About This Book
Reach for this book when your adolescent is struggling with an unexpected change in the family dynamic or holds rigid, judgmental views about people from different backgrounds. It is a powerful tool for opening a dialogue about class, privilege, and the complexity of empathy. The story follows Feni, a young girl from a wealthy Black family, as she navigates the arrival of Rebecca, a pregnant teen from a tougher neighborhood who comes to stay with them. Jacqueline Woodson masterfully handles themes of jealousy, loneliness, and the breaking down of stereotypes. While the premise involves teen pregnancy, the focus remains on the developing friendship and mutual understanding between the two girls. It is a sophisticated read for ages 11 to 15 that teaches that someone's external circumstances do not define their worth or their heart. Parents will appreciate the nuanced portrayal of a supportive, non traditional family and the realistic growth Feni undergoes.
