1. Long Way Down: The Graphic Novel by Jason Reynolds, illus. by Danica Novgorodoff (2020) 12+
According to Will, when you lose someone you love to gun crime there are three simple rules to follow – no crying, no snitching, get revenge. When Will witnesses the murder of his older brother, Shawn, he intends to follow these three simple rules. The 67 seconds in the lift is a life-changing moment for Will who realises revenge is a little more complex. From his apartment to the ground floor, he must consider whether avenging his brother’s murder is the right course of action. The powerful story is beautifully captured by Novgorodoff’s muted watercolour illustrations. This accessible format is an adaptation of Reynolds’ novel, originally written in verse.
2. After the Rain by Natália Gomes (2021) 13+
Set in modern times, After the Rain tells the story of two teenagers who are deeply affected, both physically and mentally, by one life-changing tragedy. The duo narrative allows the reader to empathise with both characters who struggle to cope with their altered lives. It is a powerful novel that focuses on mental health and the true meaning of friendship – contemporary issues so very relevant to our younger generation.