Author Guide
Angie Thomas Books in Order
Complete reading list for Angie Thomas — from The Hate U Give to Concrete Rose.
About
Angie Thomas is an American author from Jackson, Mississippi. She began writing The Hate U Give in 2014 in response to the pattern of police violence against Black Americans. Published in 2017, it became one of the most discussed and most challenged books in American schools, was named a National Book Award finalist, and was adapted into a film starring Amandla Stenberg in 2018.
Reading order: Start with The Hate U Give. Read Concrete Rose after — it is a prequel but hits harder when you know Maverick's future.
All Angie Thomas Books
Listed in publication order.
1
The Hate U Give
2017
EssentialStarr Carter witnesses a police officer shoot her unarmed childhood friend. National Book Award finalist.
2
On the Come Up
2019
Bri, a teenage rapper trying to make it in her father's footsteps, navigates fame and responsibility.
3
Concrete Rose
2021
THUG PrequelA prequel following Starr's father Maverick as a teenager. Can be read first or after THUG.
4
Nic Blake and the Remarkables
2023
Middle GradeMiddle-grade fantasy debut. A girl discovers she has magical abilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Hate U Give appropriate for adults?
Completely. It is published as YA but widely read and praised by adults. The subject matter — police violence, race, identity, grief — is not simplified.
What does "The Hate U Give" mean?
A reference to Tupac's THUG LIFE tattoo — "The Hate U Give Little Infants F***s Everybody." That hatred society gives young people comes back to harm society.
Should I read Concrete Rose before or after The Hate U Give?
After. It is richer when you already know who Maverick Carter becomes.