Discover books similar to "November Blues"

Sharon M. Draper

November Blues

4.31

"November Blues" by Sharon M. Draper is a young adult novel that explores the complexities of grief, identity, and relationships. The story follows Eleven-year-old Jordan Jackson, who is trying to come to terms with the death of her beloved older brother, Eric, who was killed in a gang-related shooting. The novel takes place over the course of a single month, November, and follows Jordan as she navigates the challenges of her daily life while also grappling with the emotional turmoil of her brother's death. Draper expertly portrays the range of emotions that Jordan experiences, from denial and anger to sadness and acceptance. One of the novel's greatest strengths is its depiction of the ways in which grief affects not just the individual who is experiencing it, but also the people around them. Draper explores the impact of Eric's death on Jordan's family, friends, and community, highlighting the ripple effect that violence and loss can have on a community. Another notable aspect of the novel is its exploration of identity and self-discovery. Jordan is at a pivotal point in her life, and the loss of her brother forces her to confront her own sense of self and her place in the world. Through her interactions with her friends and family, Jordan begins to understand her own strengths and weaknesses, and to develop a sense of agency and self-reliance. Draper's writing is clear and evocative, and she has a knack for creating complex and relatable characters. The pacing of the novel is well-balanced, and the story never feels forced or contrived. Overall, "November Blues" is a powerful and moving exploration of grief, identity, and community, and it is a must-read for anyone who has experienced loss or is navigating the challenges of adolescence...

List of books similar to "November Blues":

Angie Thomas

The Hate U Give

This book is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that follows the story of Starr, a 16-year-old girl who witnesses the fatal shooting of her unarmed best friend by a police officer. With themes of racism, police brutality, and social justice, this book is a great choice for readers who enjoyed 'November Blues' by Sharon M. Draper as it deals with similar issues in a compelling and authentic way.

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Walter Dean Myers

Monster

This novel is a powerful and thought-provoking story about a 16-year-old boy named Steve who is on trial for murder. The book is written in the form of a screenplay, diary entries, and court transcripts, providing a unique and engaging perspective on the criminal justice system. This book is a great choice for readers who enjoyed 'November Blues' by Sharon M. Draper as it deals with similar themes of race, justice, and the challenges faced by young people in difficult circumstances.

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Sharon G. Flake

The Skin I'm In

This novel tells the story of Maleeka, a 13-year-old girl who is teased and bullied because of her dark skin. With themes of self-acceptance, identity, and the power of friendship, this book is a great choice for readers who enjoyed 'November Blues' by Sharon M. Draper as it deals with similar issues of self-discovery and the challenges faced by young people.

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Jacqueline Woodson

Brown Girl Dreaming

This novel is a memoir in verse that tells the story of Jacqueline Woodson's childhood in the 1960s and 1970s. With themes of family, identity, and the power of words, this book is a great choice for readers who enjoyed 'November Blues' by Sharon M. Draper as it deals with similar issues of self-discovery and the challenges faced by young people.

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Kwame Alexander

The Crossover

This novel is a powerful and engaging story about a 12-year-old boy named Josh, who loves basketball and poetry. With themes of family, friendship, and the challenges of growing up, this book is a great choice for readers who enjoyed 'November Blues' by Sharon M. Draper as it deals with similar issues of self-discovery and the importance of relationships.

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Mildred D. Taylor

Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry

This novel tells the story of the Logan family, who live in Mississippi during the Great Depression. With themes of racism, family, and the struggle for justice, this book is a great choice for readers who enjoyed 'November Blues' by Sharon M. Draper as it deals with similar issues of social justice and the challenges faced by young people.

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Lois Lowry

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This novel tells the story of Jonas, a 12-year-old boy who lives in a seemingly perfect society where everything is controlled and regulated. However, as Jonas begins to learn the truth about his world, he realizes that it is far from perfect. With themes of identity, freedom, and the power of choice, this book is a great choice for readers who enjoyed 'November Blues' by Sharon M. Draper as it deals with similar issues of self-discovery and the challenges faced by young people.

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