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37 pages 1 hour read

Sharon M. Draper

Darkness Before Dawn

Sharon M. DraperFiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2001

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Book Brief

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Sharon M. Draper

Darkness Before Dawn

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2001
Book Details
Pages

288

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Cincinnati, Ohio • 2000s

Publication Year

2001

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

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Super Short Summary

Darkness Before Dawn by Sharon M. Draper follows high school senior Keisha Montgomery as she navigates the aftermath of her boyfriend's suicide and faces new challenges, including threat from a manipulative student-teacher, while drawing on her friendships and family support to cope and grow. The book addresses themes such as loss, trauma, and recovery for teenagers. This novel contains the sensitive topic of date rape.

Emotional

Dark

Inspirational

Unnerving

Heartwarming

Reviews & Readership

4.6

5,980 ratings

81%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Darkness Before Dawn by Sharon M. Draper receives a mix of praise and criticism. Readers commend its realistic portrayal of complex teen issues and strong character development. However, some feel the plot is predictable and the pacing uneven. Overall, it's seen as a compelling yet sometimes challenging read that effectively addresses serious themes.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Darkness Before Dawn?

Fans of contemporary young adult fiction tackling real-life issues will appreciate Darkness Before Dawn by Sharon M. Draper. Similar to novels like Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson and Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher, it engages readers with its intense, emotive exploration of identity, trauma, and resilience.

4.6

5,980 ratings

81%

Loved it

15%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

288

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Cincinnati, Ohio • 2000s

Publication Year

2001

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

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