Reluctant readers is a term to describe those that don't enjoy reading. Reluctant readers often have reasons for not enjoying reading. Maybe they have only read for assignments and never found anything that interest them. Maybe they struggle to read for one reason or another, or they struggle with comprehending what they are reading. Once upon a time I was a reluctant reader. I struggled understanding what I read b/c of a learning disability.
Obviously, I'm not a reluctant reader any longer, and I most definitely feel it is never too late to become a reader. A way to help those reluctant readers become readers is to find books that are fast reads, that grab the readers attention, and keep them turning the page. Graphic novels and books written in free verse are usually great choices for reluctant readers.
Long Way Down by Jason Reynolds is a young adult novel written in free verse poetry. Now, don't let the word poetry scare you. Free verse poetry is basically short thoughts that take out a bunch of the filler words not needed to understand the characters or story. It's tough to write a great book in free verse, but Reynolds did it well. Hence, the reason Long Way Down won Newbery and Printz Honor awards. The two most prestigious awards for an author, Jason Reynolds came in as a runner-up. Amazing! That's something that rarely happens.
Another thing that doesn't happen everyday, but far more often than earning a Newbery and a Printz, is getting 5 out of 5 stars from me in a book review. Though, I guess it's not super surprising since it's quite the award winning book. #sogood
Long Way Down is a fantastic book. The story is interesting b/c the entire story takes place in an elevator. The story is enlightening into the life of an inner city teen. The story has depth with great character development and discussions of expectations and revenge. The story is a fast read many readers and reluctant readers alike will enjoy. This story would be a great book for high school teachers to use, read, and discuss in the classroom.
Happy Young Adult Powerful Fast Free Verse Reading!
Long Way Down by Jason Reynolds
Rating: 5/5 stars
Best For: 13-18 years old, 8th to 12th grade.
Clean Read: Violence.
Worth a Check Out: Yes. Readers who like The Crossover will like this one.
Buy It or Not: Yes. Definitely a purchase for a library collection, English Teacher, and those looking for a great book.
Read Aloud: Yes. This fast read would make a great classroom read aloud for a high school or 8th grade classroom.
Lesson Ideas: Inner city, poetry, family relationships, revenge, expectations, obligations.
Did you read this well deserved Newbery and Printz Honor book? What did you think?
A few quotes I loved from Long Way Down b/c they made me laugh, I could relate to them, or there was depth to it.
"People always love more when they are dead."
"Laughed so hard I farted." 🤣
"Head lock that felt like a hug." Oh siblings and their special way of showing love.
"You coming?" Read the book to get the depth of this last question.
Did you have a favorite quote?
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