40 pages • 1 hour read
Forged By Fire
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Book Brief
160
Novel • Fiction
Cincinnati, Ohio • 1990s
1997
YA
12-18 years
780L
Super Short Summary
Forged by Fire by Sharon M. Draper tells the story of Gerald Nickelby, a young African American boy in Cincinnati who faces significant challenges, including family neglect, abuse, and the loss of loved ones; navigating these hardships, he forms a strong bond with his half-sister, Angel, and finds solace in friends and sports while striving for a better future. This book contains scenes involving physical and sexual abuse, drug addiction, and significant injuries.
Emotional
Challenging
Melancholic
Suspenseful
Inspirational
Reviews & Readership
10,243 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Forged By Fire by Sharon M. Draper is a compelling young adult novel that delves into themes of resilience and family struggle. Positive insights highlight Draper's skillful character development and emotionally engaging narrative. Some negative critiques mention a predictable plotline and occasional melodrama. Overall, it is considered impactful and thought-provoking.
Who Should Read Forged By Fire?
Readers who would enjoy Forged By Fire by Sharon M. Draper are typically young adults who appreciate emotionally charged, realistic fiction exploring themes of resilience, family struggles, and personal growth. They might also enjoy The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas and Monster by Walter Dean Myers for their powerful, thought-provoking narratives.
10,243 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Monique
Monique
Gerald’s mother, a woman struggling with addiction and dependence who finds herself unable to provide stability and care for her family.
Angel
Angel
Gerald’s delicate and shy half-sister, who faces significant challenges and begins to find healing through dance.
Aunt Queen
Aunt Queen
Monique’s nurturing and strong-willed aunt who becomes a pivotal influence in Gerald’s upbringing and moral development.
Jordan Sparks
Jordan Sparks
Gerald’s manipulative and abusive stepfather, whose actions create major conflicts within the family dynamic.
160
Novel • Fiction
Cincinnati, Ohio • 1990s
1997
YA
12-18 years
780L
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