Tyler Johnson Was Here

By: Jay Coles

Narrated by: JaQwan J. Kelly

A young man searches for answers after the death of his brother at the hands of police in this striking debut novel, for readers of The Hate U Give.

When Marvin Johnson's twin, Tyler, goes to a party, Marvin decides to tag along to keep an eye on his brother. But what starts as harmless fun turns into a shooting, followed by a police raid.

The next day, Tyler has gone missing, and it's up to Marvin to find him. But when Tyler is found dead, a video leaked online tells an even more chilling story: Tyler has been shot and killed by a police officer. Terrified as his mother unravels and mourning a brother who is now a hashtag, Marvin must learn what justice and freedom really mean.

Tyler Johnson Was Here is a powerful and moving portrait of youth and family that speaks to the serious issues of today--from gun control to the Black Lives Matter movement.

Critic reviews

An Entertainment Weekly Most Anticipated Book of the Year

"Exploring the current climate of police brutality and viral culture, this harrowing YA effort is based on its author's own experiences with tragedy and loss, a personal touch felt across every page."—Entertainment Weekly

"An unflinching look at police brutality and systemic racism in America."—Bustle

* "This well-written, fast-paced story eloquently addresses how to grieve, plan, and participate in the burial of a loved one....[A] standout debut."—School Library Journal, starred review

* "Unforgettable....Coles' exploration of brotherhood, grief, friendship, and familial ties is as moving and relevant as its exploration of racism."—Booklist, starred review

"Coles...pens an immersive and uncompromising look at systemic police violence in the U.S., effectively dramatizing the human experience and ethical questions underpinning today's Movement for Black Lives."—Kirkus Reviews

"A distressing yet empowering portrait of a black teenager confronting relentless racism, brutality, and tragedy."—Publishers Weekly

"Clear-eyed, authentic, and heartfelt, Tyler Johnson Was Here is a captivating must-read."—Karen M. McManus, New York Times bestselling author of One of Us Is Lying

"Jay Coles' powerful, anguished debut novel...garners worthy comparisons to 2017's award-winning The Hate U Give."—BookPage

"Coles's contemporary novel addresses real issues facing black teens in the U.S. today, and is a powerful story full of heart, packing a deep emotional punch."—VOYA

"An impactful story....Stirring and heartbreaking."—The Bulletin

"Uncompromising and intense, this heart-wrenching novel sends out an anguished cry for justice to all who are willing to hear."—Shelf Awareness

"Gripping from the very first scene, Tyler Johnson Was Here is a powerful and vulnerable immersion into the lives of people who are too rarely given a voice."—Adi Alsaid, author of Let's Get Lost and Never Always Sometimes

"Tyler Johnson Was Here refuses to pull its punches. Marvin's story will remake you. The careful prose, the heartbreaking story, but also the triumph of a young man in the face of an often lightless world. Jay Coles delivers the first book in what will be an illuminating career."—Scott Reintgen, author of Nyxia

Powerful Story

In the same vein as "The Hate U Give" and "All American Boys," "Tyler Johnson Was Here" packs an emotional and heart wrenching punch. After Marvin's twin brother goes missing, he and his mother fears for the worst. When they learn that Tyler was shot by a police officer they are outraged. Amid sadness and depression, they also seek justice for Tyler's death. A strong story and moral message.

Excellent! Awesome Narration!!!

What a well written and breath taking book by the author, Jay Coles. It will be extremely hard to put this book down as the narrator, JaQwan J. Kelly takes you on an emotional journey. I felt as if I was right there in the midst with every character. I cried, laugh and became angry. I highly recommend this book.

Amazing

Love how JaQwan does an amazing job or portraying Marvin in this story!! It made me laugh at times but cry as well.

Good, But Not Great

I fear Angie Thomas has spoiled me. This story was good, though a bit predictable, and not as great as the others like it on the market. However, it is definitely a story we need to hear. The narration was wonderful (including the TV elemental effect was nice).

nicely written and a define page turner

definitely something I would recommend. I do wish we heard what happened at the trial but other than that I loved it