Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson

Combine poetry, history, geography and the search for self, stir and you have the batter that is Ms. Woodson's sparkling narrative about a young girl growing up in turbulent times. Some of it, the little girl understands; others, she cannot. Meet the people, places and predicaments she encounters in the tumultuous 60's & 70's as she tries to figure out where and how she fits into the greater scheme of things. The quest of all our elementary students!

An older reader (9+ yr old) will be enthralled by the rich vocabulary and images and will relate to her sense of self-discovery. A younger read-to-er (6+ yr old) will be captivated by the song-like quality of each chapter as well as this fascinating character.

In all instances, what a poignant way to explore the richness of culture and struggle that is unique to all humans!