I LOVED it! I could relate to the characters so well! ( )

FROM AMAZON: Each of the 18 kids in Mr. Ward's inner-city classroom has something important to say, but some don't even realize it. Then Mr. Ward begins to have "open mic" poetry slams once a month on Fridays. Young adult listeners will identify with the characters in Bronx Masquerade as they explore questions about life and self-expression.

FROM AMAZON: Acclaimed poet, novelist, journalist, and educator Nikki Grimes was born and raised in New York City.

Each of the 18 kids in Mr. Ward's inner city classroom has something important to say, but some don't even realize it. Then Mr. Ward begins to have "open mic" poetry slams once a month on Fridays. Young adult listeners will identify with the characters in Bronx Masquerade as they explore questions about life and self-expression. ( )

a powerful exploration of self, an homage to spoken-word poetry,
and an intriguing look into the life of eighteen urban teens
Nikki Grimes dabbles in watercolors and collage (she created one of the illustrations for One Last Word!), she crafts handmade books, cards and beaded jewelry,
is a textile artist, and once sang, danced and acted her way down the east coast of China.
Her primary passion, though, is writing books for children and young adults
Nikki Grimes (born October 20, 1950) is an American author of
books written for children and young adults, as well as a poet and journalist.

Interesting look at bringing people together, seeing others perspectives and how similar people are
I enjoyed this as an adult and think it would be even more great for younger readers. ( )