Everywhere You Don't Belong by Gabriel Bump

Set against the backdrop of Chicago's South Side, this coming-of-age novel follows the life of Claude McKay Love, a young African American boy navigating the challenges of adolescence amidst societal turmoil. Raised by his fiercely independent grandmother, Claude grapples with issues of identity, belonging, and the harsh realities of his environment. As he witnesses the struggles and resilience of those around him, Claude embarks on a journey of self-discovery, seeking to find his place in a world that often feels hostile and unwelcoming. Through humor and poignant storytelling, the narrative explores themes of race, community, and the universal quest for acceptance.