Atheneum Books Genesis Begins Again

OK

My daughter had to buy this book for required reading in her advanced english class for 8th grade. She ended up LOVING the book. It does deal with some sensitive issues regarding body positivity and race, but it's well done and appropriate for her age as well.

Daughter had to read it for school. Good read.

It’s always nice when you find a new favorite book, and I knew partway through reading GENESIS BEGINS AGAIN by Alicia D. Williams that I was reading a new favorite. This middle grade novel is heartbreaking but also realistic. I read it as an audiobook, which is read by the author, and I loved every second of it. It’s easy to get into the story and become enamored by our main character Genesis. This novel explores intergenerational trauma and the cycle of bad choices and bad parenting that end of affecting children generations later. It also pays homage and shows appreciation of how Black music has a history of healing and guidance for those who feel sad, lost, and alone. This book features an emotionally abusive parent, self-hate, colorism, and alcoholism in a parent, which can be heavy topics, but I found Williams’ handling of them to be appropriate without being watered down. I loved this book so much I bought two copies for my classroom.

I absolutely love this book. I am now using it to facilitate a book club!