King of the Neuro Verse

A powerful, joyful novel in verse about a Black teen with ADHD who finds self-expression and first love during one epic summer school season, perfect for fans of Jason Reynolds and On the Come Up.

For the third summer in a row, Pernell is back in the classroom, facing the same struggles that have always made school seem more like a battlefield than a place of learning. This summer is different, though: he's battling to become the Cypher King, leader of the lunchroom's impromptu rap circles. Here, the rhythm flows and the words fly, creating a space where the wittiest and most rhythmically inclined reign supreme. Here, Pernell's ADHD gives him an edge.

But life outside the cypher isn't as forgiving. Pernell's English teacher has it out for him. His parents are pressuring him to see a doctor for his lack of focus. And Electra, his friend-slash-crush and the only one who truly gets him, is too busy chasing her dream internship to give him the time of day.

If Pernell doesn't pull himself together, he won't just lose the title of Cypher King--he'll lose his chance to graduate high school. In a world where the systems are turned against kids like him, Pernell needs to find a way to succeed with his ADHD, rather than in spite of it.

Author: Idris Goodwin
Publisher: Atheneum Books for Young Readers
Published: 10/14/2025
Pages: 256
Binding Type: Hardcover
Weight: 0.75lbs
Size: 8.40h x 5.50w x 1.10d
ISBN: 9781665973120
Audience: Young Adult


Review Citation(s):
Publishers Weekly 06/30/2025
Kirkus Reviews 08/15/2025
Bulletin of Ctr for Child Bks 10/01/2025
Booklist 10/01/2025

About the Author
Idris Goodwin is an award-winning neurodivergent storyteller for multiple generations and the author of the picture book Your House Is Not Just a House and young adult novel King of the Neuro Verse. An accomplished playwright, breakbeat poet, content creator, and arts champion, Goodwin is recognized as a culture bearer who celebrates community values and cultivates histories with care. Idris is the author of over sixty original plays, ranging from his hip-hop-inspired breakbeat series to historical dramas to works for young audiences. A dedicated mentor to emerging writers, Goodwin serves as associate professor of dramatic writing at Arizona State University. Find him at IdrisGoodwin.com.