Tsundoku reviewed Concrete Rose by Angie Thomas
Prequels can still surprise you
5 stars
Content warning slight spoilers; CW: gun violence
As you know from THUG; Maverick is involved with a gang at this point in his life. It's partially for his own protection (his father was a member and having a gang at your back is really helpful safety wise) but he switches back and forth between selling drugs for financial reasons (and as you should know from the THUG, he has two infants he needs to care for) and trying to be what he feels is a good person.
I should say, this book does not end with Maverick going to prison for the bogus gun charge. That's alluded to. it's gonna happen.
This book is ultimately hopeful, and I would recommend it alongside Dear Martin and Dear Justyce. And of course, read THUG if you haven't already.