Is 'One Of The Good Ones' A Novel Worth Reading?

I picked up 'One of the Good Ones' on a whim after seeing it recommended in a book club, and wow, it stuck with me long after I turned the last page. The story follows Kezi, a Black teen activist whose death sparks a road trip by her grieving sister, Happi, to uncover hidden truths about their family—and society. What I loved was how it balances raw emotion with sharp social commentary. The alternating perspectives between Kezi’s idealism and Happi’s disillusionment create this heartbreaking tension. It’s not just a 'message' book; the characters feel achingly real, especially their messy, flawed relationships. The prose is lyrical without being overwrought, and the twists hit hard because they’re grounded in real-world injustices. If you enjoy contemporary YA that doesn’t shy away from tough topics but still centers humanity (think 'the hate u give' meets 'long way down'), this is absolutely worth your time. I finished it in two sittings and immediately texted my friends to read it so we could debate the ending.

One thing that surprised me was how the book plays with the idea of 'being good'—who gets called a martyr, who gets to grieve publicly, and how activism can be performative. There’s a scene where Happi confronts her parents about their selective memory of Kezi that had me putting the book down just to process. It’s not a perfect novel (some secondary characters could’ve used more depth), but its flaws make it feel more authentic. Plus, the road-trip structure keeps the pacing tight while allowing quiet moments of reflection. Whether you’re into family dramas or stories about systemic racism, this one delivers both with a punch.

Let me put it this way: 'One of the Good Ones' wrecked me in the best possible way. It’s the kind of book that makes you stare at the ceiling afterward, questioning everything. The way it explores grief, activism, and sibling rivalry through Happi’s eyes is masterful—she’s not some noble narrator, just a pissed-off, confused kid trying to untangle her sister’s legacy. And the magical realism elements? Chef’s kiss. They sneak up on you, blending seamlessly with the harsh realities of the plot. If you’re on the fence, just read the first chapter. That opening scene at Kezi’s funeral hooked me instantly.