INVISIBLE SON was an excellent, tough, emotional book, one that pushed aside other entertainments and obligations, one that I had to finish before bed because Andre and others felt so real, so courageous, and I cared about them.
The dealings with police, the implications of COVID, and the scenes of BLM protests in Portland were intense, like being there, angry and scared and determined to set things right. This is an important book, one I’d include in high school curriculum and in every library.

Accused of a crime he didn't commit!

17yo Andre returns to his home in Portland, Oregon feeling angry, confused and disgruntled after serving two months in a juvenile detention center for something he didn’t do. He also has to adjust to pandemic life because everything seems to have changed. Andre was framed for robberies when someone placed a backpack of stolen items in his locker and that’s the evidence that sent him away. He has an idea of who did it and he wants to know the truth. When his friend Eric goes missing, the danger builds and secrets are revealed as Andre tries to find his friend and get justice.

Likes/dislikes: The chapter titles are fun since they’re named after songs. The history of our country’s turmoil during the pandemic is represented well. I enjoyed the book and read it straight through. The story reminds me a bit of The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas, because of the harsh reality brought to life, but with less swearing.
Language: R for 45 swears and 4 f-words.
Mature Content: PG-13 for underage smoking and the mention of underage drinking.
Violence: PG-13 for mention of attempted murder suicide by carbon monoxide poisoning.
Ethnicity: Ethnicity is predominantly white with the Black main characters of Andre, Sierra and Eric. Luis is Mexican American.

As the blurb promises, this is a book about being a young Black man in America. There is the injustice Andre faces when he is accused of and held responsible for something he didn't do. The book also touches on the protests following George Floyd's death, the effects of Covid on people, and the importance of family and community. The author does a good job with the main character and many of the secondary characters as well. I thought the mystery aspect of the book was good and I was quite surprised by the ending!

Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for a free e-ARC of this book.

OOF this actually brought back a LOT of early 2020 bad feelings

We start the book in February 2020, as Andre is getting released from juvenile detention. He's to be on house arrest for the foreseeable future. He and his parents live with his grandparents.

The timeline the book follows is the true "historical" (it was literally 3 years ago but still it's like, chronologically accurate) timeline of 2020. In March, things start to get iffy and by mid-March school is closed indefinitely. Andre and his family deal with skirting COVID then with having COVID - his mom is a nurse and his dad is a small business owner so like, it's so prevalent in his house, not that it wasn't prevalent in ALL our houses, but between his parents' jobs and his grandparents' ages and health status, his household is like THE example household to show what things were like in the early days of the pandemic. His mom moves in with a coworker, in order to prevent the family from being contaminated, and his dad shifts his bookstore to online orders and store pickups, but worries about the fate of the shop.

That's until May 2020, when George Floyd is killed by police, and protests begin. There's an influx of "new" BLM "supporters" who flock to support Black businesses, like Andre's dad's store. I think the author is very good at invoking these memories from a lens that, obviously, I didn't see them through.

Andre's got a mystery going on that he's trying to solve as well - he was framed for his crime that landed him in trouble in the first place. His neighbor and friend, Eric, was one of the ones doing the stealing, but Andre hasn't seen him since being back. In fact, his family says that Eric ran away almost immediately after Andre went away. Andre just can't fully grasp that Eric would just disappear, and feels pretty betrayed by his allowance of Andre to do the time, so he has plenty of reason to want to find Eric, but he also just misses his friend.

Andre's got a burgeoning romance with Eric's sister, Sierra, to deal with, all his family issues, the mystery of Eric, his social worker guys on his case, and all this is on top of the crushing loneliness that quarantine brings. He was already GOING to be in the house, with his house arrest, but he still had hours that he would have been allowed out of the house. Now he sits in the house, confronted with the racial injustice not only behind George Floyd's murder and systemic police brutality and inequality, but the way that Black households and other households of color are disproportionally affected by the COVID pandemic.

There's just a lot to think about in this book, and being a little removed from the early days of the pandemic, it's interesting to have a way to look back at it all from a teen's perspective. I teared up a few times just because it's actually been kind of easy to block out how scary and uncertain things were back then. And things were scary and uncertain for ME, a white adult woman with a steady household income and the general privilege of mostly just being bored and having a bad sleep schedule while we were staying at home. Seeing what teens were feeling as their school schedules were disrupted and their loved ones were threatened and, for Black teens, their worth as humans was debated and tokenized... yeah, I'd say this was a very grounding book for sure.

I guess I didn't love the ending of the mystery. I just... didn't care that much? Maybe I was too caught up in my own feelings about the era lol but yeah idk I can see how people would get sucked in by that aspect though!!

I also think since it's fairly recent subject matter, and from a relative point of view, that this is a great suggestion for reluctant readers, especially boys.

[3.5 stars]

I loved Kim Johnson's debut YA novel, This is My America, but her sophomore novel didn't live up to her debut. A teenager (Andre) gets out of juvie at the beginning of COVID for a crime he didn’t commit. School is shut down, but Andre is looking forward to resuming his relationship with the Whitaker family. He has a crush on Sierra Whitaker and her brother, Eric, has disappeared. Andre believes that figuring out what happened to Eric will help him prove his own innocence in the crime he was arrested for. This wasn’t a flat out failure for me, it was a bit uneven and I started to lose interest towards the end (I was skimming by 80%). The strength of this book is Johnson’s portrayal of what it’s like to live in fear…for your life & of violating your probation. And, what it feels like for a Black man to encounter the suddenly super anti-racist white people that became very vocal after George Floyd’s murder. But, the COVID setting felt overwhelming in the second half and I felt disconnected reading a story that did not incorporate the hindsight knowledge we now have about COVID. I also didn't buy some of the teenagers' character twists and was frustrated by some of the rash and self-sabotaging decisions the teenagers made towards the end of the book. Finally, at 400+ pages, it could've used some additional editing.

I was enthralled by Kim Johnson’s writing after reading This is My America. Whew, that book gave me palpitations and kept me on the edge of my seat! This book set me alight in a different, but equally effective way.

This YA story quietly compounds the varied layers of exactly what it means to be a young Black boy. He is grappling with what his new reality looks like. He is feeling the weight of what it is like to constantly be under surveillance and have assumptions made about you – even while just walking down the street. It is discriminatory, contentious and makes him riddled with fear for just being. This is not unlike the harsh and ugly reality of what many Black males experience today. With the passage of time, things have not changed. As Kim Johnson stated: "The past is still very present." This story brings all of that to the forefront.

great book wow. recommend having nothing else to do but read for a day or 2. the character development was great as as well as the plot.

I really love Kim Johnson’s stories about society and social justice. They make me stop and think.

I don’t think I loved this one quite as much as This Is My America, but it was nearly there.

I thought the plot jumped around a little bit and made certain parts hard to follow.

I love Andre and I was so happy to see his life brighten up by the end. He deserved it! The way he was treated by everyone, including his family, in the beginning made my heart ache.

Overall, I would definitely recommend this!

"Invisible Son" is a gripping and timely thriller that delves into the complexities of identity, injustice, and the harsh realities faced by young Black individuals in contemporary America. Penned by Kim Johnson, this novel once again showcases her prowess in crafting thought-provoking narratives that shed light on pertinent social issues.

The story revolves around Andre Jackson, a young man who finds himself wrongfully accused of a crime, leading to a tumultuous journey to reclaim not only his innocence but also his sense of self. Set against the backdrop of a rapidly gentrifying Portland, Oregon, and further complicated by the outbreak of a global pandemic, the novel navigates through the struggles Andre faces as he fights to reintegrate into a world that has changed drastically in his absence.

Johnson skillfully captures the emotional turmoil that Andre experiences, portraying his frustration, confusion, and determination with authenticity. The author's prose is poignant, offering readers a visceral glimpse into the challenges faced by marginalized communities, both in terms of systemic injustices and personal relationships. The portrayal of Andre's neighborhood undergoing gentrification adds an additional layer of depth to the narrative, exploring the impact of societal changes on the lives of its residents.

The heart of the novel lies in its exploration of friendship, family, and love. Andre's relationships, particularly his connection with Sierra Whitaker, are woven intricately into the fabric of the story, adding a layer of vulnerability and tenderness to the otherwise intense narrative. As Andre grapples with the enigmatic disappearance of Sierra's brother, Eric, the story takes on an unexpected turn, uncovering hidden truths and shedding light on the systemic powers that shape the characters' lives.

Kim Johnson adeptly confronts issues of race, inequality, and power dynamics in "Invisible Son." The title itself serves as a metaphor for the invisibility that many Black individuals feel in a society that often marginalizes and overlooks their experiences. Johnson masterfully balances the suspenseful elements of the novel with its social justice themes, creating a compelling read that urges readers to reflect on the injustices present within their own communities.

"Invisible Son" is a testament to Kim Johnson's storytelling prowess and her dedication to highlighting the struggles and resilience of marginalized voices. With its engaging plot, well-drawn characters, and unflinching exploration of societal issues, this novel is a must-read for anyone seeking a thought-provoking and impactful narrative that speaks to the challenges of being young and Black in America.

#NetGalley #InvisibleSon

I think this is my favorite Kim Johnson book yet. While this book was a heavy read -- grief, COVID, juvenile justice system, abuse, neglect, death, police violence, and more could be included as trigger warnings -- I think it is so important. Johnson handled such difficult topics with amazing clarity, grace, and thoughtfulness. She captured the feelings and situations of COVID without getting bogged down in it. I think there's something for everyone in this one -- there's a mystery around the MC's arrest, there's romance, there's conflict, deep emotions, and a lot of thought provoking elements. I will absolutely be adding this to our school library and recommending it to students!

I had very high hopes for this book after reading This is My America. And it did not disappoint. First, can we just celebrate the creativity of the chapter titles being named after songs? And every song fit perfectly with its respective chapter. I loved the hint of mystery because there were several questions that as a reader had me speeding through the pages to find the answers. This book solidified Kim Johnson as an auto-buy author for me.

As a disclaimer, I was only able to read the excerpt from this one.

I thought the writing was absolutely beautiful, I definitely see this as something my teens will be into at the library. Can't wait to dive into the whole thing.

I was excited by the chance to read a preview of INVISIBLE SON by Kim Johnson (This Is My America), but like some other reviewers, I found I was disappointed with the experience. The story dragged and did not deliver on the promised suspense. Andre (Dre) has been convicted of a crime and when he returns home (with an ankle monitor) he has difficulty re-assimilating. It is implied that he was wrongly convicted (why was no-one fighting for him from the beginning?). Plus, his friend Eric, who could supposedly clear Andre, is now missing. Overall, Johnson does not seem to give readers much reason to care about Eric or many of the other characters. Motives (e.g., why wouldn't Andre have been much more bitter and angry?) are not clearly defined and many poor choices are made. Her fictional characters seem initially willing to ignore injustice and abuse, although Johnson later refers to events related to COVID and Black Lives Matter protests. INVISIBLE SON did receive starred reviews from Booklist ("thoughtful, passionate, and eloquent"); from Kirkus ("powerful, emotional, and insightful read"); and from Publishers Weekly ("balances intrigue with socially conscious ruminations"). I never felt that depth of emotion and question how wide of an appeal this novel would have.

I'd rate this 3.5/5--I wanted to know how they story played out but I was not totally hooked by the pacing and at times, the writing. Invisible Son is the story of Andre, who takes the blame for his friend who had been stealing things. From there, the story expands to include a mystery regarding said friend, as well as the COVID-19 pandemic and Black Lives Matter movement. As a reader, I perhaps am just not quite ready to read stories about COVID, but for me, the emotional impact of that and the losses that occur in the book were almost glossed over in a way that felt frustrating. I also felt like there was quite a bit of telling rather than showing when it came to the real-life elements of the story. This is absolutely an important book and story, and I would not hesitate to suggest it to a student who is interested in social justice issues, but I did feel like the story was trying to do a little too much at once to hook the more casual teen reader.

For so many, the months leading up to and at the height of Covid are this surreal period of time. It was inevitable that the days ran together and to some degree we lost the benefit of time reference. For me, Covid occurred alongside some major life moments that force exact time/date memorization…reading Invisible Son took me through the highs and lows of those emotions/days. Expertly written, I appreciate that Johnson dropped me down the rabbit hole of the little known history of the Albina area. Her ability to give enough that it captures your attention without taking away from her actual story is awe-inspiring. As always, her characters are real - far from perfect - but unapologetically relatable. On numerous occasions I thought I figured it out, but I never did and honestly the ending left my mouth hanging open. 5 stars. Recommended for every teen that now has a global pandemic as part of their memory.

The story follows the journey of a young Black man, Andre, navigating the complexities of life, identity, and the challenges of growing up in a society filled with prejudice and injustice. The characters in "Invisible Son" are beautifully fleshed out, with each one contributing to the profound impact of the story. Andre's struggles and triumphs felt authentic, and I found myself rooting for him every step of the way. The portrayal of family dynamics and friendships in the book added depth and authenticity to the overall narrative.

Furthermore, the book explores important themes such as racial inequality, systemic racism, and social activism with great insight and empathy. It provides readers with a poignant and eye-opening glimpse into the challenges faced by marginalized communities while highlighting the importance of standing up for justice and equality.

Kim Johnson's ability to tackle such weighty subjects with grace and empathy is commendable. "Invisible Son" serves as both a mirror and a window, reflecting the realities of some while inviting others to empathize and understand. It is a testament to the power of literature to foster understanding and compassion.

Invisible Son by Kim Johnson is a poignant and timely novel that follows Andre Jackson's struggle to reclaim his identity after being wrongfully accused of a crime. Set in a rapidly gentrifying Portland neighborhood amidst the chaos of a COVID-19 lockdown, Andre's quest for justice becomes even more challenging. Johnson skillfully explores themes of racial tensions, systemic injustice, and resilience, weaving a gripping narrative that keeps readers engaged until the very end. The search for truth intertwines with Andre's journey, highlighting the invisibility felt by many in society and emphasizing the importance of amplifying marginalized voices. With compelling characters and a powerful storytelling style, Invisible Son serves as a thought-provoking reminder of the need for empathy and compassion in an unequal world.

Andre Jackson wants to get back to life before everything happened. Before his closest friend turned against him, when he was a student not a criminal. To regain his life he will have to find out where the real criminals are. Johnson has a gift in presenting current hot topics and difficult ones to discuss. Invisible Son cracks open the social injustices of the COVID epidemic and social structures that are imbalanced. while this is jam packed with reminiscing and a suspenseful twist and turns; there was a heavy handedness that over shadowed everything. At times the suspense wasn't seamless and would conflict with the heavy topics.

There were a lot of things I liked about this book. I thought Andre's story was riveting and powerful, the emotionality of the story was strong, and the reality of the helplessness was palpable. I've seen other reviewers note that they didn't like that it took place during COVID-19, but this was actually another aspect of the book I really enjoyed- it helped me connect through that shared fear.

There were times that the narration felt either flat or confusing and too quick, which is why I took away a star- I wish it has been more consistent in its pacing and tone.

"Invisible Son" by Kim Johnson is a compelling and thought-provoking young adult novel that delves into themes of identity, racial injustice, and the power dynamics in America. Through the eyes of the protagonist, Andre Jackson, the author weaves a gripping tale of resilience and determination in the face of a system that seeks to erase his existence.

The story follows Andre as he returns from juvenile detention, only to find his neighborhood rapidly gentrifying and the COVID-19 pandemic further isolating him from his community. Andre's quest to reclaim his identity and uncover the truth behind his wrongful arrest adds layers of tension and intrigue. The author skillfully captures the sense of dislocation and frustration Andre experiences as he navigates a world that constantly undermines his existence.

Johnson's writing shines in the exploration of racial dynamics and social justice. She adeptly portrays the challenges faced by young Black individuals, shedding light on the systemic biases and injustices they encounter. The narrative exposes the reader to the struggles of being young and Black in America, providing a powerful platform for empathy and understanding. The book stands as an important contribution to the growing genre of social justice thrillers.

The characters in "Invisible Son" are well-developed and relatable. Andre's determination and resilience make him a compelling protagonist, and the complexity of his relationships, especially with Sierra and the Whitaker family, adds depth to the story. Johnson expertly weaves together their individual struggles, highlighting the interconnection of their experiences and the importance of ally ship in the fight for justice.

The pacing of the book is well-balanced, keeping the reader engaged from start to finish. The plot unfolds with precision, gradually revealing layers of deception and intrigue. The author skillfully incorporates timely issues such as gentrification, racial profiling, and the impact of the pandemic, grounding the story in a tangible reality.

While "Invisible Son" successfully addresses important themes and delivers a gripping narrative, there are instances where certain plot developments feel predictable or overly convenient. These minor flaws, however, do not significantly detract from the overall impact and enjoyment of the book.

Overall, "Invisible Son" is a compelling and important novel that sheds light on the experiences of young Black individuals in America. Kim Johnson's poignant storytelling and exploration of identity and justice make this book a must-read for fans of social justice thrillers. It serves as a powerful reminder of the systemic challenges faced by marginalized communities while offering hope and inspiration for change.