The 57 Bus by Dashka Slater
This non-fiction book tells the true story of two teenagers from Oakland, California, whose lives intersect on a city bus. One, a black teen from a rough neighborhood, and the other, a genderqueer white teen from a middle-class background, are brought together by a reckless, tragic act of violence. The book explores themes of gender, race, and justice as it delves into the circumstances that led to the incident, the aftermath of the crime, and the complex personal and societal factors that shape the lives of the individuals involved. Through meticulous reporting and compassionate storytelling, the narrative examines the consequences of the event for both families and the community at large, challenging readers to consider the nuances of empathy and forgiveness.