Bitter — Akwaeke Emezi

From National Book Award finalist Akwaeke Emezi comes a companion novel to the critically acclaimed PET that explores both the importance and cost of social revolution--and how youth lead the way.

After a childhood in foster care, Bitter is thrilled to have been chosen to attend Eucalyptus, a special school where she can focus on her painting surrounded by other creative teens. But outside this haven, the streets are filled with protests against the deep injustices that grip the city of Lucille.
 
Bitter's instinct is to stay safe within the walls of Eucalyptus . . . but  her  friends  aren't  willing  to  settle  for  a  world  that's  so  far  away from what they deserve. Pulled between old friendships, her artistic passion, and a new romance, Bitter isn't sure where she  belongs -- in  the  studio  or  in  the  streets.  And  if  she  does  find a way to help the revolution while being true to who she is, she must also ask: at what cost? 
 
This  timely  and  riveting  novel -- a  companion  to  the  National  Book Award finalist Pet -- explores the power of youth, protest, and art.