Reason for Reading: This was one of the books that I planned on reading in my February Social Justice Theme Read and decided I would have to read later this year. (I really WILL read them all, I'm determined!)
Review
Cassie and her brothers are sent reeling by a shockingly racist trial - the culmination of events from the first book in the series, Roar of Thunder Hear My Cry. In addition, Cassie's growing up, so she learns a lot about inter-race relations and the often humiliating effects. This is a heart-rending (though sometimes slow-moving) children's historical fiction. The story deals with complex issues and is character-driven, so even though the reading level is approximately 5th-7th grade, this is not a book for reluctant readers unless they have a particular interest in race relations. It's a book for children who love to read - and to absorb ideas. It's definitely a good addition to the Roll of Thunder Series, and I find myself curious to follow the family's saga to the end. :)
Sounds like this book deals with surprisingly difficult issues for a children's book. It also looks as if it avoids triteness and superficiality. I do think that is actually a good thing. I always believed that we should not underestimate a young persons ability to understand and think about these things.
ReplyDeleteYes, this book (and Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry) weren't shy about introducing difficult ideas it's good to have books like this for kids to read. :)
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