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A review by engmls1724
Take Back the Block by Chrystal D. Giles
5.0
This middle grade novel focuses on Wesley “Wes” Henderson, a curious boy who realizes that his neighborhood, Kensington Oaks, is endangered by a development company looking to gentrify it and its surrounding areas. Along the way, Wes deals with the possibility of losing friends and tries to reconcile connections with a special friend.
The positives include Wes’ characterization and voice throughout the story. I found that his reactions to the impending changes were appropriate for his age, and seemed to handle certain conflicts realistically. I also enjoyed the relationships among his friend group.
Overall, I would recommend this book for middle grade students to learn more about gentrification and its effects on children in diverse, possibly “less prosperous” neighborhoods. This book is also for educators and librarians who work with these students and promote engaging discussion about gentrification and characterization.
The positives include Wes’ characterization and voice throughout the story. I found that his reactions to the impending changes were appropriate for his age, and seemed to handle certain conflicts realistically. I also enjoyed the relationships among his friend group.
Overall, I would recommend this book for middle grade students to learn more about gentrification and its effects on children in diverse, possibly “less prosperous” neighborhoods. This book is also for educators and librarians who work with these students and promote engaging discussion about gentrification and characterization.