Angie Thomas, renowned author of the critically acclaimed novel “The Hate U Give,” graces us once again with her powerful storytelling in the captivating book, “On the Come Up.”
Set in the same neighborhood as her previous work, this coming-of-age tale takes us on a journey through the struggles and triumphs of Brianna ‘Bri’ Jackson, a young aspiring rapper.
With its thought-provoking themes and relatable characters, “On the Come Up” is a must-read for fans of Thomas’ work and anyone looking for a compelling narrative that explores the complexities of race, identity, and self-expression.
Brief Summary of the Book
“On the Come Up” follows the story of Brianna ‘Bri’ Jackson, a sixteen-year-old girl whose passion for rap and desire to make a name for herself in the music industry drives the narrative.
Set in the fictional neighborhood of Garden Heights, Bri battles against the stereotypes and prejudices that surround her as she navigates her way through the challenges of poverty, violence, and societal expectations.
As Bri’s talent gains recognition, she faces the difficult choice of staying true to herself or compromising her art to achieve success.
Overview of the Movie Adaptation
Fans of Angie Thomas’ work were thrilled when “On the Come Up” was adapted into a movie. Directed by acclaimed filmmaker George Tillman Jr., the movie brings the vibrant world of Garden Heights to life on the big screen.
With its talented cast and faithful adaptation of the source material, the film resonated with both fans of the book and newcomers to Bri’s story. The movie beautifully captures the essence of the characters and the struggles they face, offering a visually stunning and emotionally gripping experience.
Setting and Film Locations of “On the Come Up”
The story of “On the Come Up” is deeply rooted in its setting, the fictional neighborhood of Garden Heights. While the book allows readers to imagine this world, the movie takes it a step further by bringing the neighborhood to life through carefully chosen film locations.
The filmmakers scouted various real-life locations that evoked the spirit of Garden Heights, including neighborhoods in Atlanta, Georgia. The attention to detail in recreating the setting adds an additional layer of authenticity to the film, immersing viewers in the world of Bri and her community.
Introduction to the Main Characters
Brianna ‘Bri’ Jackson, the protagonist of “On the Come Up,” is a strong-willed and passionate young woman determined to make her mark in the rap industry. Alongside Bri, readers and viewers are introduced to a cast of memorable characters who shape her journey.
From her supportive yet overprotective mother to her fiercely loyal friends and the rival artists she encounters, each character adds depth and complexity to the narrative. Angie Thomas crafts these characters with care, allowing readers and viewers to form deep connections and invest in their stories.
Memorable Quotes from the Book and Movie
Throughout “On the Come Up,” Angie Thomas delivers powerful lines that resonate long after the final page is turned or the credits roll. These quotes capture the essence of the characters’ experiences and the broader themes explored in the story.
Some notable quotes include:
- “It’s about control. When they get to decide who you are, they control your destiny.” – Brianna ‘Bri’ Jackson
- “Your silence will not protect you.” – Angie Thomas
- “They can’t kill me with their hate, so they discredit me with their silence.” – Angie Thomas
These quotes encapsulate the struggles faced by Bri and the importance of finding one’s voice in the face of adversity.
Exploring the Soundtrack by Daniel Wohl
Music plays a vital role in “On the Come Up,” both in the book and the movie adaptation. Composer Daniel Wohl collaborates with Angie Thomas to create a powerful and evocative soundtrack that enhances the storytelling experience.
Wohl’s music captures the essence of Bri’s journey, incorporating elements of hip-hop and rap while also delving into the emotional depth of the narrative. The soundtrack serves as a companion to the book and movie, immersing readers and viewers in the world of “On the Come Up” through the power of music.
Curiosities and Hidden Gems in “On the Come Up”
As with any well-crafted story, “On the Come Up” is filled with curiosities and hidden gems that enrich the reading and viewing experience. Angie Thomas expertly weaves in subtle references and connections that keen readers and viewers can discover.
These hidden gems add depth and intrigue to the narrative, rewarding those who pay attention to the details. From subtle nods to her previous work to clever Easter eggs scattered throughout the story, exploring these curiosities adds an extra layer of enjoyment for fans of Angie Thomas’ writing.
Dressing like Brianna ‘Bri’ Jackson: Fashion Inspiration from the Movie
The visual aesthetic of a movie can often inspire fashion trends, and “On the Come Up” is no exception. Brianna ‘Bri’ Jackson’s unique style in the film serves as a source of inspiration for fashion enthusiasts. From her bold and vibrant streetwear to her signature accessories, Bri’s fashion choices reflect her personality and create a visual impact.
Fans of the movie can draw inspiration from Bri’s style and incorporate elements into their own wardrobe, allowing them to channel their inner Bri and embrace their individuality.
Angie Thomas: A Biography and Her 5 Best Works
To truly appreciate Angie Thomas’ brilliance, it is essential to delve into her background and explore her body of work. Born and raised in Jackson, Mississippi, Thomas draws inspiration from her own experiences and the world around her.
In addition to “On the Come Up” and “The Hate U Give,” her best-known works, Thomas has also written other remarkable novels such as “Concrete Rose” and “Dear Martin.” Each of her works tackles important social issues with authenticity and compassion, cementing her status as one of the most influential voices in contemporary young adult literature.
Sanaa Lathan’s Other Media Works Related to “On the Come Up”
In the movie adaptation of “On the Come Up,” Sanaa Lathan delivers a standout performance as Bri’s mother, Jay. Lathan’s portrayal of the complex and loving mother adds depth to the story. While “On the Come Up” showcases Lathan’s talent, she has also left her mark on numerous other projects.
From her acclaimed roles in films like “Love & Basketball” and “The Best Man” to her notable work in television series such as “Shots Fired” and “The Affair,” Lathan’s versatile acting career is worth exploring for fans seeking more of her captivating performances.
10 Similar Movies to “On the Come Up”
If you enjoyed the themes and storytelling of “On the Come Up,” you may find yourself yearning for similar movies that explore similar narratives. Here are ten movies that share similar themes of self-discovery, identity, and the power of art:
- “8 Mile” (2002)
- “Hustle & Flow” (2005)
- “Whiplash” (2014)
- “Patti Cake$” (2017)
- “Dope” (2015)
- “Straight Outta Compton” (2015)
- “Fruitvale Station” (2013)
- “Precious” (2009)
- “Boyz n the Hood” (1991)
- “Moonlight” (2016)
Each of these movies offers a unique perspective on the struggles faced by young artists and the transformative power of their art.
5 Other Works by Angie Thomas
In addition to “On the Come Up” and “The Hate U Give,” Angie Thomas has written other compelling works that deserve recognition. Here are five other books by Angie Thomas that showcase her talent and storytelling prowess:
- “Concrete Rose” (2021)
- “Dear Martin” (2017)
- “Find Your Voice: A Guided Journal for Writing Your Truth” (2021)
- “Blackout” (2021) – co-authored with six other bestselling authors
- “The Hate U Give: The Graphic Novel” (2019) – illustrated by artist Tonya Engel
These works further demonstrate Thomas’ ability to tackle important social issues through compelling narratives across various genres.
Book Club Discussion Questions for “On the Come Up”
For book clubs or individuals looking to delve deeper into the themes and characters of “On the Come Up,” here are some discussion questions to spark meaningful conversations:
- How does Bri’s passion for rap serve as a vehicle for self-expression and empowerment?
- In what ways does the book explore the complexities of identity and the impact of societal expectations?
- Discuss the role of family and community in Bri’s journey. How do these relationships shape her actions and decisions?
- How does Angie Thomas address the issue of systemic racism and inequality through the experiences of the characters?
- What did you find most compelling about Bri’s story, and how did it resonate with your own experiences or perspectives?
These questions offer a starting point for engaging discussions that delve into the depth and impact of “On the Come Up.”
10 Similar Novels with a Similar Plot to “On the Come Up”
If you’re looking to explore more novels with similar themes and narratives to “On the Come Up,” here are ten recommendations that capture the essence of self-discovery, identity, and the power of art:
- “The Poet X” by Elizabeth Acevedo
- “American Street” by Ibi Zoboi
- “Long Way Down” by Jason Reynolds
- “Dear Martin” by Nic Stone
- “The Hate U Give” by Angie Thomas
- “I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter” by Erika L. Sánchez
- “A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder” by Holly Jackson
- “The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian” by Sherman Alexie
- “On the Come Up” by Hannah Weyer
- “Speak” by Laurie Halse Anderson
These novels offer diverse perspectives and explore similar themes of self-discovery and the power of one’s voice.
Buying Guide and Gift Ideas for Fans of “On the Come Up”
For fans of “On the Come Up” or those looking to delve into Angie Thomas’ work, here are some buying guide and gift ideas to enhance the reading and viewing experience:
- “On the Come Up” by Angie Thomas – the book that started it all, allowing readers to immerse themselves in Bri’s journey.
- “The Hate U Give” by Angie Thomas – another powerful novel by Thomas that explores similar themes of race, identity, and activism.
- “On the Come Up” movie soundtrack by Daniel Wohl – a must-have for music enthusiasts who want to relive the emotional journey of the story.
- “On the Come Up” movie poster – a visually stunning piece of art that captures the essence of the film and serves as a reminder of Bri’s resilience.
- Angie Thomas merchandise – from t-shirts to tote bags featuring quotes from her novels, these items allow fans to proudly display their love for Thomas’ work.
These buying guide and gift ideas offer a range of options to celebrate and support “On the Come Up” and Angie Thomas’ remarkable storytelling.
Conclusion
Angie Thomas’ “On the Come Up” is a brilliant and captivating novel that explores themes of self-discovery, identity, and the power of art. With its relatable characters and thought-provoking narrative, the book and its movie adaptation offer a transformative storytelling experience.
From its memorable quotes and soundtrack to the hidden gems and curiosities within the story, “On the Come Up” continues to resonate with readers and viewers alike. As we celebrate the brilliance of Angie Thomas’ work, we also honor her contributions to contemporary young adult literature and eagerly await her future endeavors.
