93 pages • 3 hours read
A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more. For select classroom titles, we also provide Teaching Guides with discussion and quiz questions to prompt student engagement.
304
Novel • Fiction
Harlem, New York • Contemporary
2018
Middle grade
10-14 years
650L
The Stars Beneath Our Feet follows 12-year-old Wallace "Lolly" Rachpaul, who navigates life in Harlem following his brother's tragic death, finding solace in building Lego structures with his friend Big Rose. As he creates an expansive Lego city at his after-school program, Lolly grapples with his grief, friendships, and aspirations, learning that creativity and choices shape his future. Topics include grief, gun violence, and loss of a family member.
Hopeful
Emotional
Heartwarming
9,977 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
David Barclay Moore's The Stars Beneath Our Feet offers a heartfelt, engaging narrative centered on personal growth and the power of community. Its authentic portrayal of grief and perseverance resonates strongly with readers, though some find the pacing uneven. Overall, it is praised for its positive representation and relatable, multidimensional characters.
A reader who would enjoy The Stars Beneath Our Feet by David Barclay Moore likely appreciates poignant coming-of-age stories that tackle themes of resilience, loss, and urban life. Fans of The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas and Wonder by R.J. Palacio will find this compelling novel similarly engaging and heartwarming.
9,977 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Casimiro Vega
Lolly’s best friend who is playful and musically talented, facing challenges that force him to make crucial choices about his future.
Rose Major
A girl in Lolly’s after-school program with a cognitive difference, who shares Lolly’s passion for building Lego and becomes an important friend in his life.
Jermaine Rachpaul
Lolly's older brother who is deceased before the start of the narrative, with his life choices and legacy profoundly affecting Lolly and his family.
Mr. Ali
The director of Lolly's after-school program, known for his insightful and patient demeanor, helping Lolly to confront his emotions.
Sue-Ellen (Lolly’s Mom)
A loving and protective mother dealing with the loss of her son, she sometimes struggles with how to best support Lolly.
Yvonne
Lolly’s mom’s girlfriend, who is supportive and goes to great lengths to help Lolly cope with his grief.
Daddy Rachpaul
Lolly's father, originally from Trinidad, who values physical strength and is emotionally distant from Lolly.
Steve Jenkins
A positive role model in Lolly’s life, encouraging him to pursue his artistic talents and think about his future.
Sunnshyne Dixon-Knight
A fellow participant in Lolly’s after-school program who starts as a bully but grows increasingly mature as the story progresses.
304
Novel • Fiction
Harlem, New York • Contemporary
2018
Middle grade
10-14 years
650L
Continue your reading experience
Subscribe now to unlock the rest of this Study Guide plus our full library, which features expert-written summaries and analyses of 8,000+ additional titles.