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192
Novel • Fiction
Cincinnati, Ohio • Contemporary
2002
Atheneum Books for Young Readers
YA
10-14 years
Double Dutch by Sharon M. Draper follows eighth-grade students who prepare for a national jump rope competition while navigating personal challenges. Randy, Delia, and Yolanda bond over their struggles, including secrets and self-discovery. The story highlights themes of friendship, determination, and resilience in the face of adversity.
Inspirational
Heartwarming
Challenging
Emotional
Hopeful
Sharon M. Draper's Double Dutch is praised for its engaging plot and realistic portrayal of adolescent challenges. Readers appreciate the diverse characters and the strong friendship themes. Criticisms include a slower pace in some sections and underdeveloped subplots. Despite minor drawbacks, it remains a compelling and heartwarming read for young audiences.
A reader who would enjoy Double Dutch by Sharon M. Draper is typically a young adult interested in contemporary, relatable stories about overcoming challenges, friendship, and personal growth. Similar readers might enjoy Wonder by R.J. Palacio and The Watsons Go to Birmingham—1963 by Christopher Paul Curtis.
Randy Youngblood
Randy is a friendly and mature protagonist with a carefree demeanor who supports the Double Dutch team despite personal challenges. He deals with family issues alone and cares deeply for Delia.
Yolanda Pepper
Yolanda is Delia’s bold and entertaining best friend and teammate on the Queen Bees Double Dutch team. She is known for telling exaggerated stories and enjoys being the center of attention.
Tabu and Titan Tolliver
Tabu and Titan are twin brothers who dress in black and initially seem intimidating to their classmates. They reveal a more sensitive and misunderstood side as the story unfolds.
Misty
Misty is a dedicated and skilled jumper on the Queen Bees from another school. Double Dutch provides her with structure and support during difficult times in her personal life.
Bomani
Bomani is the kind and supportive coach of the Double Dutch team, who plays a significant role in boosting the jumpers' confidence. He becomes an important figure in Randy’s life.
Mr. Youngblood
Mr. Youngblood is Randy’s father, a long-haul trucker who is attentive and beloved in the community. His absence at the beginning of the story is out of character and deeply affects Randy.
Mrs. Douglas
Mrs. Douglas is Delia’s mother, who is caring but sometimes not fully attentive. She becomes supportive when she learns about Delia’s struggles.
Mr. Douglas
Mr. Douglas is Delia’s father, who has remarried after divorcing Delia’s mother. Delia navigates her feelings about her father and his new wife while visiting them on weekends.
Mr. Clifford
Mr. Clifford is the owner of the local pawn shop who subtly supports Randy during a difficult time. He acts as a surrogate father figure, recognizing Randy’s maturity and needs.
192
Novel • Fiction
Cincinnati, Ohio • Contemporary
2002
Atheneum Books for Young Readers
YA
10-14 years
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