Randall, Julian. Shook. Nathan Walker, Illus. Henry Holt., 08/2026. 256pp. Fiction. Trade $18.99. 978-1-2508-8205-9. GRADES 3–6. OUTSTANDING.
Randall’s novel in verse is a lyrical first-person narrative told from the perspective of upcoming eighth-grader, Malik Page, “Shake,” a black male protagonist from the West side of Chicago. As the captain of the basketball team, he feels pressure to excel, but when he breaks his ankle, everything changes. Riddled with guilt over the cost of his medical care, the challenges of making the varsity team, and the growing distance between him and his best friend, Kayla, Malik navigates a complex world. Randall’s turn of phrase captures the stirring emotions of Shake’s burden to be the best and unearths his building anxiety. More than a sports story, it bridges the difficulties of mental health, family expectations, and friendships. Shortlisted for the 2026 National Book Award for Young People’s Literature, give this to fans of Kwame Alexander’s The Crossover (Clarion, 2015).
Yesica Hurd—Berkeley Public Library