The 57 Bus

A valuable book in many respects, The 57 Bus addresses crucial themes. The author clearly has a younger audience in mind, resulting in a somewhat juvenile writing style. This isn't necessarily a flaw, as the book's primary aim is to make its messaging and information accessible, which is crucial in order to reach more people. However, this approach did somewhat diminish my overall experience. The events recounted within the book are incredibly complex and emotional, leaving an untapped opportunity to delve deeper into this gripping narrative.

Apart from a few subpar descriptions of gender identity, the author does well in educating readers who may be unfamiliar with this topic. The book also effectively highlights class distinctions and material conditions. It cannot be overstated how vital it is to emphasize these factors if we are to comprehend why such events occurred, particularly in the case of Richard.

The 57 Bus serves as a commendable introduction to understanding the LGBTQ community, specifically the non-binary experience, and systemic racism. However, I feel it does fall short in its writing. Regardless, it's a worthwhile read, offering a quite compelling account of a true and devastating story.

This story is not for the faint hearted. The fact that this is a true story makes it harder to read, but very necessary.

Check out the rest of my review at Mx. Phoebe's Viewpoint. Link in bio.

3/5

Hard to read, really well written, full of empathy. 4.5 stars.

I'm not sure how to describe this book. It was unusual, the way it was written with its use of the pronouns they/them instead of him/her. It enlightened on the discussion about gender we are hearing these days; vocabulary such as binary, agender, cisgender, and genderqueer. The devastation of the 2 families saddens me, as well as the disappointment in our “good ol justice system. An informative, educational read, that's for sure.

This is an important and nuanced story told by an author who clearly worked to write carefully and thoughtfully.

It delves into the relative privileges and disproportionate disadvantages shaping the experiences of both Richard and Sasha in differing and often contradictory ways, based on gender, race, socioeconomic status, and the pertinence of the American criminal justice system to all of the above. You feel for everyone. Sasha and Richard, their family members, their friends. It's very human and very sad.

I would have defined certain terms differently myself, but all in all I think it's very much a book about initially not knowing or understanding certain things and growing to become less ignorant and more compassionate with effort and time.

I wouldn't recommend this book for the following reasons:

1) some characters are portrayed as very innocent, more victims of circumstances who had no understanding of consequences of bad behavior such as truancy and fighting

2) the book contains a significant amount of profanity (perhaps necessary since it is a true story)

3) the story is pretty depressing since it tries to tackle a sweeping variety of societal problems (poverty, drugs, gang violence, teen pregnancy, LGBT assaults)

4) there were a few mildly negative references to authorities (police, judges)

5) the actions of Richard are portrayed as a foolish prank or joke - he lit an unsuspecting stranger on fire in public - I call that arson and assault, but maybe that's just me

I did learn a lot about the “non-binary” community, so a couple stars for some helpful writing in those chapters.

Wow. Just reading the opening intro aloud is going to make a killer booktalk. This book made me cry multiple times and is a nuanced, unbiased, and smartly formatted reporting of a tragic event. Definitely my vote for the YALSA Nonfiction award this year. So much for teens to unpack and reflect on, looking forward to selling this.

This was so compelling, I stayed up too late and read it all in one day. Really nuanced and fair, plus a good primer on both the gender binary and also restorative justice concepts. Would be great for classes/book clubs looking for something to discuss.