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Long Way Down summary
Brief summary
Long Way Down by Jason Reynolds is a gripping novel in verse that follows 15-year-old Will as he takes a journey down an elevator, seeking revenge for his brother's murder. Each floor brings new revelations and forces Will to confront the cycle of violence.
Table of Contents
Long Way Down
Summary of key ideas
Understanding the Cycle of Violence
In Long Way Down by Jason Reynolds, we are introduced to Will, a fifteen-year-old boy who has just lost his brother, Shawn, to gun violence. The story begins with Will finding his brother's gun and deciding to take revenge on the person he believes is responsible for Shawn's death. As he steps into the elevator, he is determined to follow the rules of his neighborhood: no crying, no snitching, and always seek revenge.
However, as the elevator descends, Will is visited by the ghosts of people who have been killed by gun violence. These individuals, including his brother, share their stories and the circumstances of their deaths. Through these encounters, Will begins to question the cycle of violence and the rules he has always followed. He realizes that his decision to seek revenge will only perpetuate this cycle, leading to more deaths and more ghosts.
Challenging the Norms
As the elevator stops at each floor, Will is confronted with the harsh realities of his neighborhood. He meets Buck, a friend of Shawn's who gave him the gun, and learns that Shawn was involved in the same cycle of violence that he is now a part of. He also encounters Dani, a girl who was killed by a stray bullet, and realizes that innocent people are often caught in the crossfire of these senseless acts of violence.
These encounters force Will to confront his own beliefs and the rules he has always followed. He begins to question whether seeking revenge is truly the right thing to do. He understands that the cycle of violence will continue unless someone has the courage to break it. Will he be that person?
Breaking the Cycle
As the elevator reaches the ground floor, Will is faced with a choice. He can either follow the rules and seek revenge, or he can break the cycle of violence. In a powerful moment of realization, Will decides to let go of the gun and walk away. He chooses to honor his brother's memory by not perpetuating the cycle of violence that took his life.
By the end of Long Way Down, Will understands that the rules he has always followed are not set in stone. He realizes that true courage lies in challenging these norms and making a different choice. The book ends with Will walking out of the building, leaving the gun behind, and taking the first step towards breaking the cycle of violence in his community.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Long Way Down is a poignant and thought-provoking exploration of the devastating impact of gun violence on individuals and communities. Through Will's journey, Jason Reynolds challenges us to question the norms and expectations that perpetuate this cycle of violence. The book serves as a powerful reminder that change begins with a single choice, and breaking the cycle of violence requires immense courage and strength.
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What is Long Way Down about?
Long Way Down by Jason Reynolds is a gripping novel-in-verse that takes place in the span of just sixty seconds. It follows fifteen-year-old Will as he takes an elevator down to seek revenge for his brother's murder. Along the way, he is visited by ghosts from his past, forcing him to confront the cycle of violence and make a life-altering decision. This powerful and thought-provoking book delves into themes of grief, family, and the impact of gun violence.
Long Way Down Review
Long Way Down (2017) by Jason Reynolds is a gripping novel that takes place during a fateful elevator ride. Here's why you should give this book a read:
- Explores themes of violence, loss, and revenge, providing a thought-provoking look into the cycle of gun violence in urban communities.
- The novel is written in verse format, creating a unique and impactful reading experience that adds depth and emotion to the story.
- With its tense atmosphere and surprising twists, the book keeps you on the edge of your seat, ensuring you won't be able to put it down.
Who should read Long Way Down?
- Readers who enjoy powerful and thought-provoking young adult literature
- Individuals interested in exploring the impact of gun violence on communities and individuals
- Those who appreciate unique and innovative storytelling techniques
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Long Way Down FAQs
What is the main message of Long Way Down?
The main message of Long Way Down is the cycle of violence and the impact it has on individuals and communities.
How long does it take to read Long Way Down?
The reading time for Long Way Down varies from person to person, but it typically takes a few hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is Long Way Down a good book? Is it worth reading?
Long Way Down is a powerful and impactful book worth reading. It explores important themes of grief, loss, and the consequences of violence.
Who is the author of Long Way Down?
Jason Reynolds is the author of Long Way Down.
What to read after Long Way Down?
If you're wondering what to read next after Long Way Down, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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- Savor by Thich Nhat Hanh and Lilian Cheung
- Eat to Live by Joel Fuhrman
- Nutrition and Physical Degeneration by Weston A. Price
- Salt Sugar Fat by Michael Moss
- Mindless Eating by Brian Wansink
- The Twenty-four Hour Mind by Rosalind D. Cartwright