Plot Summary

Clayton Byrd Goes Underground

Rita Williams-Garcia
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Clayton Byrd Goes Underground

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2017

Book Brief

Rita Williams-Garcia

Clayton Byrd Goes Underground

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2017
Book Details
Pages

176

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New York City • Contemporary

Theme
Publication Year

2017

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

720L

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Super Short Summary

In Rita Williams-Garcia’s novel Clayton Byrd Goes Underground, young Clayton Byrd, who loves playing blues alongside his grandfather Cool Papa, embarks on a journey through New York City’s subways after Cool Papa’s sudden death and his mother bans blues, driving Clayton to run away and join a group of busking boys, ultimately leading to a deeper understanding and reconciliation with his mother.

Melancholic

Emotional

Inspirational

Contemplative

Nostalgic

Reviews & Readership

4.2

2,582 ratings

67%

Loved it

27%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Rita Williams-Garcia's Clayton Byrd Goes Underground garners praise for its vivid characters, evocative language, and authentic portrayal of grief and self-discovery. However, some readers feel the pacing lags in parts. Overall, the novel's blend of music, family, and adventure makes it a compelling read for middle-grade audiences.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Clayton Byrd Goes Underground?

Clayton Byrd fans will enjoy Clayton Byrd Goes Underground by Rita Williams-Garcia. Ideal for middle-grade readers who loved Bud, Not Buddy or As Brave As You, this book explores themes of family, loss, and music through the lens of a young boy's heartfelt journey.

4.2

2,582 ratings

67%

Loved it

27%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

176

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

New York City • Contemporary

Theme
Publication Year

2017

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

720L

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