About This Book
A parent would reach for this book when their teenager is feeling overwhelmed by the weight of the world, particularly the intersection of social injustice and personal anxiety. It is a vital resource for a child who feels 'suffocated' by current events or who struggles to find the words to express their complex feelings about race and safety in America. The book uses a unique combination of visceral art and minimalist verse to capture the feeling of living through the early COVID-19 era and the Black Lives Matter movement. Through the lens of a young Black boy and his family, the story explores themes of resilience, the healing power of family, and the search for 'oxygen' in a world that often feels like it is running out of air. It is a deeply emotional, artistic experience that validates a teen's feelings of fear while gently pointing toward hope and connection. While the themes are heavy, the brevity of the text makes it accessible for reluctant readers or those who are emotionally exhausted.
