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Harbor Me

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2018

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Book Brief

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Jacqueline Woodson

Harbor me

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2018
Book Details
Pages

192

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Brooklyn, New York • Contemporary

Publication Year

2018

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

630L

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Super Short Summary

In Jacqueline Woodson's novel Harbor Me, six fifth-graders—Amari, Esteban, Tiago, Ashton, Holly, and Haley—forge deep friendships during unsupervised meetings in a classroom called ARTT, sharing personal stories and struggles, such as immigration issues, racism, bullying, and family separation, ultimately finding strength and hope in each other.

Emotional

Contemplative

Inspirational

Heartwarming

Hopeful

Reviews & Readership

4.4

14,367 ratings

83%

Loved it

13%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Jacqueline Woodson's Harbor Me is praised for its poignant exploration of friendship, identity, and social issues through the voices of diverse young characters. Readers appreciate its emotional depth and accessible prose. Some critique the book for its occasionally didactic tone. Overall, it’s considered a meaningful and thought-provoking read for younger audiences.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Harbor me?

Readers who would enjoy Harbor Me by Jacqueline Woodson are typically middle school students or young adults who appreciate heartfelt, character-driven stories about friendship, diversity, and personal struggles. If you liked Wonder by R.J. Palacio or Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson, you'll find this novel equally compelling.

4.4

14,367 ratings

83%

Loved it

13%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Character List

Haley

Haley is the introspective and reliable narrator of *Harbor Me*. Her reflections and insights guide the novel's plot development as she collects the stories of her friends, bolstering her understanding of identity and empathy.

Holly, Haley's best friend, is a vibrant and talkative foil to Haley's introspection. Despite being criticized for materialism, she emerges as a generous and supportive friend who helps Haley navigate her personal challenges.

Amari is a humorous and insightful member of the ARTT group. He creatively names the ARTT room and plays a key role in bonding the group. His growth is marked by his transition from teasing to using his artistic talents to unify friends.

Ashton, the only White boy in his Brooklyn school, faces bullying and identity challenges. His character evolves through engaging discussions, where he finds belonging and support among his ARTT friends.

Esteban is central to the ARTT group's dynamic, as the story of his father's detainment by immigration prompts their creation. His shared experiences with his father's love for poetry strengthen the group's bond, despite his physical absence later in the story.

Tiago, a less talkative Puerto Rican member of the ARTT group, reveals his strength when sharing personal stories about discrimination and loss. His vulnerability and supportive actions underscore the group’s journey to maturity.

Book Details
Pages

192

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Brooklyn, New York • Contemporary

Publication Year

2018

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

630L

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