What sets this work apart, though, is the emotional heaviness of the journey that Blade encounters on his journey to discover his identity, forgive/reconcile with this father, wrestle with love, and express himself through his remarkable musical talent.

Solo is written for an upper teen audience and above (I’d recommend for Ages 15 and up or mature readers), as it does discuss typical teenage experiences including alcohol consumption, drug use, and sex. This verse novel is very different than his other books however, most notably in the intended audience. He was surprised to see me holding a copy of Solo in the audience and he talked about how this book explored very similar themes of his other works: the relationship between a young man and his father, discovering your identity despite obstacles, how a gift (athletic or musical) may define our character, how art (literary or musical) can help heal wounds. I was fortunate enough to travel with my friend (and amazing school librarian) to meet Kwame Alexander when he was in Cedar Rapids this summer to hear him speak about his life and work.

A few months ago, I was fortunate to get my hands on an ARC of Solo, the new book by Kwame Alexander and Mary Rand Hess, and I think it is a masterpiece on a whole separate plane of existence than his other work. For those teachers and readers who fell in love with Crossover and Booked, the prospect of a new book by Kwame Alexander can make their hearts flutter at the mere thought.

Solo alexander kwame