75 pages • 2 hours read
Ordinary Hazards
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Book Brief
336
Memoir in Verse • Nonfiction
1970s
2019
YA
14-18 years
Super Short Summary
Ordinary Hazards by Nikki Grimes narrates the author's challenging childhood, including her experiences with addiction, abuse, and neglect, and her journey through adolescence. Writing and faith become her sanctuaries, helping her cope with her tumultuous life. The book delves into themes such as trauma's impact on memory, emotional support's role in resilience, and creative expression's healing power. The book includes references to child abuse, substance use, addiction, sexual assault, and trauma.
Emotional
Inspirational
Hopeful
Contemplative
Bittersweet
Reviews & Readership
4,067 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Ordinary Hazards by Nikki Grimes is a compelling memoir in verse that has garnered positive attention for its raw emotional depth and lyrical prose. Reviewers praise Grimes' ability to navigate harrowing life experiences with resilience and hope. Some critique the fragmented narrative, feeling it may challenge reader engagement. Overall, it’s a poignant, inspiring read.
Who Should Read Ordinary Hazards?
A reader who would enjoy Ordinary Hazards by Nikki Grimes is likely someone drawn to emotionally potent memoirs and poetry. Fans of Jacqueline Woodson's Brown Girl Dreaming or Maya Angelou's I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings would find this blend of vivid verse and profound autobiography compelling. This book will appeal to readers who appreciate resilience and poetic storytelling.
4,067 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Bernice
Bernice
Nikki’s mother, who struggles with her own personal challenges and has a significant impact on Nikki's early life.
Carol Grimes
Carol Grimes
Nikki’s older sister, who acts as a protective and stabilizing force throughout Nikki's childhood.
Nikki’s Father
Nikki’s Father
A musically talented figure in Nikki's life, who provides her with artistic exposure and love, shaping her intellectual and artistic growth.
336
Memoir in Verse • Nonfiction
1970s
2019
YA
14-18 years
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