some places more than others by renee watson

Although the ending feels rushed, with no resolution between Amara and her mom, Amara’s concluding poem is powerful.Ī moving exploration of the places we come from and the people who shape us-not to be missed.Īt a time when death has become an acceptable, even voguish subject in children's fiction, Natalie Babbitt comes through with a stylistic gem about living forever. Through her all-black cast she seamlessly explores issues of identity, self, and family acceptance. Watson is a master at character development, with New York City and especially Harlem playing central roles.

Harlem proves unlike any place Amara has ever been, and as she explores where her father grew up she experiences black history on every street. In addition to the school project, her mom gives Amara a secret mission: get her dad and grandpa to spend time alone together to repair old wounds. When Amara gets a family-history assignment, she is finally able to convince her mom to say yes to the trip, since it will allow Amara to meet her dad’s side of the family in person. A new baby sister is on the way, her mom still wants to put her in dresses, and that birthday trip from the Portland, Oregon, suburbs to New York City that she so desperately wants feels out of reach. On a birthday trip to New York City, a girl learns about her roots, Harlem, and how to stay true to herself.Įleven-year-old sneakerhead Amara is struggling to feel seen and heard.

Some places more than others by renee watson