An intense elevator ride makes for a gripping read in the graphic novel edition of Jason Reynolds’ award-winning book.

By Cristina Olson, School-Age and Teen Services Assistant 

Looking for a fast read that will leave you on the edge of your seat? Pick up Long Way Down by Jason Reynolds, a riveting tale for teen audiences that can handle mature content. The graphic novel edition of the book pairs Reynold’s short novel written in free verse with watercolor illustrations by Danica Novgorodoff that add a uniquely haunting element to every page. The result is an experience that captivates readers and draws attention to serious issues adolescents may face. Keep reading for a summary that will leave you eager to uncover the whole story for yourself.

How long does an elevator take to go down seven floors? That is how long Will has to make a life-changing decision. After his brother is shot dead in front of him, Will knows who did it and he knows he must follow The Rules: “No crying. No snitching. Revenge.” At least, that is what he has been told and what generations before him have always done. 

The seconds tick on. At each floor, Will meets people from his past. But how can that be? They are all dead — shot, the same way as his brother. They each share a piece of a bigger story, and Will begins to question everything. Does he really know who shot his brother?  Why is there a bullet missing from his brother’s gun? What if he misses? What if he breaks The Rules? Will he get off that elevator after a long way down or will he go back up?

A quick read with a lasting impact, Long Way Down: The Graphic Novel sends a powerful message about loss, assumptions and judgment.