Quick Summary: On the Come Up is a powerful novel by Angie Thomas that follows a young girl named Brianna whose dream is to become a successful rapper. As she navigates her way through the challenges of growing up in a difficult environment, Brianna learns about family, identity, and the importance of staying true to herself.
On the Come Up Book Summary
Brianna, known as Bri, grows up in BTS (the best neighborhood she knows) in Garden Heights, a neighborhood facing economic struggles and various social issues. At only sixteen, her passion for rapping shines brightly, fueled by the legacy her late father left behind. He was a well-known rapper who struggled with his career and ultimately passed due to a shooting in their neighborhood. This tragic past creates a backdrop for Bri’s current struggles with identity and the pressures of the world around her.
Bri’s journey begins when she gets suspended from school for standing up against a teacher she feels disrespected her. This incident amplifies her frustration about being misunderstood and not being taken seriously. With her family facing financial troubles after her father’s death, Bri feels the pressure to make it big as a rapper. She starts to write lyrics that express her thoughts and experiences, which resonate deeply with her. Bri’s mother works hard to keep the family afloat while dealing with the scars of loss and looking after Bri’s brother, who is a strong emotional support yet struggles in his own way.
As Bri works on her music, she quickly realizes that being an artist means entering a world filled with both opportunity and challenges, including the risk of being misunderstood and judged by others. She develops an admiration for her father’s legacy but constantly compares herself, grappling with the fear of not being good enough. Throughout her journey, Bri meets new friends and mentors who help guide her, offering advice that helps her shape her talent and navigate the industry.
However, the world of rap is not just full of positives. Bri faces the judgment of her peers, the pressure of gang violence in her neighborhood, and the scrutiny of a social media-driven society. At one point, an incident involving her staying true to her authentic self creates controversy that threatens her reputation. The conflict places her at a crossroads where she needs to make tough decisions about her identity and the paths she can take.
Through the ups and downs of her journey, Bri learns what it means to find her own voice and represent her experiences authentically. Her encounters with various characters in the book, including her family and friends, aid in the development of her character as they each provide nuanced perspectives on the music industry and the complexities of life in Garden Heights. With the constant struggle to understand how much of herself to put into her art, Bri ultimately discovers the importance of staying true to who she is without sacrificing her integrity.
Lessons From On the Come Up
Lesson 1: Authenticity is Key
In the world of rap and music, authenticity holds significant importance. Bri learns early on that being true to herself is integral to her success. Throughout the story, she battles with the pressure to conform to what others want her to be. These pressures come from both her peers and the expectations set by the industry. The lesson here is clear: to thrive creatively, one needs to embrace their uniqueness. Bri’s journey becomes an inspiring reminder that no matter the expectations placed upon us, we must celebrate our individuality.
Bri’s experiences teach readers that embracing who you are can create a powerful narrative. Those in the audience might be looking for something genuine, and projecting authenticity can resonate deeply when it connects genuinely. This lesson can extend beyond Bri’s life to how we all can assess our personal integrity in everything we do, be it in our studies, friendships, or passions. It emphasizes the importance of representing oneself and one’s community faithfully, especially in creative expressions.
Lesson 2: The Power of Resilience
The importance of resilience is a recurring theme throughout On the Come Up. Bri faces numerous challenges that threaten to deter her from pursuing her rap dreams. Despite the obstacles she encounters, from family issues to conflicts at school, she remains determined to rise above her circumstances. This resilience is critical for anyone chasing their dreams, especially in difficult environments. Bri reminds us that life can be tough, but perseverance is key to achieving our goals.
This lesson highlights that resilience is not just about bouncing back from failure; it’s also about continuing to pursue one’s passion and dreams despite adversities. Bri’s experiences show that resilience allows individuals to transform challenges into opportunities for growth. It demonstrates to the reader that tough experiences often shape us into stronger individuals, guiding us to find our purpose. Bri’s example encourages readers to keep pushing, regardless of their setbacks, as resilience ultimately leads to personal growth and success.
Lesson 3: The Significance of Community
Throughout On the Come Up, Bri’s relationship with family, friends, and her neighborhood demonstrates the strength found in community. Each character contributes to her growth by providing emotional and moral support while sharing their experiences and wisdom. This is particularly evident in the dedication Bri’s mother shows in raising her children and the love Bri has for her late father and brother. Each of these connections strengthens Bri’s resolve to pursue her dream. This level of support showcases the notion that achievement is often rooted in shared experiences and bonds.
This lesson extends to the importance of seeking support from those around us. It emphasizes how navigating life’s challenges is often easier when we have a strong support system. Community uplifts individuals, encouraging them to keep going when times get hard. Bri’s relationships act as a fortress against the trials she faces, and through shared struggles and victories, the community collectively celebrates together. It provides a reminder that reaching out to others for help, and in turn offering our support, fosters personal and communal growth.
On the Come Up Book Review
On the Come Up received widespread acclaim for its relatable characters, strong narrative voice, and pressing themes. Angie Thomas succeeds in painting a vivid picture of Bri’s struggles while combining humor, heart, and authenticity. The novel tackles serious subject matter, such as poverty, violence, and family dynamics, without shying away from the harsh realities of life. Yet it retains an optimistic tone, inspiring readers to believe in their strength and talents.
Readers resonate with Bri’s evolution as she matures from a girl with dreams to a young woman who understands the complexities of pursuing a passion in an unforgiving world. The blend of hip-hop culture and the daily struggles of Bri’s neighborhood illustrates a vibrant setting that adds depth to the story. Thomas’s skill in crafting relatable characters allows readers to engage with the narrative on deeper emotional levels.
Overall, the book emphasizes that artistry, in this case, rapping, serves as a powerful tool for expression and empowerment. It conveys the message that creativity can serve as an escape and a means to voice one’s truth. The captivating language and relatable themes make it both an informative and enjoyable read for middle-grade readers and beyond.
Who Would I Recommend On the Come Up To?
This book is highly recommended for young adults and middle-grade readers. It speaks to anyone interested in the themes of self-identity, resilience, and the pursuit of dreams. Readers who enjoy stories with strong character development and social commentary will find this book appealing. It is especially relatable for those who may feel pressured by societal expectations or are exploring their own identities.
Additionally, anyone interested in music and rap culture will appreciate the depth and authenticity of the references in the story. This includes aspiring musicians and artists who are navigating similar struggles in their own lives. The book also provides valuable life lessons about community and support that can resonate with readers of all ages, making it a powerful read for everyone.
Final Thoughts
On the Come Up serves as a poignant reminder of the significance of staying true to oneself amidst the challenges of life. Bri’s experiences navigate through family dynamics and grappling with one’s identity become relatable to many readers, especially young adults. Through resilience, authenticity, and the strength of community, the book imparts important lessons that can support individuals during their own journeys.
Overall, Angie Thomas’s second novel successfully builds upon her initial success with The Hate U Give, solidifying her voice as a storyteller who tackles pressing social issues while embedding heartfelt and relatable themes. If you are interested in exploring stories that highlight personal struggles and urban life, On the Come Up will certainly leave an impact.