Thursday, October 7, 2010

Who Am I Without Him?

Who Am I Without Him?
By Sharon Flake
Jump at the Sun/Hyperion Books for Children, 2004. 168 pgs. Young Adult

Ten short stories explore the relationships of African American teenagers, including a girl who only wants to date white boys, a girl who puts up with her boyfriend's abuse because of her insecurities, and an absentee father writing to his teenage daughter with advice about how to succeed in her relationships with boys.

A 2005 Coretta Scott King Honor book, this book features funny, sweet, and sad stories. Flake does a wonderful job of providing deep characters, even though the stories are fairly brief. This is a great look at urban African American life, but also a great reflection on teens who just want to be accepted and loved.

AE

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