Incredibly Human Henson Blayze

Barnes, DerrickHardcover, 272 pagesLONGISTED FOR THE NATIONAL BOOK AWARD • Newbery Honoree Derrick Barnes tackles timely issues of race and prejudice in this powerful, nuanced novel about an accomplished Black boy who strives to be seen for who he is. “A novel that is empowered, empowering, and incredibly human. You won't be the same after reading it.”—Erin Entrada Kelly, two-time winner of the Newbery Medal★ “Bold, extraordinary storytelling: not to be missed.”—Kirkus Reviews, starred reviewIn the small town of Great Mountain, Mississippi, all eyes are on Henson Blayze, a thirteen-year-old football phenom whose talents seem almost superhuman. The predominately white townsfolk have been waiting for Henson to play high school ball, and now they’re overjoyed to finally possess an elite Black athlete of their own. Until a horrifying incident forces Henson to speak out about injustice. Until he says that he might not play football anymore. Until he quickly learns he isn’t as loved by the p