68 pages • 2 hours read
Scorpions
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Book Brief
240
Novel • Fiction
Harlem, New York • 1980s
1988
YA
10-14 years
610L
Super Short Summary
In Scorpions, twelve-year-old Jamal Hicks faces a dilemma when he is asked to take over his imprisoned brother Randy's role as leader of a gang called the Scorpions in Harlem. Balancing school, family responsibilities, and the pressures of gang life, Jamal struggles with poverty, bullying, and making difficult choices that impact his future. The book contains descriptions of drug abuse, domestic abuse, and gun violence.
Challenging
Gritty
Emotional
Mysterious
Melancholic
Reviews & Readership
2,763 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Scorpions by Walter Dean Myers receives mixed acclaim. Critics highlight its compelling portrayal of inner-city struggles and strong character development, praising its authentic voice. However, some find the narrative bleak and its themes heavy for younger audiences. Overall, it's lauded for addressing important social issues but may be intense for certain readers.
Who Should Read Scorpions?
Readers who would enjoy Walter Dean Myers' Scorpions are typically teens interested in realistic, urban fiction dealing with complex themes like gang life, friendship, and personal growth. Fans of The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton or Monster also by Myers, will find this book compelling for its gritty, authentic portrayal of inner-city struggles.
2,763 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Mama
Mama
Jamal's caring and determined mother, who works hard to support her family while facing personal and financial struggles.
Sassy Hicks
Sassy Hicks
Jamal's eight-year-old sister, who is perceptive and occasionally bickers with Jamal, but shares a protective love for their mother.
Tito
Tito
Jamal's best friend and loyal confidant, who supports Jamal despite his own vulnerabilities, including asthma and family concerns.
Randy Hicks
Randy Hicks
Jamal's older brother currently in prison, whose history with a gang influences many of Jamal's challenges throughout the story.
Jevon Hicks
Jevon Hicks
Jamal's mostly absent father, who is often critical of Jamal and struggles with his own personal failures.
Mack
Mack
Randy's best friend and second-in-command of the Scorpions gang, who exhibits loyalty to Randy and Jamal while also exemplifying some negative aspects of gang life.
Indian
Indian
A member of the Scorpions, whose ambition and demeanor reflect his desire for leadership within the gang.
Angel
Angel
A member of the Scorpions with an ironic name, involved in gang activities and known for his harsh behavior.
240
Novel • Fiction
Harlem, New York • 1980s
1988
YA
10-14 years
610L
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