Mid-Air
Mid-Air by Alicia D. Williams is a reprint edition published by Simon and Schuster on April 8, 2025. This illustrated middle grade novel in verse follows Isaiah, a tender-souled boy grappling with the loss of his best friend, Darius, who died in a hit-and-run accident. As he navigates the complexities of eighth grade, Isaiah struggles to maintain his friendships and cope with the overwhelming feelings of guilt and grief that accompany Darius’s absence.
In this poignant narrative, readers will find a story that explores themes of self-esteem, social dynamics, and the challenges of growing up. Isaiah’s journey is marked by his attempts to reconnect with his remaining friend, Drew, while also confronting his own vulnerabilities. The book delves into the emotional landscape of loss and the pressure to conform to societal expectations, all while offering a glimpse into the lives of young African American boys in the United States. With 336 pages, this edition presents a heartfelt exploration of resilience and hope.
Official synopsis Publisher
Longlisted for the National Book Award
A tender-souled boy reeling from the death of his best friend struggles to fit into a world that wants him to grow up tough and unfeeling in this stunning illustrated middle grade novel in verse “full of vulnerability and hope” (Booklist, starred review) from the Newbery Honor–winning author of Genesis Begins Again.
It’s the last few months of eighth grade, and Isaiah feels lost. He thought his summer was going to be him and his boys Drew and Darius, hanging out, doing wheelies, watching martial arts movies, and breaking tons of Guinness World Records before high school. But now, more and more, Drew seems to be fading from their friendship, and though he won’t admit it, Isaiah knows exactly why. Because Darius is…gone.
A hit and run killed Darius in the midst of a record-breaking long wheelie when Isaiah should have been keeping watch, ready to warn: “CAR!” Now, Drew can barely look at Isaiah. But Isaiah, already quaking with ache and guilt, can’t lose two friends. So, he comes up with a plan to keep Drew and him together—they can spend the summer breaking records, for Darius.
But Drew’s not the same Drew since Darius was killed, and Isaiah being Isaiah isn’t enough for Drew anymore. Not his taste in clothes, his love for rock music, or his aversion to jumping off rooftops. And one day something unspeakable happens to Isaiah that makes him think Drew’s right. If only he could be less sensitive, more tough, less weird, more cool, less him, things would be easier. But how much can Isaiah keep inside until he shatters wide open?
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