This is a touching book that focuses on the significance of love, legacy, and loyalty.  Amara, our narrator, dreams of going to New York and spending time with her extended family.  Even at eleven years old, she leaves a sharp impression on the reader.  As her dream comes true, she gets to see the statues and proof of the many heroes of African American heritage.  The reader gets a chance to learn a little history as the story unfolds and Amara learns that spending time together comes with lots of fun and sometimes a few challenges too.  As Amara experiences the adventures of New York City, she finds a bit of her identity in those she loves and the history they share.  Little does she know how much this trip will change her perspective on life.  It’s heart-warming that Amara’s relatives aren’t portrayed as perfect, and they have a few issues they’re dealing with, too.  This book also addresses loss, specifically a grandmother and a few miscarriages by Amara’s mom, but the author handles them well in an age appropriate way.  The author, Renee Watson, makes the hard times and good memories a part of the relationships that shape a family.  

Forgiveness, family, and heritage are big themes in this story and Renee Watson has done a marvelous job presenting how the consequences of our actions and the actions of other relatives can impact everyone.  The author helps the reader see that listening is important to dynamics and even though every household has its challenges, forgiveness is always an option.  Although this is a middle grade book, adults might find it entertaining, too.  The pacing is fun and enjoyable.  Renee Watson has written at least five books. 

Review of an Advanced Reading Copy

This book was sent to Compass Book Ratings for review by Bloomsbury Children’s Books

Content Analysis:

Profanity/Language:  None 

Violence/Gore:  Multiple mentions of 11-year-old girl’s mom having had multiple miscarriages, no description or gore; multiple mentions of the previous death of a grandparent.  

Sex/Nudity:  None

Mature Subject Matter:

Miscarriage, death of grandparent, deteriorated family relationships, father in prison. 

Alcohol / Drug Use:

None