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45 pages 1 hour read

Push

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1996

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Book Brief

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Sapphire

Push

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1996
Book Details
Pages

192

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Harlem, New York • 1980s

Publication Year

1996

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Push by Sapphire follows Precious, a 16-year-old Black girl in 1987 Harlem who faces immense hardship and abuse, including illiteracy, rape, incest, pregnancy, and HIV. Despite these challenges, Precious finds hope and self-worth through an alternative education program where, supported by caring individuals, she learns to read, write, and rebuild her life.

Dark

Gritty

Emotional

Challenging

Hopeful

Reviews & Readership

4.2

56,841 ratings

68%

Loved it

23%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Push by Sapphire has been praised for its raw and powerful portrayal of an abused teenager's quest for self-discovery and empowerment. Critics commend its emotional intensity and authentic voice. However, some note that its graphic content and starkly bleak outlook may be distressing for some readers. A compelling, though difficult, read that sparks deep reflection.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Push?

A reader who would enjoy Push by Sapphire is one drawn to gritty, emotional narratives of resilience and survival. This reader appreciates unflinching portrayals of trauma and redemption, similar to the themes in The Color Purple by Alice Walker and Bastard Out of Carolina by Dorothy Allison.

4.2

56,841 ratings

68%

Loved it

23%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

Character List

CLAIREECE “PRECIOUS” JONES

A 16-year-old Black teen who is the narrator and protagonist, facing numerous personal challenges while seeking a better life through education.

Precious's first child, a daughter with Down syndrome who lives in institutional care, born as a result of abuse.

Precious's second child, whom she loves and cares for, symbolizing hope for a new beginning.

Precious’s abusive mother, who contributes to her difficult home life and denies the reality of her situation.

Precious’s father, known only through memories as an abuser and absent from her life.

Precious’s supportive teacher at the alternative school who helps her find her voice and potential.

A fellow student in Precious's class, initially judged by her appearance, who proves to be a supportive and assertive peer.

A fellow student with a past of addiction and hardship, who befriends Precious and offers insight and support.

A classmate who initially seems different to Precious but becomes a close friend, sharing her own complex story through poetry.

Book Details
Pages

192

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Harlem, New York • 1980s

Publication Year

1996

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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