions about what happened with Katia, namely Beau's mother who became bedbound with grif while her good for nothing husband continued to be good for nothing.
There were a couple of sideplots in this around Beau's school that I appreciated and how they were all able to tie into the larger plot and not have it feel unserious that I particularly appreciated. Overall if you haven't already I do think that this one is worth the read.
August 25, 2024
4.5 rounded up
Really enjoyed the audiobook. The narration kept me engaged throughout the story.
I felt so sad for Beau and Katia 😭 there were times that this story had me feeling angry, hopeful, frustrated, nervous and excited.
There’s lots of lessons to be learned and I could appreciate the narrative of a young girl growing up in the projects with a desire for so much more.
Really enjoyed the audiobook. The narration kept me engaged throughout the story.
I felt so sad for Beau and Katia 😭 there were times that this story had me feeling angry, hopeful, frustrated, nervous and excited.
There’s lots of lessons to be learned and I could appreciate the narrative of a young girl growing up in the projects with a desire for so much more.
June 19, 2022
This is a riveting story about a girl on a mission to clear her sister’s name after she’s murdered by an off-duty police officer who accuses her of breaking and entering. The reader (listener) accompanies Beau, our main character on her investigative journey. Despite there being the main goal of clearing her sister Katia’s name, we see Beau also trying to navigate life as a high school student, daughter and friend.
Despite the family relationship not being perfect, I love the representation of both parents being present in the black household. I enjoyed the interesting twist as well.
I did get somewhat bored with some moments of whining and self-pity but I suppose that is what one would expect from a teenager. The story also showcased the different parent-child dynamics that can, and often do, exist in our society.
At the end, we see our MC learning lessons about life and herself which is always a good experience for any character to go through.
Ariel Blake as the narrator did an excellent job in bringing out the emotions of the characters, hence bringing them to life as a listener.
Thanks to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for providing me with an ALC in exchange for my honest review.
Despite the family relationship not being perfect, I love the representation of both parents being present in the black household. I enjoyed the interesting twist as well.
I did get somewhat bored with some moments of whining and self-pity but I suppose that is what one would expect from a teenager. The story also showcased the different parent-child dynamics that can, and often do, exist in our society.
At the end, we see our MC learning lessons about life and herself which is always a good experience for any character to go through.
Ariel Blake as the narrator did an excellent job in bringing out the emotions of the characters, hence bringing them to life as a listener.
Thanks to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for providing me with an ALC in exchange for my honest review.
September 8, 2024
Growing up in the Chicago projects is a daily struggle. For Beau she’s counting down the days until the grit and grime of the city is far behind her. At 16 years old she is a talented artist and is hoping those skills with set her free from poverty and struggle. Unfortunately her world crumbles underneath her when her big sister is gunned down by a police officer and justice for her is clearly non existent.
Taking matters into her own hands, Beau decided to find out the truth but quickly realizes that she may have bitten off more than she can chew. Those that she thought were in her corner aren’t and even her home life is in shambles as her parents grieve the only way they know how.
The weight of the world is heavy on Beau’s shoulders but the love for her sister won’t allow her to give up.
This YA story really touched my heart. Tears were shed and my heart broke for literally everyone in this story in one way or another.
Everyone needs a sister like Beau 💙💜🖤
Taking matters into her own hands, Beau decided to find out the truth but quickly realizes that she may have bitten off more than she can chew. Those that she thought were in her corner aren’t and even her home life is in shambles as her parents grieve the only way they know how.
The weight of the world is heavy on Beau’s shoulders but the love for her sister won’t allow her to give up.
This YA story really touched my heart. Tears were shed and my heart broke for literally everyone in this story in one way or another.
Everyone needs a sister like Beau 💙💜🖤
July 4, 2022
My last read of June and I still have no idea what the heck happened with this book.
July 1, 2022
The black girls left standing is a beautiful portrayal of the aftermath of police brutality. The poignant displays of grief and changed family dynamics nearly had me on my knees. This book gets it: the revenge fantasies, the anger, the strained familial and peer relationships. Even through the lighter portions of this book there is always an undercurrent of something missing…someONE missing. I highly recommend this book (but please check triggers before diving in)
November 2, 2022
impactful
This was not a light and fluffy read. This book took the reader inside the life of a girl growing up feeling despair, hopelessness, and rage. The empathy and sadness settled deep in my soul.
I wanted to hear the truth and see the outcome. The story is about living in poverty, growing up African American, friendships, art, and hope. At first Beau, started to annoy me with her hopelessness and helplessness, but then the realization of why she felt that way hit me and I only felt compassion for her. Beau wasn’t perfect, she made a lot of mistakes, but she has a huge heart and fights for a voice to be heard and to be seen. This book was a powerful read and I am glad to have read it.
This was not a light and fluffy read. This book took the reader inside the life of a girl growing up feeling despair, hopelessness, and rage. The empathy and sadness settled deep in my soul.
I wanted to hear the truth and see the outcome. The story is about living in poverty, growing up African American, friendships, art, and hope. At first Beau, started to annoy me with her hopelessness and helplessness, but then the realization of why she felt that way hit me and I only felt compassion for her. Beau wasn’t perfect, she made a lot of mistakes, but she has a huge heart and fights for a voice to be heard and to be seen. This book was a powerful read and I am glad to have read it.
Want to read
June 12, 2020June 11, 2020: This ownvoices debut novel has just been announced and who isn't excited for an emotional mystery that revolves around a Black girl trying to find what happened on the night of her older sister's death—what the white cop who killed her by claiming she was breaking into his house is really hiding. AHHH!
July 5, 2022
3.5 stars
July 13, 2022
When Beau's sister, Katia, is killed by an off-duty police officer and isn't given the justice or attention she deserves, Beau takes matters into her own hands by investigating what her sister was really up to the night she died to clear Katia's name, while juggling a difficult home life with an absentee father and a mother so lost in her grief that Beau is left to hold the entire family together.
When I read the synopsis for this book, I was immediately hooked and intrigued to follow along with Beau's story. Unfortunately, my expectations may have been a little too high, and this book ultimately didn't quite reach them.
I did love the use of flashbacks in this book and that those flashbacks allowed us to explore Katia and Beau's relationship and get to know Katia as a character. As a younger sister myself, I really connected with Beau in those moments of looking up to her older sister and wanting to hang out with her and be just like her, and I definitely connected to seeing how your relationship with your sister changes as you get older. That was probably my favorite part of the story.
I did also appreciate how flawed the characters all were; I love seeing a cast of characters that each has their own unique flaws. It makes them relatable, but you can still root for them, which is important.
Unfortunately, there were a lot of flaws with this story. The pacing was incredibly slow for at least the first half of the book; it definitely took too long for the story to get on its feet with Beau trying to figure out what happened with her sister.
There was also a LOT of telling instead of showing, which as we know, is one of my biggest pet peeves. It's part of what contributed to the off pacing, in my opinion, how we'd speed through certain moments with a lot of telling instead of letting those scenes breathe, and then other scenes would be dragged out unnecessarily. And despite this being a "mystery," I predicted almost every plot point that occurred long before it happened, which did take some of the fun out of it; I wish there had been more actual mystery involved to help keep the reader invested.
Finally, the ending was resolved way too easily; the characters' relationships were way too easily repaired and everything was wrapped into almost too neat of a bow. Not to say these characters didn't deserve a happy ending, I was happy to see Beau get a happy ending, but I just wish it had felt more earned instead of feeling forced as an easy way to wrap up the story.
While there were aspects of this story that I enjoyed, in the end, it just wasn't what I'd hoped for from this story after reading the synopsis.
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
When I read the synopsis for this book, I was immediately hooked and intrigued to follow along with Beau's story. Unfortunately, my expectations may have been a little too high, and this book ultimately didn't quite reach them.
I did love the use of flashbacks in this book and that those flashbacks allowed us to explore Katia and Beau's relationship and get to know Katia as a character. As a younger sister myself, I really connected with Beau in those moments of looking up to her older sister and wanting to hang out with her and be just like her, and I definitely connected to seeing how your relationship with your sister changes as you get older. That was probably my favorite part of the story.
I did also appreciate how flawed the characters all were; I love seeing a cast of characters that each has their own unique flaws. It makes them relatable, but you can still root for them, which is important.
Unfortunately, there were a lot of flaws with this story. The pacing was incredibly slow for at least the first half of the book; it definitely took too long for the story to get on its feet with Beau trying to figure out what happened with her sister.
There was also a LOT of telling instead of showing, which as we know, is one of my biggest pet peeves. It's part of what contributed to the off pacing, in my opinion, how we'd speed through certain moments with a lot of telling instead of letting those scenes breathe, and then other scenes would be dragged out unnecessarily. And despite this being a "mystery," I predicted almost every plot point that occurred long before it happened, which did take some of the fun out of it; I wish there had been more actual mystery involved to help keep the reader invested.
Finally, the ending was resolved way too easily; the characters' relationships were way too easily repaired and everything was wrapped into almost too neat of a bow. Not to say these characters didn't deserve a happy ending, I was happy to see Beau get a happy ending, but I just wish it had felt more earned instead of feeling forced as an easy way to wrap up the story.
While there were aspects of this story that I enjoyed, in the end, it just wasn't what I'd hoped for from this story after reading the synopsis.
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 27, 2023
This is a book that needs to be talked about more, and will forever stick with me. This story was powerful, raw, and real. Although fiction, Goodman provides an accurate picture of what it’s like when the victim of police brutality is a black woman. This book brings one of Malcolm X’s most famous quotes to life. Additionally, this book also does well in illustrating the depths of grief when something like this happens. Goodman also provides good imagery and doesn’t shy away from the realities of the setting, the Chicago projects. This story touches on critical social issues while providing readers with suspense and a twist that will make them want to jump into the book. The one con I have is that it felt like we were on a “commercial break” for a chunk of the book, which lost me for a bit. Moreover, I feel it took a bit too long for us to get back to the task at hand. Overall, this book deserves more recognition, and one everyone should read.
June 4, 2022
4 stars
This is a fantastic YA contemporary that includes issues of race, socioeconomic status, coming of age, changing relationships with friends and family, and an awareness of in/visibility.
Beau, the m.c., is at her sister Katia's funeral when the novel begins, and it's clear from the initial moments that Beau has a lot of trouble to get into and a lot of nebulous issues to sort. Katia's death is the impetus for Beau's internal and external investigations, but finding answers to that situation is only part of Beau's process. Throughout the novel, Beau grapples with memories of Katia, disappointments brought about by stresses in their relationship, some level of displacement (because it's easy to blame a lot on a shady partner, and her friendships and relationships with surviving family members. Beau also thinks about her socioeconomic status quite a bit and considers how this facet of her identity shapes her and differentiates her from others in her circle. In a situation that is fortunately not as relatable for most young readers (putting together the pieces of their sibling's death), Beau is an extremely relatable character and one for whom it is easy to root.
From the cover and blurb, I expected that what I'd love most about this book is the treatment of race. While this is a standout feature, there's so much more to love than may initially meet the eye. I also fervently recommend the audiobook. The narration adds so much here. Goodman is definitely on my to-watch and to-read list, and I suggest that other YA lovers follow suit.
*Special thanks to NetGalley, Macmillan Young Listeners, and Feiwel & Friends for the e-arc and audio arc, which I received in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
This is a fantastic YA contemporary that includes issues of race, socioeconomic status, coming of age, changing relationships with friends and family, and an awareness of in/visibility.
Beau, the m.c., is at her sister Katia's funeral when the novel begins, and it's clear from the initial moments that Beau has a lot of trouble to get into and a lot of nebulous issues to sort. Katia's death is the impetus for Beau's internal and external investigations, but finding answers to that situation is only part of Beau's process. Throughout the novel, Beau grapples with memories of Katia, disappointments brought about by stresses in their relationship, some level of displacement (because it's easy to blame a lot on a shady partner, and her friendships and relationships with surviving family members. Beau also thinks about her socioeconomic status quite a bit and considers how this facet of her identity shapes her and differentiates her from others in her circle. In a situation that is fortunately not as relatable for most young readers (putting together the pieces of their sibling's death), Beau is an extremely relatable character and one for whom it is easy to root.
From the cover and blurb, I expected that what I'd love most about this book is the treatment of race. While this is a standout feature, there's so much more to love than may initially meet the eye. I also fervently recommend the audiobook. The narration adds so much here. Goodman is definitely on my to-watch and to-read list, and I suggest that other YA lovers follow suit.
*Special thanks to NetGalley, Macmillan Young Listeners, and Feiwel & Friends for the e-arc and audio arc, which I received in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
June 6, 2022
The Black Girls Left Standing takes a look at the aftermath of a Black teen's murder by a white police officer. Beau's sister Katia is killed after they say she was accused of breaking and entering, but Beau knows her sister. She knows that Katia would never do something they accused her of. The only problem is that Jordan, Katia's loser boyfriend and the only witness to the crime, is missing. Beau and her friend hope to find Jordan, so they can clear Katia's name and make sure she doesn't become just another Black teen killed.
This book examines the life of one Black girl in the aftermath of her sister's death, and what Beau goes through is painfully real. My heart ached for Beau trying to navigate not only the death of her sister but also everything else life decides to throw at her after that. The fact that Beau feels like she has to act like an adult is an awful reality for many teens in the wake of tragedy. Their childhood is ripped from them, and they are forced to grow up almost instantaneously. The realness of this book is the hardest thing of all. Despite that, I think this is an important read for everyone, especially in light of all the recent news,
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for this ALC. Ariel Blake was an excellent narrator. Beau's spirit really shone through in her narration. I definitely recommend this book to everyone.
This book examines the life of one Black girl in the aftermath of her sister's death, and what Beau goes through is painfully real. My heart ached for Beau trying to navigate not only the death of her sister but also everything else life decides to throw at her after that. The fact that Beau feels like she has to act like an adult is an awful reality for many teens in the wake of tragedy. Their childhood is ripped from them, and they are forced to grow up almost instantaneously. The realness of this book is the hardest thing of all. Despite that, I think this is an important read for everyone, especially in light of all the recent news,
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for this ALC. Ariel Blake was an excellent narrator. Beau's spirit really shone through in her narration. I definitely recommend this book to everyone.
March 18, 2022
Juliana Goodman is a new author to me, and when I saw the description of this book on Netgalley I just had to request it. I was so impressed when I found out that this is her debut novel. Her writing style is up there with Angie Thomas and Tiffany D Jackson! I felt my heart breaking for Beau as she tried to navigate her newly shattered life after her sister was murdered by the police. The pacing of the story was great, and I felt myself flipping the pages faster and faster as the plot unfolded. I can’t wait to read her next novel!
June 28, 2022
I deeply feel like this is the story of the stages of grief at least the first few. It's beautiful and painful, lined with a dash of mystery. There are parts in this book so real and true that they heart, that my heart was aching so deeply I was disappointed by the world we live in. It's hard to run from, but this book wouldn't be the beauty that it was without the truth that lined these pages. I throughly enjoyed this one and I am so happy I was able to read it. I was so worried this book would just make me sad, but it was so beautiful in so many ways. I loved it in every aspect.
January 26, 2024
I liked the story but it felt very disjointed at times. Things progressed way too quickly and it just felt like a lot of stuff was spoonfed to me. I enjoyed the segments that took place in the past and I feel like that’s where some of the strongest writing was.
August 24, 2022
4.75 Stars
Want to read
January 10, 2022@fiercereads on Instagram made a wordsearch-style post with the idea that you add the first three book titles you see to your 2022 TBR! 'The Black Girls Left Standing' was the first I spotted, the others were 'Travelers Along the Way' and 'The Red Palace'. The latter two I'd heard of and were on my TBR already but I hadn't spotted this one yet so I'm very glad I stumbled across this post!
June 5, 2022
Juliana Goodman's The Black Girls Left standing follows sixteen-year-old Beau following the murder of her sister, Katia, by an off-duty police officer. Beau wants to be an artist and leave Chicago, but right now, the only thing on her mind is that the officer who shot her older sister will get away with it. He accused Katia and her boyfriend of trying to break into her house, but her boyfriend, Jordan, ran off and no one has heard from him. Beau knows that her sister's killer won't be charged without a witness, so she's determined to find Jordan and convince him to testify. She and a friend create an anonymous twitter account to collect tips, but it seems that Katia is quickly yesterday's news, Beau is receiving threats to quit her search, and her only source for tips may or may not be reliable. Goodman's writing is strong and she effectively gives each of her characters unique voices. The storyline was compelling and it was written from a relatable and necessary viewpoint. There were a couple of wonky things happening occasionally that pulled me out of the writing a little bit--clothing was described constantly and if there were three characters in a scene, each character's outfit was described in detail. This is helpful once or twice for important characters because clothing sets tone and identity--how people project themselves is so important to understanding who they are personally, socially, and culturally. But it was a little overdone and felt distracting at times. I also felt like there was a lot going on and readers weren't always given enough context--someone pulled a gun on someone else and I completely missed this scene until it was referenced later on (and I'm still unsure if the scene was actually written or if there was just so much happening that I was distracted), and sometimes characters were referred to without enough context and it takes a minute to figure out who is being referred to. All in all, it was a worthwhile and important read and one that I will absolutely add to my classroom bookshelves.
July 11, 2022
#TheblackGirlsLeftStanding by @julianawroteit is what I finished on audio a few days ago. Many rhanks to @macmillan.audio for a chance to read and review.
This story opens with 16 year old Beau grieving the loss of her older sister, murdered by police violence. Her sister Katia was on a porch in the middle of the night, and was shot dead by the policeman that lived there who claimed she and her boyfriend were attempting to break in. Not only is Beau's life left in tatters by the loss of her sister, but the rage and disbelief of the story leads her down a dangerous path. This story doesnt wrap up in a pretty little bow; her sister is dead, and there is no justice. Her parents are fighting constantly, her family falling apart. This story is so much about not just the tragedy and how to find peace afterwards, but also about family dynamics, the realities of poverty, the dangers and spots of joy found in the projects, friendship, and forgiveness. This story really was spot on with how different people deal with grief, and all of the strange thoughts you have when people are gone, like where are they now? This shell of a body isnt HER. Why did this have to happen? This was YA but didnt read as YA, as these "kids" really didnt have much time to be kids, as it often goes when your parents are overwhelmed with grief themselves, or the other plights they suffer from.
As bleak as this sounds, things do look up for Beau in interestingly fate-ish types of ways, that make you wonder how events are interconnected. Did X have to happen in order for Y&Z to occur? Makes you wonder.
I enjoyed this so much, please give it a listen for well fleshed out characters, and a plot that keeps it moving, you wont want to put it down!
#ya #policebrutality #theprojects #hopeintheprojects #intrasocialstatusfriendships
#friends #copingwithdeath #copingwithpolicebrutality
#policeBiasKills #BLM
This story opens with 16 year old Beau grieving the loss of her older sister, murdered by police violence. Her sister Katia was on a porch in the middle of the night, and was shot dead by the policeman that lived there who claimed she and her boyfriend were attempting to break in. Not only is Beau's life left in tatters by the loss of her sister, but the rage and disbelief of the story leads her down a dangerous path. This story doesnt wrap up in a pretty little bow; her sister is dead, and there is no justice. Her parents are fighting constantly, her family falling apart. This story is so much about not just the tragedy and how to find peace afterwards, but also about family dynamics, the realities of poverty, the dangers and spots of joy found in the projects, friendship, and forgiveness. This story really was spot on with how different people deal with grief, and all of the strange thoughts you have when people are gone, like where are they now? This shell of a body isnt HER. Why did this have to happen? This was YA but didnt read as YA, as these "kids" really didnt have much time to be kids, as it often goes when your parents are overwhelmed with grief themselves, or the other plights they suffer from.
As bleak as this sounds, things do look up for Beau in interestingly fate-ish types of ways, that make you wonder how events are interconnected. Did X have to happen in order for Y&Z to occur? Makes you wonder.
I enjoyed this so much, please give it a listen for well fleshed out characters, and a plot that keeps it moving, you wont want to put it down!
#ya #policebrutality #theprojects #hopeintheprojects #intrasocialstatusfriendships
#friends #copingwithdeath #copingwithpolicebrutality
#policeBiasKills #BLM
February 28, 2024
I listened to the audiobook version of this book and the narrator did a great job with this book. Beau was a complex character throughout this book. I felt very bad for Beau because I have two older sisters and I would be devastated if I lose my sister. The way that Beau sister died made me hurt for this character even more because police brutality is a major problem here. I feel like same way Beau and her family feel about the police and had some of the same encounters with law enforcement during my years in college. I do understand why Beau created a twitter for her sister because a lot of story surrounding black women gets forgotten. The relationship between Beau and Champion was cool even through I felt like Beau was ashamed of where she came from when she was around him. Champion never judge Beau regardless of everything that happened with Beau. I feel so bad that Beau family fall apart after the death of Katia especially Beau mother because losing a child is the hardest thing a parent can go through. I would have never trusted that girl Madison from the start because girls like her are snakes. I do not understand by Beau consistently lie to Champion because he really wanted to be her friend and person. I just feel like she consistently lie about stupid things when she could just tell him what is going on with her. The fact that Beau really thought that Champion did her wrong when she lied just like her father lie about looking for work. I understand her frustration and why she feel like life is getting to her because things are piling up but she consistent push people away. I am happy she got that summer art scholarship because she needed it.
October 13, 2024
It's been a long time since I have written anything here on a book. I will say it has also been a long time since I have felt compelled to write a review on any book.
I didn't pick this book for myself. I checked it out for my daughter, along with 2 others. She chose 1 of the 2 other options. I decided to keep this one and read it for myself. It was a sad start, a funeral right there in the first chapter. I have never read any book with a young black girl narrating from this perspective. That caught my attention.
Oddly, I started reading the book and found out that it was set in Chicago, right before I was heading to Chicago for a trip. I finished it once I returned from Chicago. There were times were I felt sad for the main character. At other times I was disappointed that the main character Beau handled things the way that she did. I understand the frustration, but I still didn't like the way she handled certain things.
Ultimately, I realized that these fictional characters were getting real life human attributes because I started to feel a certain way about them. I cared about their actions. There are glimpses were it made it flash back to my own high school experiences. There were times that I thought, as a dad, what would I do in some of these situations if this was my daughter doing these things.
Overall, I would recommend it because it is a page turner that captures the voices of black teenage youth. It's a little gritty at times, but I think that the author is still dialed in on the things that teenagers do, the things they say and most importantly, the ways that they feel in tragic moments where they feel helpless and vulnerable.
July 17, 2022
A well-read listen.
I don’t know this world, and the characters I identify with at all are all on the margins. As they should be.
I feel like in high school I sat at the table next to these girls at lunch. But in Saint Louis, not Chicago. I don’t know if I was ever in class with them. Maybe.
Beau’s voice is loud. And clear. And compelling.
She’s a flawed and well-developed character. She’s not always likes me, and her story is better for it.
This author took the charge of not being gentle with your characters and took it up several notches. Beau’s life has almost nothing gentle in it. Not nothing gentle, but almost nothing.
It’s a YA book so I’ll forgive the very American resolution at the end. Sure, it doesn’t make everything okay, but it still manages a very pretty and not super realistic bow tied with curly ribbon. It ends feeling like everything will be okay, when, of course, everything can’t be okay and yet we have to keep living and finding meaning in our lives anyway.
Lots of swearing.
Lots of the “n” word.
Death. Shootings. Murder-by-cop. Gang violence. Implied non consensual/coercive sex. Drug use. Drug selling. Police violence. Racism. Classism. Teen pregnancy. Teen parenting. Child abandonment. Some awesome grown ups and parents and teachers. Some adults who cannot get it together and cannot take care of the kids and young people in their care.
There isn’t anything easy about this book.
And that’s exactly why people like me should read it.
If we don’t know these girls, we should.
And this book invites us to.
I don’t know this world, and the characters I identify with at all are all on the margins. As they should be.
I feel like in high school I sat at the table next to these girls at lunch. But in Saint Louis, not Chicago. I don’t know if I was ever in class with them. Maybe.
Beau’s voice is loud. And clear. And compelling.
She’s a flawed and well-developed character. She’s not always likes me, and her story is better for it.
This author took the charge of not being gentle with your characters and took it up several notches. Beau’s life has almost nothing gentle in it. Not nothing gentle, but almost nothing.
It’s a YA book so I’ll forgive the very American resolution at the end. Sure, it doesn’t make everything okay, but it still manages a very pretty and not super realistic bow tied with curly ribbon. It ends feeling like everything will be okay, when, of course, everything can’t be okay and yet we have to keep living and finding meaning in our lives anyway.
Lots of swearing.
Lots of the “n” word.
Death. Shootings. Murder-by-cop. Gang violence. Implied non consensual/coercive sex. Drug use. Drug selling. Police violence. Racism. Classism. Teen pregnancy. Teen parenting. Child abandonment. Some awesome grown ups and parents and teachers. Some adults who cannot get it together and cannot take care of the kids and young people in their care.
There isn’t anything easy about this book.
And that’s exactly why people like me should read it.
If we don’t know these girls, we should.
And this book invites us to.
October 11, 2022
Beau is a sixteen year old girl trying to work her way out of the projects of Chicago. She is hoping to pursue an art degree, but her whole life is turned upside down when her older sister, Katia is murdered by an off duty police officer. No one but Beau seems to care about finding the truth, but the only way this can happen is to find Katia's missing deadbeat boyfriend Jordan.
With the help of her friend Sonnet, Beau creates a fake twitter account in the hopes of tracking down the truth. While trying to figure things out at home-- finances are always tight and the loss of a child makes it all the worse, and a budding romance with basketball star Champeon, Beau has to find her way out from the shadow of her sister's death to rise to her own dreams and aspirations.
More importantly though, Beau wants to ensure Katia is not swept under the rug like so many other murder black women.
In this beautifully written novel, Juliana Goodman demonstrates the pain, suffering and uncertainty of justice when a black person is wrongfully killed. She exquisitely details the turmoil of impoverished families an how "The other side" is forced to live.
I thought the character development was authentic. There were parts of the book I gripped the edge of my seat, parts I laugh and parts I almost cried. I thought the plot was strong and really represented a small segment of a life so well. The descriptions of scenery were also wonderful.
With the help of her friend Sonnet, Beau creates a fake twitter account in the hopes of tracking down the truth. While trying to figure things out at home-- finances are always tight and the loss of a child makes it all the worse, and a budding romance with basketball star Champeon, Beau has to find her way out from the shadow of her sister's death to rise to her own dreams and aspirations.
More importantly though, Beau wants to ensure Katia is not swept under the rug like so many other murder black women.
In this beautifully written novel, Juliana Goodman demonstrates the pain, suffering and uncertainty of justice when a black person is wrongfully killed. She exquisitely details the turmoil of impoverished families an how "The other side" is forced to live.
I thought the character development was authentic. There were parts of the book I gripped the edge of my seat, parts I laugh and parts I almost cried. I thought the plot was strong and really represented a small segment of a life so well. The descriptions of scenery were also wonderful.
June 16, 2022
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley and am voluntarily posting a review. All opinions are my own.
The Black Girls Left Standing caught my attention with its provocative title and eye-catching cover. Both perfectly encapsulate the vibes of what are to be found within the pages: one part hard-hitting contemporary interrogating anti-Black racist violence (in the vein of previous titles, like The Hate U Give), one part intriguing mystery.
The structure of the book perfectly sums up the journey Beau goes on, reckoning with her grief in the wake of Katia’s death and looking back to the times they shared together, while also being motivated to find answers and get justice for Katia and other Black women who have also been wrongfully killed. The past informs the present, and while sometimes flashbacks can slow a story down, the pacing remained brisk and kept me continually invested.
Beau is a sympathetic lead, and an unfortunate example of how Black teens often have to grow up faster, especially when tragedy touches them and those with authority who did wrong aren’t held accountable for their transgressions against them.
This is a strong debut, and I’m excited for what’s to come. If you enjoy hard-hitting YA contemporaries with a mystery thread, you might enjoy this one.
The Black Girls Left Standing caught my attention with its provocative title and eye-catching cover. Both perfectly encapsulate the vibes of what are to be found within the pages: one part hard-hitting contemporary interrogating anti-Black racist violence (in the vein of previous titles, like The Hate U Give), one part intriguing mystery.
The structure of the book perfectly sums up the journey Beau goes on, reckoning with her grief in the wake of Katia’s death and looking back to the times they shared together, while also being motivated to find answers and get justice for Katia and other Black women who have also been wrongfully killed. The past informs the present, and while sometimes flashbacks can slow a story down, the pacing remained brisk and kept me continually invested.
Beau is a sympathetic lead, and an unfortunate example of how Black teens often have to grow up faster, especially when tragedy touches them and those with authority who did wrong aren’t held accountable for their transgressions against them.
This is a strong debut, and I’m excited for what’s to come. If you enjoy hard-hitting YA contemporaries with a mystery thread, you might enjoy this one.
July 17, 2022
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The Black Girls Left Standing is a portrayal of the impact of police brutality, showing the grief people go through and how family relationships are affected.
Beau's sister Katia is murdered after being accused of breaking and entering, but Beau knows her sister. She would never do that.
It was devastating to read how Beau handled her sister's death while having to act like an adult, repressing her childhood and adolescence.
Juliana Goodman made a great debut, impressing me with her work. Her writing is emotional and painful, being a book with flawed characters and incredible flashbacks that explore Beau's relationship with her sister.
This story keeps you hooked, showing us the reality behind the racism, police brutality and grief. I think it was a great ending.
That said, The Black Girls Left Standing deserved to end better. Some of the characters should not have been forgotten as easily as they were.
I highly recommend this book.
tw: gun violence, racism, police brutality, death, drug use, mental illness, toxic friendship, sexual harassment.
The Black Girls Left Standing is a portrayal of the impact of police brutality, showing the grief people go through and how family relationships are affected.
Beau's sister Katia is murdered after being accused of breaking and entering, but Beau knows her sister. She would never do that.
It was devastating to read how Beau handled her sister's death while having to act like an adult, repressing her childhood and adolescence.
Juliana Goodman made a great debut, impressing me with her work. Her writing is emotional and painful, being a book with flawed characters and incredible flashbacks that explore Beau's relationship with her sister.
This story keeps you hooked, showing us the reality behind the racism, police brutality and grief. I think it was a great ending.
That said, The Black Girls Left Standing deserved to end better. Some of the characters should not have been forgotten as easily as they were.
I highly recommend this book.
tw: gun violence, racism, police brutality, death, drug use, mental illness, toxic friendship, sexual harassment.
June 27, 2022
4.5 stars rounded down.
This is a wonderful and engaging contemporary, own voices, debut, YA novel. The reader is told an emotional story across a nonlinear timeline of the events leading up to, and following, the murder of the main character's sister. Our main character, Beau, is a young Black girl from Chicago who, while processing her grief, is also desperately trying to understand the circumstances surrounding the murder of her older sister, Katia, by local police. She and her friend find themselves in more and more dangerous situations as Beau uncovers more about the events leading up to, and people involved in, her sister's murder.
This well written story keeps you engaged throughout its entirety and tackles topics (without glossing over the painful reality of such topics) of grief, institutionalized racism, gentrification, SES, police brutality (including minors), gang violence, bullying, and coming of age.
I listened to the audiobook, narrated by Ariel Blake, via NetGalley. An advanced reader's copy of this audiobook was provided to me via NetGalley by Macmillan Audio in exchange for an honest review.
This is a wonderful and engaging contemporary, own voices, debut, YA novel. The reader is told an emotional story across a nonlinear timeline of the events leading up to, and following, the murder of the main character's sister. Our main character, Beau, is a young Black girl from Chicago who, while processing her grief, is also desperately trying to understand the circumstances surrounding the murder of her older sister, Katia, by local police. She and her friend find themselves in more and more dangerous situations as Beau uncovers more about the events leading up to, and people involved in, her sister's murder.
This well written story keeps you engaged throughout its entirety and tackles topics (without glossing over the painful reality of such topics) of grief, institutionalized racism, gentrification, SES, police brutality (including minors), gang violence, bullying, and coming of age.
I listened to the audiobook, narrated by Ariel Blake, via NetGalley. An advanced reader's copy of this audiobook was provided to me via NetGalley by Macmillan Audio in exchange for an honest review.
July 19, 2022
Thank you Netgalley and MacMillan audio for this advance listener copy in exchange for my honest review.
This was a great book. I loved the story and the characters, however, I was left wanting more. I don't know if there will be a sequel, but this book could use one. I'd like to see some of the plotlines tied up a bit better.
This book reminded me a lot of The Hate U Give. Any readers who enjoyed that book/movie will definitely enjoy this book. It was a real glimpse into the world of a teenage black girl living in the projects. I don't know much about living in the projects or being a black teenager, but this book felt authentic to me. Maybe others who have lived these circumstances would disagree, but as a poor white girl who grew up in a slummy apartment complex, I felt like I could relate to an extent (obviously not to the fullest extent). This is a powerful story and I'm glad I read it. It's definitely written as a YA novel and reads like that, but it was a really good story that adult readers will enjoy too.
The audio was fantastic. One of the best narrators I've ever heard. She really brought Beau and her friends to life. Loved it. Four stars.
This was a great book. I loved the story and the characters, however, I was left wanting more. I don't know if there will be a sequel, but this book could use one. I'd like to see some of the plotlines tied up a bit better.
This book reminded me a lot of The Hate U Give. Any readers who enjoyed that book/movie will definitely enjoy this book. It was a real glimpse into the world of a teenage black girl living in the projects. I don't know much about living in the projects or being a black teenager, but this book felt authentic to me. Maybe others who have lived these circumstances would disagree, but as a poor white girl who grew up in a slummy apartment complex, I felt like I could relate to an extent (obviously not to the fullest extent). This is a powerful story and I'm glad I read it. It's definitely written as a YA novel and reads like that, but it was a really good story that adult readers will enjoy too.
The audio was fantastic. One of the best narrators I've ever heard. She really brought Beau and her friends to life. Loved it. Four stars.
June 18, 2022
Beau’s sister Katia was killed by an off-duty police officer and she’s determined to clear Katia’s name and try to get justice for her. That means doing everything to find the one person who knows what happened that night, Katia’s boyfriend Jordan who has gone into hiding. As Beau follows a series of tips, she’s forced to confront all the ways the world she lives in is unfair and begins to question whether anyone in her life really understands.
I really liked how this story wrapped up but it unfortunately took me months to get to that part. For much of this novel it was way too easy to put it down between chapters. There was nothing that made me feel like I needed to know exactly what would happen next. A lot of middle just sort of felt like filler to me including the entire Champion storyline.
I don’t think this was a poorly written story, just maybe not what I was personally looking for. This is probably still worth a read if the description sounds interesting to you.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I really liked how this story wrapped up but it unfortunately took me months to get to that part. For much of this novel it was way too easy to put it down between chapters. There was nothing that made me feel like I needed to know exactly what would happen next. A lot of middle just sort of felt like filler to me including the entire Champion storyline.
I don’t think this was a poorly written story, just maybe not what I was personally looking for. This is probably still worth a read if the description sounds interesting to you.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 4, 2022
As I've said before, I really enjoy picking books up on a whim and really loving them! The Black Girls Left Standing is one of those books, it discusses important issues that young Black teens are facing in America. I am white, so I cannot speak for Black readers but for me personally, I found this book to be a touching tribute to sisterhood and how police violence (or any violence really) can run rampant in neighborhoods.
We follow the story of a girl names Beau Willets, who's sister was killed by a policeman while she was out with a friend. Beau and her family are now broken, her parents are fighting all the time and basically ignoring her. Beau wants justice, and feels like her family won't get it....so she takes things into her own hands, by starting a Twitter account using the voice of her sister Katia asking the public for justice instead. But things can get out of hand with bigger forces involved. Life can be scary for a person of color in America, especially teenage girls.
We follow the story of a girl names Beau Willets, who's sister was killed by a policeman while she was out with a friend. Beau and her family are now broken, her parents are fighting all the time and basically ignoring her. Beau wants justice, and feels like her family won't get it....so she takes things into her own hands, by starting a Twitter account using the voice of her sister Katia asking the public for justice instead. But things can get out of hand with bigger forces involved. Life can be scary for a person of color in America, especially teenage girls.
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