34 pages • 1 hour read
A Taste of Blackberries
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Book Brief
96
Novel • Fiction
Suburban Southern U.S. • 1970s
1973
Middle grade
8-12 years
670L
Super Short Summary
A Taste of Blackberries by Doris Buchanan Smith is a children’s book that follows the narrator and his best friend, Jamie, as they have various adventures. Jamie’s sudden, tragic death from an allergic reaction to bee stings forces the narrator to confront grief and mortality, ultimately leading him to find acceptance and a way to remember his friend while moving forward with his life. The story includes an emotional depiction of the impact of grief on children.
Melancholic
Emotional
Heartwarming
Bittersweet
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
2,093 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Doris Buchanan Smith's A Taste of Blackberries poignantly addresses the themes of friendship and grief, resonating deeply with readers of all ages. Reviewers praise its emotional depth and realistic portrayal of loss. However, some feel the narrative is too intense for younger children. Overall, a compelling, empathetic exploration of how children cope with tragedy.
Who Should Read A Taste of Blackberries?
A reader who would enjoy A Taste of Blackberries by Doris Buchanan Smith is likely a middle-grade student aged 8-12 who appreciates poignant, emotional stories about friendship and loss. Fans of Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson and Charlotte's Web by E.B. White will find similar themes and emotional depth.
2,093 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Jamie
Jamie
The narrator's best friend, known for his daring and adventurous spirit. He lives across the street from the narrator.
Heather
Heather
A neighborhood friend of the narrator and Jamie, who shares a close bond with them. She is noted for her distinctive golden hair.
Martha
Martha
Jamie’s four-year-old sister, who becomes closer to the narrator and his family. She is characterized by her youthful perspective.
Mrs. Houser
Mrs. Houser
The narrator’s neighbor known for her strict demeanor, often shouting at children who come near her property. She later hires the local kids for a garden task.
Mrs. Mullins
Mrs. Mullins
A neighbor with an overgrown garden who is seen as a bit eccentric by local children. She shares a friendship with the narrator’s mother.
96
Novel • Fiction
Suburban Southern U.S. • 1970s
1973
Middle grade
8-12 years
670L
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