Plot Summary

Chanda's Secrets

Allan Stratton
Guide cover placeholder

Chanda's Secrets

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2004

Book Brief

Allan Stratton

Chanda's Secrets

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2004
Book Details
Pages

200

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Sub-Saharan Africa • Contemporary

Theme
Publication Year

2004

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

Lexile Level

590L

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

Chanda's Secrets by Allan Stratton follows sixteen-year-old Chanda Kabele as she navigates life in a small South African town devastated by the AIDS epidemic. With recurring deaths in her community, including her father and baby sister, Chanda faces societal stigma and personal challenges. Her best friend Esther turns to prostitution, while Chanda’s mother slowly succumbs to the illness. Chanda finds strength in confronting the disease's silence and shame, committing to raising awareness and ensuring dignity for those affected. Sensitive topics include illness, death, and violence.

Emotional

Challenging

Hopeful

Inspirational

Heartwarming

Reviews & Readership

4.2

2,461 ratings

68%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Chanda's Secrets by Allan Stratton is lauded for its compelling narrative and deep social insights into the AIDS crisis in Africa. Readers praise its emotional depth and realistic portrayal of characters. However, some find the plot predictable and the pacing inconsistent. Overall, it's an impactful read that brings awareness to significant issues.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Chanda's Secrets?

Readers who would enjoy Chanda's Secrets by Allan Stratton are typically young adults captivated by gripping narratives dealing with serious issues such as HIV/AIDS and societal challenges in Africa. Fans of books like A Long Way Gone by Ishmael Beah or Half of a Yellow Sun by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie would find this novel compelling.

4.2

2,461 ratings

68%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

200

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Sub-Saharan Africa • Contemporary

Theme
Publication Year

2004

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

Lexile Level

590L

Buy This Book

We’re just getting started

Add this title to our list of requested Study Guides!