On the Come Up by Angie Thomas is widely celebrated for its authentic portrayal of a young rapper's struggles and triumphs. Critics praise its compelling characters and engaging narrative but note that some plot elements may feel predictable. Thomas's ability to address social issues remains a highlight, cementing the novel's place as a thought-provoking read in contemporary YA literature.

Readers who enjoyed The Hate U Give or Dear Martin will appreciate Angie Thomas's On the Come Up. Suitable for those interested in contemporary YA fiction, issues of race, identity, and social justice, it appeals to fans of exploring the intersection of personal dreams and societal challenges.

In Angie Thomas’s On the Come Up, 16-year-old Brianna "Bri" Jackson dreams of becoming a famous rapper like her late father while navigating the challenges of life in Garden Heights, including financial struggles, racial profiling at her school, and the pressures of the music industry. As Bri's provocative song gains attention, she must balance her desire for success with staying true to herself. Topics include racial profiling, gun violence, and drug addiction recovery.

Inspirational / Emotional / Gritty / Challenging / Hopeful

- On the Come Up is Angie Thomas's second novel, following her bestselling debut, The Hate U Give, which was adapted into a successful film.
- Angie Thomas draws inspiration from her own experiences in hip-hop when creating the story and characters for On the Come Up.
- The book was optioned by Fox 2000 Pictures for a film adaptation before its release, with Angie Thomas serving as a producer on the project.

**Brianna “Bri” Jackson**  
A 16-year-old aspiring rapper from Garden Heights with a deep passion for music, who navigates the challenges of growing up in a single-parent family and a high school where she often feels invisible.

**Jayda “Jay” Jackson**  
Bri's mother, a recovering drug addict who has been sober for years, working hard to support her family while dealing with the judgments of her past mistakes.

**Trey Jackson**  
Bri’s supportive older brother, who despite his academic success, struggles to find a stable job and acts as a parental figure in Bri's life.

**Aunt Pooh**  
Bri's aunt, deeply involved in gang activities, who is both a mentor and an unpredictable figure in Bri's pursuit of a rap career.

Angie Thomas

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Before You Read

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On the Come Up Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “Old School”

Part 1, Chapters 1-4

On the Come Up Part 1, Chapters 1-4 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 5-9

On the Come Up Part 1, Chapters 5-9 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 10-13

On the Come Up Part 1, Chapters 10-13 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “Golden Age”

Part 2, Chapters 14-17

On the Come Up Part 2, Chapters 14-17 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 18-21

On the Come Up Part 2, Chapters 18-21 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “New School”

Part 3, Chapters 22-25

On the Come Up Part 3, Chapters 22-25 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapters 26-30

On the Come Up Part 3, Chapters 26-30 Summary & Analysis

Part 3, Chapters 31-34 and Epilogue

On the Come Up Part 3, Chapters 31-34 and Epilogue Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

On the Come Up Character Analysis

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Themes

On the Come Up Themes

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Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

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Introduction

On the Come Up Teacher Introduction

Before Reading

On the Come Up Before Reading

During Reading

On the Come Up During Reading

After Reading

On the Come Up After Reading

On the Come Up

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