Brown Girl Dreaming by Jaqueline Woodson

I am reading my way through the 2015 Award books.  The first one I am reviewing is a Newbery Honor book by Jaqueline Woodson, called Brown Girl Dreaming.  I have always loved Ms. Woodson's books and her writing style.  Some of my fiction favorites are Locomotion and Feathers, and a picture book entitled, The Other Side.  She is an extremely gifted poet and with minimal, beautiful text she takes complex situations and makes you see them and understand her point of view.  Brown Girl Dreaming is Ms. Woodson's memoir, so it will be found in the biography section of the library.  In the book, Jacqueline describes her life as a little girl.  She introduces you to the events and important family members that loved her and shaped the person she became.  She does all of this through powerful poetry.

This would be a great read aloud for teachers that want to discuss poetry, memoirs, and race relations in the United States.  You will be impressed by the beautiful style of Woodson's writing, and who knows, maybe your students will be inspired too!

Reviewed by Mrs. Castro