Book Review #1

Jacqueline Woodson’s novel Miracle’s Boys is a brilliant and original narrative of the grief and suffering experienced by three orphan brothers. Themes of freedom, guilt, and brotherhood, echo throughout the pages. Lafayette, Charlie, and Ty’ree learn the power of communication and though this exchange, begin to understand the full-bodied definition of freedom. Sprinkled with familiar references to music, poetry, art, and film, Woodson creates a sentiment of nostalgia. With both earnestness and tenderness the boys unfold their nightmares and guilt as they discover the healing power of their brotherhood. Within a day’s time a bond manifests itself among the brothers providing their escape from the suffocating hate, hostility, and resentment that has torn their lives apart. With fervent applause I recommend this literature to both the young and old seeking both an entertaining and emotional experience.

Posted online through Borders

Reading Journal #3 Miracle's Boys

If the Coretta Scott King Award is dedicated to Peace, Non-violent Social Change, and Brotherhood, then Jacqueline Woodson’s novel Miracle’s Boys has justly earned the recognition. Lafayette searches for peace and understanding of his parents’ death and his brother’s attitudes. Through questioning and reflection, he discovers the truths of these events and pieces them together to form a new identity and perspective. Ty’ree works hard to maintain peace in the household and his character is a solid example of diplomacy, negotiation, compromise, and leadership. He is a believable personality, a person with strong convictions, hopes and a good grasp of reality. Additionally, Woodson uncovers his flaws, further demonstrating his humanity and providing a realistic model for young readers. Charlie also seems to arrive at a place of peace as he describes their life as a work of art, almost as if he can appreciate their situation. I believe the three of them find acceptance and eventually comfort in their individual misery and despair.
Woodson does a phenomenal job of unveiling the multiple faucets of each boys’ personalities. She demonstrates the possibility of forgiveness, change, and new beginnings. Charlie’s character is angry and rageful, however he resists expressing himself through violence and aggression –a good demonstration for others at times of overwhelming frustration and perhaps resentment. Ty’ree’s academic aspirations are inspiring, and readers will be left hopeful that he will have the opportunity to achieve those goals. It is an important point when he tells Lafayette of his decision to stay and take care of his brothers instead of going to MIT. The significance of their family unity and brotherhood is their individual salvation from the hardships of the world. When the brothers come together and open up to each other, they began to understand and work out their feelings, allowing them to focus on their future and find contentment in their life together.

Reading Journal #2 A Step From Heaven by An Na

Worthy of the Michael L. Printz Award for excellence in young adult literature, A Step from Heaven is a rich and satiating work of literature. It is unlike any other book I have read recently. An Na implements her own customized writing style that continually and effectively engages the reader into the thoughts and depths of emotions experienced by Young Ju. The progression of the writing style mirrors the development of Young Ju as she begins to make sense of the world around her in the midst of confusion and inconsistency.

I think this novel provides us a unique perspective on the various uses and subsequent meanings of language. I would like to explore the almost lyrical tone set forth on each page as well as the different types of vocabulary used by An Na. A discussion of linguistics might be appropriate, especially when considering the phonetic spellings, the challenges of learning a new language while simultaneously preserving and treasuring the native language, and the associated translation, interpretation, jargon, and typology. Questions such as: how has word choice, sentence structure, and format enriched this text and what are the consequences of these decisions? What difference has the language made in our reading? What difference has the language/stream of consciousness style made in our understanding of Young Ju's life? What does this mean for us as readers/writers? How is this applicable in our understanding and studies of ______(fill in the blank, acculturation, adolescence, family dynamics, immigration...)?

An Na produces a fresh reading of a young girl in transition, her writing is a portrait of the power and sovereignty of language.

Reading Journal #1 "This pretty little flower..."

The deserving winner of the 2007 Coretta Scott King/John Steptoe New Author Talent Award, Traci L. Jones’ Standing Against the Wind was an exciting, thrilling, and motivating read. Readers are given the opportunity to experience the personal, educational, and social development of the young and ambitious protagonist, Patrice. Relationships are explored as Patrice discovers how to evaluate and express her feelings toward Monty, (her protector and friend), as well as her mother, (a stranger in her life). As she gains the courage to shamelessly voice her thoughts and emotions, she begins to reflect on her attitude and behavior. She soon realizes her worthiness allowing her confidence and self-image to bloom. Along with the new-found sense of an identity invaluable, Patrice is steadfast and unwavering in accomplishing her educational goals. The story is a surprising and uplifting encounter of determination in the face of obstacles.

I would recommend this novel to those seeking motivation and inspiration, especially in an academic context. The author develops the characters in such a way that facilitates a reader-character bond. This keeps the story interesting and entertaining as she draws from common young adult experiences and emotions. While reading about Patrice’s troubles at school, I relived my memories of being the new and sometimes pick-on kid at school. I was able to relate and feel comforted by our commonalities. Patrice became even more of a heroine as I learned of her difficult and burdensome home life –something I can only imagine. I predict that this book is capable of gaining great appreciation from a wide variety of readers –anyone looking for an encouraging, inspirational, and enjoyable experience.

Traci L. Jones Author Interview