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This book is stories from the author’s life written is a somewhat lyrical way. She grew up in New York, South Carolina and a little in Ohio during the 1960s when there was a lot of change in general, but particularly for African-Americans. She has a mostly positive perspective, even when dealing with a few difficult things. I really like that she kept it clean and upbeat, while still seeming to be realistic. She pointed out the good in others and found the good in ordinary experiences.
Honestly, I didn't superlove this book. But I couldn't put it down. I gulped it down in one day, and that was even between I-just-got-back-from-vacation amounts of laundry, errands, and such. I was drawn back to the language and characters again and again. It grew on me, and I suspect some of that is due to the second half being stronger than the first, but some of that is that I wanted to know Jacqueline.
I have a feeling Jacqueline Woodson will stay with me a long time. She reminded me at times ...more
I have a feeling Jacqueline Woodson will stay with me a long time. She reminded me at times ...more
Wow! A beautiful memoir, in verse. I started each chapter/poem excited to find out what Woodson would reveal and how she would reveal it. The words. The flow. The imagery. The emotions. Everything was written so perfectly. This is THE model to share with young readers who are interested in learning more about a memoir. It's also a great read aloud.
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This is one of the most remarkable books I've ever read. I'm not a huge fan of poetry or prose and was skeptical that a compelling, understandable story could be told in that medium. Boy, was I wrong. Very accessible, yet poignant and deep. Definitely one of my 2014 favorites.
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This book is excellent. Written in verse, it is the story of the author growing up amidst the Civil Rights movement and it highlights her journey to becoming an author. Loved it.
I don't think I could ever limit myself to one favorite passage from this book. It is beautifully written and a must read. And a must re-read.
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Dec 03, 2014
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