Dope Sick
Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2009
208
Novel • Fiction
Harlem, New York • 2010s
2009
YA
14-18 years
HL720L
In Dope Sick by Walter Dean Myers, 17-year-old Jeremy "Lil J" Dance hides from the police in an abandoned building after a crime gone wrong, focusing on his conversations with a mysterious figure named Kelly, who offers a magical TV to explore Lil J's past decisions and their consequences, as he reflects on his life and the possibility of a different future. The book addresses substance abuse, crime, and systemic poverty.
Gritty
Dark
Emotional
Unnerving
Challenging
2,061 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Walter Dean Myers' novel Dope Sick garners praise for its compelling narrative and deep exploration of urban youth struggles with drugs and violence. While the character development is strong and authentic, some readers feel the plot occasionally lacks subtlety. Overall, Myers' raw and emotional storytelling delivers a powerful message.
Readers who would enjoy Dope Sick by Walter Dean Myers are likely teens and young adults interested in gritty, urban stories that explore themes of addiction, identity, and redemption. Fans of The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas and Long Way Down by Jason Reynolds will find the book's raw emotion and complex characters appealing.
2,061 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
208
Novel • Fiction
Harlem, New York • 2010s
2009
YA
14-18 years
HL720L
We’re just getting started
Add this title to our list of requested Study Guides!