Bright Red Fruit - by Safia Elhillo

About the Book

"A coming-of-age novel-in-verse about a teenager's journey into the slam poetry scene and the dangerous new relationship that could threaten all her dreams"--

Book Synopsis

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.

Review Quotes

★ "A stunning work that deeply explores poetry, the complexities of identity, and the longing for love."--Kirkus Reviews, starred review

★ "A mesmerizing verse novel and a gripping exploration of the hyper-policing of Black girls' bodies and sexuality."--Publishers Weekly, starred review

★ "Elhillo has created more than a cautionary tale. Much like the tale of Persephone's abduction, she has crafted a story that contains misery, but at its very core, harbors hope." --Booklist, starred review

"Elhillo creates a realistic picture of a teenage girl trying to push against unfair perceptions. Readers will appreciate the believable portrayal of a teen who is dealing with complex issues of family, friendship, and romantic love." --The Horn Book

"Told through emails, letters, and poetry in its many forms, Samira's story becomes one to remember." --School Library Journal

"An achingly gorgeous novel in verse that explodes with emotion and heart."--Kim Johnson, bestselling author of This is My America and Invisible Son.

"Crackles with energy...In a word, gorgeous."--Samira Ahmed, New York Times bestselling author of Internment and Hollow Fires.

About the Author

Safia Elhillo received the Michael L. Printz Honor for Bright Red Fruit and is a renowned poet and author. Her debut YA novel in verse, Home Is Not a Country, was longlisted for the National Book Award and received a Coretta Scott King Author Honor and an Arab American Book Award. Sudanese by way of Washington, DC, Safia is a Pushcart Prize nominee, co-winner of the 2015 Brunel International African Poetry Prize, and listed in Forbes Africa's 2018 "30 Under 30." She lives in Los Angeles.