56 pages • 1 hour read
The Coldest Winter Ever
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Book Brief
544
Novel • Fiction
Brooklyn, New York • 1990s
1999
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Coldest Winter Ever by Sister Souljah follows Winter Santiaga, the daughter of a wealthy Brooklyn drug lord. Her family's move to Long Island is short-lived as her father's arrest leaves them destitute. Summer navigates the harsh realities of homelessness, while her siblings enter foster care and her parents face legal and addiction issues. Winter's survival instincts and self-centeredness propel her into deeper entanglements with the criminal world. The language used reflects hip-hop and street culture, interspersed with Winter's candid thoughts and experiences, offering a gritty portrayal of life affected by drugs, violence, and incarceration.
Gritty
Dark
Suspenseful
Challenging
Emotional
Reviews & Readership
59,348 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Reviews for The Coldest Winter Ever by Sister Souljah praise its gripping narrative and raw portrayal of urban life, drawing readers into protagonist Winter Santiaga’s tumultuous world. Critics note the vivid characterization and unapologetic storytelling, though some find the plot reliant on heavy tropes. Overall, it is celebrated for its cultural impact and compelling themes.
Who Should Read The Coldest Winter Ever?
Readers who would enjoy The Coldest Winter Ever by Sister Souljah are those captivated by urban fiction, gritty narratives, and complex character development. Fans of The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas and Push by Sapphire will appreciate its exploration of inner-city struggles, resilience, and social issues.
59,348 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Ricky Santiaga
Ricky Santiaga
Winter’s father, a charismatic and respected drug lord in Brooklyn who provides a life of luxury for his family until he is imprisoned.
Momma
Momma
Winter’s mother, who had her at a young age and is obsessed with beauty, eventually becomes addicted to drugs after Santiaga's incarceration.
Midnight (Bilal Odé)
Midnight (Bilal Odé)
A drug dealer working for Santiaga who lives modestly, rejects Winter's advances, and plays a significant role in her younger sisters' lives.
Sister Souljah
Sister Souljah
A civil rights activist who takes Winter in and is committed to helping the community and young people in need.
Natalie
Natalie
Winter’s former best friend, known for spreading gossip and reappearing in Winter's life during a crucial period.
Rashida
Rashida
The only girl at The House of Success who befriends Winter and connects her with Sister Souljah.
Bullet
Bullet
Winter’s possessive and abusive boyfriend who ultimately causes trouble for her.
Porsche
Porsche
Winter's little sister, who shares her materialistic values and seems to follow a similar path.
544
Novel • Fiction
Brooklyn, New York • 1990s
1999
Adult
18+ years
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