BOY 2.0

A Black boy has no reason to trust anyone and a lot to learn about himself.

Ever since he was found by a firefighter as a baby 13 years ago, Win “Coal” Keegan has felt alone. He’d hoped that his latest foster parent, Tom, would adopt him, but after Tom’s sudden mental health episode, Coal is moved to the McKays’ home. They’re nice enough, but trusting is hard for “melanin-rich” Coal, a gentle and thoughtful young artist who’s experienced more than his share of trauma. One day, when he’s chalking the street in commemoration of a young Black woman who was shot during a routine traffic stop, a disgruntled stranger shoots at Coal, triggering an unbelievable response—his skin changes color, camouflaging and protecting him. After Coal eventually opens up to his best friend and the McKay kids, they all get caught up in a world of dangerous secrets, and information about Coal’s birth mom and complicated origins emerges. The novel thoughtfully illustrates some of the harsh realities of being a uniquely vulnerable, dark-skinned boy in a world that refuses to see you and the resulting anxiety that can occur. Luckily Coal is surrounded by people who give him the support he needs in ways that are heartwarming and impressive, and they ultimately lead to a positive place.

An experiment in grace and care that’s as hopeful as it is imaginative.