National Book Award Winner Elizabeth Acevedo Returns to YA with “Anger Is Only a Shadow ”— Read an Excerpt! (Exclusive)

**Elizabeth Acevedo Returns to Young Adult Literature with a Poignant New Novel**

Renowned author Elizabeth Acevedo is making her long-awaited return to young adult literature with her upcoming novel, *Anger Is Only a Shadow*, set to be released on 15 September. This marks the first time Acevedo has published a YA book in six years, and it is being hailed as her most intimate work to date. The novel draws inspiration from her past experience teaching poetry workshops at a juvenile detention centre in Washington, D.C., where she worked with young girls awaiting adjudication.

In this novel, Acevedo utilises a blend of poetry and prose to tell the compelling story of Lil, an Afro-Dominican and Indigenous-Salvadoran girl grappling with significant challenges. “When a family member first starts demonstrating symptoms of mental illness, it can be so confusing and lonely for both them and their loved ones,” Acevedo explained in a recent interview. Her narrative sheds light on the complexities of supporting someone coping with schizophrenia, a theme central to the book.

The protagonist, Lil, embarks on a tumultuous journey towards self-discovery, facing struggles related to the criminal justice system as she navigates life under an ankle monitor. Additionally, she finds herself wrestling with a budding romance and her deepening concern for her brother, Aldwin, who begins to show signs of mental health issues. The novel poignantly addresses the question of how one can support loved ones with challenging, and often misunderstood, conditions.

Acevedo’s approach to storytelling remains deeply personal, reflecting her journey as a creative writing instructor and the unique perspectives of the girls she worked with. *Anger Is Only a Shadow* creates a raw and relatable exploration of adolescence intertwined with the experiences of mental illness and familial responsibility.

“Lil navigates the consequences of her choices, the weight of judgment, and the pressures of her situation,” the author teased on Instagram while discussing her protagonist’s evolving narrative. Acevedo’s choice of a poetic format allows readers to engage with Lil’s emotions on a profound level, making her experiences resonate deeply within the reader’s mind.

Within the pages of the novel, Lil deals with the complexities of her relationships and decisions as her court hearing approaches. The story intricately weaves the struggles of youth—freedom, love, and the quest for identity—against the backdrop of real-world pressures and the haunting uncertainty of her brother’s fate. The tension builds as she must decide whether to abide by the rules until her sentencing or risk her future for the sake of her brother.

Acevedo’s previous work, *The Poet X*, was celebrated for its powerful exploration of adolescent life and identity, earning her multiple awards, including the National Book Award for Young People’s Literature. With *Anger Is Only a Shadow*, she aims to further delve into themes of mental health and familial bonds, addressing both the personal and societal implications of such struggles.

Fans of Acevedo’s writing are eagerly anticipating this novel, as the author’s unique voice and perspective resonate with many young readers navigating their own tumultuous experiences. With *Anger Is Only a Shadow*, Acevedo invites her audience to grasp the complexities of mental illness while fostering a deeper understanding of empathy, compassion, and the importance of supportive relationships.

As the release date approaches, excitement continues to build around this impactful narrative. The prominence given to mental health issues within the context of a young adult story signifies a growing awareness and willingness to engage with these essential topics in literature aimed at younger audiences.

Pre-orders for *Anger Is Only a Shadow* are now available through various retailers, ensuring that Acevedo’s insightful and heartfelt journey can reach eager readers as soon as it hits the shelves. For those who may be grappling with similar difficulties, support is readily available for anyone in need, reminding us all of the importance of mental health awareness in our communities.