Elizabeth reviews: Punching the Air by Ibi Zoboi and Yusef Salaam

I became engrossed in this book the moment I started reading it. I had a strong feeling I would as I have been looking forward to reading this YA novel for some time, and I am especially keen to read more of Ibi Zoboi’s work.

I felt morally obligated to read this work which draws on a number of important topics including that of racism, the criminal justice system in America, a realistic insight of imprisonment, and the importance creative arts have on one’s well-being.

As noted in the address to the reader at the beginning of this book the storyline takes inspiration from the Exonerated Five as well as the Scottsboro Boys, and the Jenna Six case which took place in 2006. This story is told from the viewpoint of a 16-year-old school student called Amal Dawud Shahid who is unjustly incarcerated.

From an early stage within the book, the jury finds Amal guilty as Jeremy Mathis is in a coma and unable to speak the truth. Amal is sent to jail and maintains his innocence throughout, his only mistake was that he had punched Jeremy Mathis first. Amal speaks his truth through his poetry and art throughout the book, which does not go unnoticed by those around him in jail.

The structure of the book is an art form in itself which goes hand in hand with Amal’s talents. The reader meets carefully placed words, thought-provoking headings, and striking illustrative shapes and shadows on some of the pages which ultimately draws on the reader’s eye and soul. Each page incorporates poetic verse which enables the reader to view Amal’s transition from school life to prison in an encapsulating manner. Amal refers to the nature of the butterfly effect, whereby one action can alter the course of one’s life.

The reader cannot help but connect with Amal’s story as he represents, just like his namesake, hope. There is hope that truth prevails and that justice can be achieved. I highly recommend this book as it provides you with a real insight into the inequality of the world still present. It evokes and inspires one to be mindful always, and to fight for what is right, the truth and equality.

You can request a copy of this book here.