I am too a Brown Girl Dreaming

I am about half way done with Jacqueline Woodson’s award winning book Brown Girl Dreaming.  I was immediately transported into the Woodson family as the author eloquently writes about her life growing up as a child of the north with southern roots.  I related greatly to the stories of taking fried chicken and peaches on the road that grandmother had prepared for the long ride back to the north after spending free-spirited summers in the south.  Although the era was before my time, I am not far removed from the memories of my grandparents playing an integral part in my growing up.  My favorite moments in the book are the experiences that Woodson has when she is around her extended family sitting at their feet soaking in all that she could helping to define who she is as both a Woodson and Irby (paternal and maternal last names).  Stories told of the past and life advice for the future seem to be the very thing that creates a brown girl dreaming.  Woodson's story is so similar to my own and I too see myself as a brown girl with a dream.  I can’t wait to finish the title and share more with you. Until then read on!

Brown Girl Dreaming. (2014) Woodson, J.

The Crossover is a Game-Changer!

Several weeks ago I finally had an opportunity to buy a copy of Kwame Alexander's The Crossover.  I was immediately drawn in by the use of poetic flow that connected each page and chapter like a lyrical tune with fun rhymes and basketball inspired terms.  The twin athletes in the story are like most teenagers.  They deal with school drama, girl drama, and drama at home as they seek to be so much like their former pro-ball father, yet desire to be identified as individuals.  This novel is certainly one that will not be easy to put down for even a quick break.  When I finished the last page I was overwhelmed with emotion and wanted to start from the beginning so that I could once again go on the journey with the characters experiencing their ups and downs, their joys and pains.

If you either appreciate basketball, coming-of-age stories, tales about life, love, and loss, or all of the above you will absolutely want to read The Crossover.  Alexander did an extraordinary job creating a novel that young readers and adults alike can enjoy.  This book is perfect for the reluctant male reader.  If you know one, buy this book for them and read aloud the first page...trust me they will be hooked!

Be sure to check out the Awards & Honors page on this site to find out more information about the Newbery Award won by Kwame Alexander for this esteemed title.