59 pages • 1 hour read
This Side of Home
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Book Brief
326
Novel • Fiction
Portland, Oregon • Contemporary
2015
YA
14-18 years
Super Short Summary
Published in 2015, Renée Watson’s This Side of Home follows twin sisters Maya and Nikki as they navigate the personal and community impact of gentrification in their Portland, Oregon neighborhood. While Maya clings to the history and identity of their community, Nikki embraces new changes and opportunities. As they confront issues of identity, race, and belonging, their friendship and values are tested. The novel contains depictions of racism, alcoholism, and verbal abuse.
Contemplative
Inspirational
Emotional
Nostalgic
Reviews & Readership
3,182 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Renée Watson's This Side of Home is praised for its compelling exploration of gentrification, identity, and belonging through the experiences of twin sisters. Critics appreciate Watson's authentic voice and relatable characters. However, some note a predictable plot and wish for deeper character development. Overall, a heartfelt and thought-provoking read.
Who Should Read This Side of Home?
Readers who enjoy thought-provoking coming-of-age stories with social and cultural themes will appreciate This Side of Home by Renée Watson. Fans of Angie Thomas’s The Hate U Give or Jacqueline Woodson’s Brown Girl Dreaming will find similar resonance in Watson's exploration of racial identity, gentrification, and sisterhood.
3,182 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Nikki Younger
Nikki Younger
Maya's easygoing twin sister known for her calm personality, who acts as a foil to Maya's passionate nature and provides contrasting perspectives on community change.
Essence Jackson
Essence Jackson
Maya’s best friend and a fellow senior at Richmond High, who faces challenges due to her unstable home life but remains resilient and loyal to those she cares about.
Tony Jacobs
Tony Jacobs
Maya’s love interest, a creative and open-minded high school senior who supports Maya’s endeavors and learns to appreciate her cultural background.
Principal Green
Principal Green
The principal of Richmond High who, despite his well-meaning intentions, often clashes with Maya due to his focus on the school's reputation and controversial decision-making.
326
Novel • Fiction
Portland, Oregon • Contemporary
2015
YA
14-18 years
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