One teenager in a skirt.

One teenager with a lighter.

One moment that changes both of their lives forever.

If it weren’t for the 57 bus, Sasha and Richard never would have met. Both were high school students from Oakland, California, one of the most diverse cities in the country, but they inhabited different worlds. Sasha, a white teen, lived in the middle-class foothills and attended a small private school. Richard, a black teen, lived in the crime-plagued flatlands and attended a large public one. Each day, their paths overlapped for a mere eight minutes. But one afternoon on the bus ride home from school, a single reckless act left Sasha severely burned, and Richard charged with two hate crimes and facing life imprisonment.

The 57 Bus is Dashka Slater’s true account of the case that garnered international attention and thrust both teenagers into the spotlight.

While I was at my local library book club this book was displayed as one of the top YA reads of 2017. The cover and description caught my attention so I decided to check the book out. Needless to say it was a good decision! I finished this book in a few hours. I learned so much while reading this story and it was such an eye opening read. I had no idea this was a true story and I’m really happy with the outcome for both parties. I would have liked to read a follow up on both parties but I can only pray they are both doing well. I know some people can’t sympathize with Richard but I honestly don’t think he was a bad kid. He did something very stupid in my opinion but I don’t think he intentionally set out to hurt Sasha. I really liked how Sasha and their family conducted themselves given the set of circumstances. They were the true definition of forgiveness. I was very impressed with this book and I can’t wait to read more from this author.

4 Book Corner Stars

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