GUEST WRITER BRYN HAINES RECOMMEDS MID AIR BY ALICIA D. WILLIAMS
“And yo, be like water, I tell him.
Always, He says.”
Mid-Air by Alicia D. Williams is a compelling coming-of-age novel in verse, blending poetic form with emotional depth to tell the story of Isaiah, a 13-year-old boy navigating life-altering events. Through vivid and heartfelt verse, Williams delves into themes such as violence, grief, racism, gender identity, friendship, and self-discovery, all while maintaining an engaging flow.
The narrative follows Isaiah and his two best friends, Darius and Drew, as they bond over their shared love of biking,
skateboarding, music, and basketball. The story begins with a goal- to break the world record for the longest bike wheelie. As the trio embarks on this adventure, a confrontation with a man from the neighbourhood escalates, drawing the attention of onlookers. In a tragic turn of events, Darius dies, leaving Isaiah and Drew devastated and forever changed.
Isaiah, the quiet, tender-souled member of the group, is consumed by guilt and grief. He and Drew decide to spend the summer breaking every record they can think of, for Darius. His relationship with Drew becomes strained, as neither can fully face the trauma of that day. As Isaiah grapples with his sorrow, he begins questioning everything: his identity, his interests, his friendships and why he’s so sensitive compared to Drew.
One day, something unimaginable happens to Isaiah, making his parents force him to spend time with relatives in the country. There, Isaiah embarks on a journey of healing. Through new friendships and experiences, he finds strength, confidence, and, most importantly, himself.
Williams’ verse is stunningly powerful, making Mid-Air not only accessible to middle school readers but also deeply resonant for older students. Its limited text per page holds immense emotional weight, making it an excellent choice for reluctant readers. Mid-Air is a rare gem—both heartfelt and unflinching in its portrayal of young people confronting complex issues.
Bryn Haines is a student in the midst of her Bachelor of Education degree. She is a graduate of an Applied Arts degree and a Diploma in Fine Craft Ceramics. With a passion for the arts, Bryn is an aspiring Visual Arts teacher. She loves a good book, the outdoors, and all things art.