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Books similar to ‘Nightcrawling’ by Leila Mottley
Thought-provoking books like “Nightcrawling” that explore issues of systemic failures, police brutality, and racism in America.
Published on August 18, 2023
Stories from the Tenants Downstairs
Sidik FofanaFofana’s collection of short stories eloquently captures the everyday struggles and triumphs of the residents at a low-income Harlem high rise that’s threatened by gentrification. Among these residents there’s Kandese, a young girl who loses her home and her father in quick succession; Mimi, a single mother juggling two jobs; and Neisha, a college dropout who once pursued becoming a competitive gymnast. Fofana stylizes and personalizes each story to bring each character’s hopes, dreams, and problems to life.
That Bird Has My Wings: An Oprah's Book Club Pick
Jarvis Jay MastersMasters’ memoir (which, like “Nightcrawling,” is an Oprah Book Club pick) exposes the faults and corruption of both the foster care and juvenile justice systems in America. He describes a childhood filled with adversity, including neglectful and abusive guardians, a family care system that repeatedly failed him, and landing in San Quentin prison at the age of 19. Once caught in the system, he remains incarcerated on death row for the murder of a prison guard, a crime he didn’t commit. At times funny but at many others heart-wrenching, Masters’ message of self-discovery, hope, and redemption has inspired millions.
Anger Is a Gift: A Novel
Mark OshiroLike in Leila Mottley’s book, Oshiro’s gripping debut YA novel also focuses on systemic failures within the Oakland police department. The murder of his father at the hands of a police officer has left Moss Jeffries with anxiety, self-esteem issues, and crippling panic attacks. When the police also kill a fellow student at his high school, Moss learns that anger can be a powerful tool to stand up against injustice.
Find Layla: A Novel
Meg ElisonLike the main character in “Nightcrawling,” Layla struggles to survive on a daily basis, taking on adult responsibilities and doing everything she can to care for herself and her sibling. Despite her chaotic upbringing, she’s determined to survive and pursue her love of science. When Layla’s school project documenting the squalid conditions of her home goes viral, she inadvertently sets off a chain reaction that threatens to upend her whole world. Emotionally gripping and deeply compelling, Layla’s story deftly tackles issues of poverty, abuse, and neglect while highlighting the power of resilience in the face of adversity.
The Hate U Give: A Printz Honor Winner
Angie ThomasThis stunning take on the topic of race and police brutality has quickly climbed the ranks to take its place as one of the greatest YA novels of our time. Starr is living life on a balancing beam. She’s caught between two worlds: her mostly Black neighborhood and her mostly white prep school. As hard as she tries to separate the two, her worlds collide after she witnesses the horrific murder of her friend at the hands of police. Like Mottley’s debut, Thomas’ novel received widespread acclaim upon its release for shining a light on injustice.
The Two Lives of Sara
Catherine Adel WestCommunity, found family, and resilience lie at the heart of West’s story about a young mother seeking a better life for herself and her baby. Sara (first introduced to readers in “Saving Ruby King”) suffers tragedy after tragedy, but she soldiers on with the help of Mama Sugar, the owner of the local boardinghouse, and Jonas, a schoolteacher who dreams of a more equitable future. Richly crafted characters and relationships draw readers into a world tinged equally with hope and heartbreak.
If I Survive You
Jonathan EscofferyEscoffery, an award-winning writer and fellow at Stanford University, offers a linked story collection about a Jamaican American family struggling to overcome racism, poverty, and natural disaster — not exactly the lauded American Dream. Trelawney, the youngest son, is the most prominent character, and we see much of his family’s search for identity and belonging through his eyes. Escoffery draws readers into the rich vibes of 1970s Miami in this story of the immigrant experience.