37 pages • 1 hour read
If You Come Softly
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Book Brief
224
Novel • Fiction
New York City • 1990s
1998
YA
12-18 years
HL570L
Super Short Summary
If You Come Softly by Jacqueline Woodson follows the love story of Ellie, a white girl from Upper West Side Manhattan, and Jeremiah, a Black boy from Fort Greene, Brooklyn. Despite societal challenges and racial prejudices, they form a strong connection. This young adult novel alternates between their points of view, exploring themes of love, identity, and race as they navigate their relationship in New York City. The story includes violent encounters and racial discrimination.
Emotional
Bittersweet
Contemplative
Inspirational
Melancholic
Reviews & Readership
12,843 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
If You Come Softly by Jacqueline Woodson receives widespread acclaim for its emotional depth and lyrical prose, tackling themes of race, love, and identity with sensitivity. Some criticisms note a perceived predictability and desire for deeper character development. Overall, the poignant narrative and authentic voice resonate strongly with readers.
Who Should Read If You Come Softly?
Readers who enjoy poignant, contemporary YA novels about interracial relationships, teenage love, and societal challenges will be captivated by Jacqueline Woodson's If You Come Softly. Fans of Angie Thomas' The Hate U Give and Nicola Yoon's The Sun Is Also a Star will find this book compelling.
12,843 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Jeremiah “Miah” Roselind
Jeremiah “Miah” Roselind
A 16-year-old Black boy from Fort Greene, Brooklyn, who navigates creative influences and racial challenges while attending Percy Academy.
Marion Eisen
Marion Eisen
Ellie’s mother, who struggles with her parenting role due to past absences and is working on understanding her daughter.
Nelia Roselind
Nelia Roselind
Jeremiah’s mother, a writer who supports her son through life’s complexities and maintains a strong bond with him.
224
Novel • Fiction
New York City • 1990s
1998
YA
12-18 years
HL570L
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