When I bought this book I knew nothing about it except that Lin-Manuel Miranda was making it into a film. I know, a silly reason to buy a book but then I was also very intrigued with the title! I started reading and within a short time, I was grabbing my pencil to underline sentences … Continue reading Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe by Benjamin Alire Saenz
#ComingofAge
Blue Shadows Fall by Lenore Stutznegger
I am probably going to differ from many reviews but in my mind, this is an excellent “coming of age” story of a young woman struggling with who she is in terms of her family, the larger community, and her unique gifts. Blue Haven was born after the end of times, not to mention different, … Continue reading Blue Shadows Fall by Lenore Stutznegger
Nikau’s Escape by Kate S. Richards
This is the third book by Richards that centers around Jabu the young South African man who found meaning in teaching surfboarding and helping kids get off the street and into a caring home. In this novel, we find Jabu traveling to New Zealand to coach his friend Kyle. Once in New Zealand Jabu meets … Continue reading Nikau’s Escape by Kate S. Richards
Our Teenage Years: Growing Up in a Small Town in the ’80s by T J Wray
Childhood is hard enough without having anything different or unique about your experience. When you add your parents getting an awful divorce, moving frequently from town to town, and personal bad choices, life is even more challenging. It is not surprising that many will be able to relate to this story because the truth is, … Continue reading Our Teenage Years: Growing Up in a Small Town in the ’80s by T J Wray
January River by Bernard Jan
This is the story of Ethan. The story begins in his early years and follows him through the majority of his life. Ethan grew up in a small town, had a great home life, was extremely close to his older brother Will, had very good friends, and an amazing dog. For the most part, it … Continue reading January River by Bernard Jan
Ordinary Hazards by Nikki Grimes
Ordinary Hazards is a memoir written in prose. It is beautifully written and easy to read. Nikki reflects on her past as a child of a schizophrenic mother, moving to various foster homes, and discovering who she is amongst the upheaval in her life. I found strength, compassion and even joy within the pages of … Continue reading Ordinary Hazards by Nikki Grimes
Father Figure by James J. Cudney
I read this book in 2 sittings. It is an easy solid read. Cudney switches back and forth between two major characters, Molly (Mom) and Brianna (daughter). For Brianna this is a coming of age story where as Molly is forced to deal with her past. Brianna does not know who her father is and … Continue reading Father Figure by James J. Cudney
Trainsurfer by Kate S. Richards
Jabu is a 12 year old, growing up as an orphan in South Africa. Kyle is a senior in high school, growing up in South Africa. Jabu and Kyle meet on a beach were blacks are allowed. The two boys could not be growing up in more different worlds even though they live in same … Continue reading Trainsurfer by Kate S. Richards
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