35 pages • 1 hour read
Street Love
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Book Brief
134
Novel • Fiction
Harlem, New York • Contemporary
2006
YA
14-18 years
NP0L
Super Short Summary
Street Love by Walter Dean Myers, a middle grade novel in verse, follows Black teenagers Damien Battle and Junice Ambers in Harlem as they navigate love and socioeconomic challenges. Damien, bound for Brown University, falls for Junice, who struggles with her mother’s incarceration and caring for her family. Themes of forbidden love and economic disparity are explored through free verse poetry. The novel includes a slur against Romani people.
Romantic
Emotional
Gritty
Challenging
Inspirational
Reviews & Readership
1,416 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Walter Dean Myers' Street Love is praised for its poetic prose and vivid depiction of Harlem life. The novel's unique verse format and exploration of love amid urban struggles resonate strongly with readers. However, some find the character development lacking. Ultimately, it's an innovative and emotional read that captivates with its lyrical storytelling.
Who Should Read Street Love?
Street Love by Walter Dean Myers will captivate readers who enjoy modern, urban romances and poetic storytelling akin to Romiette and Julio by Sharon M. Draper. Young adults attuned to lyrical prose, complex characters, and themes of love amidst adversity will find this novel engaging and thought-provoking. Suitable for fans of contemporary YA fiction.
1,416 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Junice Ambers
Junice Ambers
A Black seventeen-year-old living in Harlem with her grandmother and younger sister; she grapples with her underprivileged background and strives to improve her family's circumstances.
Kevin
Kevin
Damien’s best friend, characterized by his street smarts and vibrant personality; he provides support and perspective to Damien, especially regarding his relationship with Junice.
Leslie Ambers
Leslie Ambers
Junice’s incarcerated mother, whose actions and situation have a significant impact on Junice and her family.
134
Novel • Fiction
Harlem, New York • Contemporary
2006
YA
14-18 years
NP0L
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