BOOK BRIEF

From the Notebooks of Melanin Sun

Jacqueline Woodson
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From the Notebooks of Melanin Sun

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1997

Book Brief

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Jacqueline Woodson

From the Notebooks of Melanin Sun

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1997
Book Details
Pages

141

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Realistic Fiction

Children`s Literature
Setting

Brooklyn, New York • 1990s

Theme
Family
Topic
Race & Racism

LGBTQ+
Publication Year

1997

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-16 years

Lexile Level

690L

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Super Short Summary

From the Notebooks of Melanin Sun by Jacqueline Woodson explores the journey of a young person named Melanin Sun as he navigates identity, family dynamics, and societal expectations. Through introspective entries, Melanin encounters understanding and acceptance in his relationships, bringing to light themes of love, self-discovery, and personal growth.

Contemplative

Emotional

Challenging

Melancholic

Heartwarming

Reviews & Readership

4.0

1,580 ratings

65%

Loved it

26%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Jacqueline Woodson’s From the Notebooks of Melanin Sun is praised for its authentic portrayal of a young boy's struggle with identity and societal expectations. Critics commend its emotional depth and relatable characters, though some feel the narrative pace is uneven. Overall, the novel is celebrated for its impactful exploration of complex social themes.

Who should read this

Who Should Read From the Notebooks of Melanin Sun?

Readers who appreciate From the Notebooks of Melanin Sun by Jacqueline Woodson likely enjoy introspective, coming-of-age stories exploring identity and family, akin to The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros and The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie.

4.0

1,580 ratings

65%

Loved it

26%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

141

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Realistic Fiction

Children`s Literature
Setting

Brooklyn, New York • 1990s

Theme
Family
Topic
Race & Racism

LGBTQ+
Publication Year

1997

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-16 years

Lexile Level

690L

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