Swing by Mary Rand Hess and Kwame Alexander is a compelling mix of prose and poetry that explores themes of friendship, love, and baseball. Many readers appreciate its heartfelt narrative and relatable teenage characters. However, some note that the blend of styles can be disorienting. Overall, it’s praised for its emotional depth and engaging storytelling.

Readers who enjoy Swing by Mary Rand Hess and Kwame Alexander are typically teens or young adults who appreciate contemporary stories with themes of friendship, love, and personal growth. Fans of Jason Reynolds' Long Way Down or Angie Thomas' The Hate U Give will likely find this book compelling.

In Swing by Kwame Alexander and Mary Rand Hess, high school juniors Noah and Walt "Swing" Jones navigate friendship, passions, and personal challenges. Walt chases his baseball dreams and spreads his love for jazz and "hug life" philosophy, while Noah secretly wrestles with his artistic talents and feelings for their friend Sam. This young adult novel, told in verse, creatively intertwines jazz and poetry. Themes of violence, death, police brutality, and systemic racism are included.

Emotional / Hopeful / Contemplative / Bittersweet / Nostalgic

- Swing incorporates jazz music elements, reflecting how both authors, Mary Rand Hess and Kwame Alexander, are influenced by and appreciate the genre.
- The authors use a combination of prose and verse in the book, demonstrating their unique storytelling style and poetic prowess.
- Swing explores the theme of finding one's rhythm, which is symbolic of how jazz music operates through improvisation and personal expression.

**Noah**  
A thoughtful and artistic teenager who values his close friendships and is passionate about writing poems and creating visual art. He is caring and supportive, especially towards his best friend Walt/Swing and his longtime friend Sam.

**Walt "Swing"**  
A lively, optimistic, and quirky character who is passionate about baseball and jazz. He is Noah's best friend and often encourages him to pursue his goals despite obstacles.

**Sam**  
A kind and supportive friend of Noah and Walt/Swing who often confides in Noah. She values romantic gestures and has a close, trusting friendship with Noah.

**Mo**  
The older brother of Walt/Swing who is a veteran returning from military service. He is admired by Walt/Swing and faces challenges with his mental health after his deployment.

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Who Should Read Swing?

Noah

Walt "Swing"

Sam

Mo