Reviews

Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson

protoman21's review against another edition

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4.0

This is certainly a story that has weight to it, but I hesitate to heap praise on it because I can't help but wonder if children will actually enjoy reading it. As an adult, I can appreciate how Woodson overcame different struggles on her way to becoming the woman she is today, but I wonder how many kids will find these struggles gripping when compared to the grand adventures found in many other books. That's not to say there isn't a place for a book like this on a library shelf, but I envision many teachers assigning this in class and many students hating it.

goodem9199's review against another edition

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5.0

Can I a-million-star this? Jacqueline Woodson's talentis beyond breathtaking. Beyond comparison. Beyond description. I want to give this book to every person I know. She is just so damn good. Newbery necessary for this one.

lillycarroll_'s review against another edition

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reflective fast-paced

3.0

fannachristine's review against another edition

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lighthearted medium-paced

4.0

elleisntabell's review against another edition

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4.0

This was so beautiful and I really absolutely cannot wait to read more of Woodson's work.

 

lastpaige111's review against another edition

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5.0

I'm not usually a big fan of novels and memoirs written in verse. Brown Girl Dreaming is an exception, because the verse is luscious, evocative, and melodic. Woodson interweaves themes and history seamlessly in this poignant and authentic chronicle of growing up brown in the Civil Rights era.

book_concierge's review against another edition

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5.0

Digital audio performed by the author.
5*****

Jacqueline Woodson is an award-winning author and poet. This memoir of her childhood, growing up in the turbulent 1960s is written entirely in free verse.

In it Woodson explores family dynamics; the differences between “the North” (Brooklyn) and “the South” (South Carolina), between generations, between religious beliefs; and the hopes, ambitions and obstacles to success faced by a young black girl in 1960s America. The language is appropriate and accessible for the target middle-school audience, but eloquent and complex enough to engage and interest adults.

I loved how she related the importance of a teacher who recognized and celebrated her gifts rather than focus on her struggles with learning, and who encouraged her to believe that she WAS a writer. As well as the importance of a family who nurtured and supported her, despite divorce and the upheaval of moving several states away.

The audio version is performed by the author. I cannot imagine anyone else doing a better job of conveying the emotion of her story.

rjdenney's review against another edition

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5.0

How to listen #7

Even the silence
has a story to tell you.
Just listen. Listen

- Jacqueline Woodson

This has to be one of the best books I've ever read and I hate myself for not picking it up sooner. If you're looking for something to read during Black History Month, I'd say this is a MUST. Please read this, there is no way you will be disappointed. The writing is beautiful, lyrical, and deep. I loved it.

abaugher's review against another edition

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5.0

Beautiful autobiography in verse. Woodson, you bring to life so fully your history wiht just a few perfectly chosen words!

bybemoulden's review against another edition

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emotional hopeful inspiring reflective medium-paced

5.0