Just as the dedication at the front of Lotus Bloom and the Afro Revolution by author Sherri Winston states, “This book is dedicated to everyone who has ever faced a challenge and decided to stand up and do your own thing.”

Lotus Bloom, a seventh grade violin prodigy, is facing opposition from many fronts and even from people she thought had her back. As she navigates a new school, bullying, tough teachers, parents bickering, and a friend who keeps insisting she join her social justice cause, Lotus has a hard time keeping her cool and seeing the good. Usually she turns to her music, but even that has become stressful as she fights to keep her first chair position in the orchestra. In this coming-of-age story, we see Lotus grow and learn the many lessons as she learns who she is, who she wants to be and how to stay true to that.

Lotus Bloom and the Afro Revolution is a wonderfully diverse novel that brings to light issues that affect many different groups. Lotus is a great example of how to work through difficult situations, especially when the answer is right in front of you. And the lesson of remaining true to who you are is always a good reminder, regardless of your age.

Review of an Advance Reading Copy from the Publisher

Content Analysis:

Profanity/Language: 6 Religious exclamations

Violence/Gore: Boy pushes a girl and makes fun of her hair; racial bullying, reference to Buckwheat (3 times); character recalls parents yelling at each other; character is bullied because of her hair style; adult woman bullies a twelve-year-old; mother slaps her child.

Sex/Nudity: Mother’s boyfriend sleeps over; a female character, with 2 mothers, mentions how one was inseminated with the sperm of the other’s brother.

Mature Subject Matter:

Racial issues and prejudices; homosexuality; divorce; bullying; socioeconomic issues; weight shaming.

Alcohol/Drug Use:

None