An unflinching, honest novel in verse about a teenager's journey into
the slam poetry scene and the dangerous new relationship that could
threaten all her dreams. From the award-winning poet and author of HOME
IS NOT A COUNTRY.
Bad girl. No matter how hard Samira tries, she can't shake her
reputation. She's never gotten the benefit of the doubt--not from her
mother or the aunties who watch her like a hawk.
Samira is determined to have a perfect summer filled with fun parties,
exploring DC, and growing as a poet--until a scandalous rumor has her
grounded and unable to leave her house. When Samira turns to a poetry
forum for solace, she catches the eye of an older, charismatic poet
named Horus. For the first time, Samira feels wanted. But soon she's
keeping a bigger secret than ever before--one that that could prove her
reputation and jeopardize her place in her community.
In this gripping coming-of-age novel from the critically acclaimed
author Safia Elhillo, a young woman searches to find the balance between
honoring her family, her artistry, and her authentic self.