Review of Mid-Air by Alicia D. Williams
The moment I spotted the vibrant cover of Mid-Air by Alicia D. Williams, I felt an undeniable pull. Perhaps it was the electrifying energy that radiated from the skateboard-inspired graphics or the whisper of nostalgia it seemed to evoke. As a former kid who once imagined soaring through the air atop my Huffy banana bike, I was intrigued to dive into this verse novel that captures the essence of adolescence—the thrill of risk-taking, the weight of loss, and the beautiful mess that is growing up.
Mid-Air introduces us to eighth grader Isaiah Randolph, a character so rich and relatable that you can practically hear him breathing. From the outset, we immerse ourselves in Isaiah’s world, where daring feats on skateboards and BMX bikes are as exhilarating as the very real challenges of friendship and identity. The novel begins with the intoxicating buzz of teenage bravado: "I Bet You is how it always begins." This line set the stage for an exploration of the bonds formed and tested through friendly wagers and wild ambitions. Isaiah, his best friend Darius, and their new pal Drew embody that quintessential youthful spark, believing they can achieve the impossible.
The narrative doesn’t shy away from the heavy themes that hang over their antics. When a moment of reckless joy turns into a tragedy, the fallout becomes more than just a plot point; it’s a deeply affecting examination of grief and growth. Williams masterfully illustrates how Darius’s untimely death isn’t just an event, but a seismic shift that reshapes Isaiah and Drew, challenging them as they navigate the often tumultuous waters of middle school friendship. The rawness of Isaiah’s introspection, especially as he grapples with personal insecurities and societal expectations surrounding his Black identity, is moving. "Hold it. Breathe," he reflects—a mantra that resonates deeply as he searches for grounding amidst chaos.
What stood out most for me was Williams’ poetic style, cultivating an engaging rhythm that pulls you in. The pacing flows with the energetic beats of youth—fast and frenzied one moment, reflective and poignant the next. The use of verse also makes the reading experience feel immediate, as if each poem is a snapshot of a fleeting moment in these boys’ lives. Williams’ ability to weave humor and heartbreak seamlessly is striking; I found myself laughing one minute and holding back tears the next.
Moreover, the novel’s rich exploration of skate culture, particularly the allure of Twin Peaks as a skater’s paradise, invites readers into a vibrant subculture that is as exhilarating as it is intimidating. It’s a reminder of the fleeting nature of youth—where every risky maneuver can lead to triumph or tragedy.
I believe Mid-Air will resonate with tweens and teens, especially those trying to find their footing amidst the tumult of adolescence. Anyone who has faced grief, navigated friendship, or simply yearned for connection will find solace and understanding within these pages.
For me, reading Mid-Air was a poignant reminder of my own tumultuous youth, rich with daring dreams and the imperfections that come with growing. Alicia D. Williams has crafted a novel that isn’t just about the thrill of skateboarding; it’s about the breathtaking highs and lows of personal flight. Grab your copy and prepare to soar emotionally, because this book is sure to rock you.