About This Book
This acclaimed verse memoir by Jacqueline Woodson offers a deeply personal and lyrical account of her childhood in the 1960s and 70s. Told through vivid poems, it explores her experiences growing up as an African American girl, moving between the segregated South and the bustling North, and finding her voice as a writer. The book sensitively addresses themes of racial identity, family bonds, loss, and the challenges and joys of self-discovery, making it a powerful read for middle-grade children and a valuable tool for discussing history and personal narrative.
Newbery Honor Book National Book Award Finalist
Concepts
Self-Confidence & IdentityLove & FamilyCreativity & ImaginationResilience & PerseveranceCuriosity & WonderSadness & GriefJustice & FairnessFriendship & LoyaltyLoneliness & BelongingEmpathy & KindnessFear & BraveryHonesty & IntegrityCultural IdentityGrowing UpBeing DifferentDeath of a Loved OneMovingMaking FriendsFamily & SiblingsHistorySchool Life
prejudice_racism
Character Death
separation_from_parent
illness
Discussion Prompts
1
How does Jacqueline's experience of growing up in the South compare to her experience in the North? What were the differences and similarities?
2
How did Jackie find her voice through writing, even when reading was difficult for her?
3
What does this book teach us about family, community, and standing up for what you believe in?
4
How do the poems help tell Jackie's story in a unique way?
5
What challenges did Jackie and her family face because of their race, and how did they show resilience?
External Reviews
Awards
1 award
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