52 pages • 1 hour read
White Lilacs
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Book Brief
258
Novel • Fiction
Denton, Texas • 1920s
1993
YA
10-14 years
990L
Super Short Summary
White Lilacs by Carolyn Meyer tells the story of 12-year-old Rose Lee Jefferson, an African American girl living in 1921 Freedomtown, Texas, a thriving Black community. When the white residents of the surrounding town of Dillon plan to displace Freedomtown to build a park, Rose Lee witnesses her community's fight to preserve their homes and heritage against systemic racism and class prejudice. This novel contains themes of racial violence and discrimination.
Contemplative
Melancholic
Dark
Emotional
Inspirational
Reviews & Readership
775 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Carolyn Meyer’s White Lilacs presents a poignant depiction of racial tensions in 1920s Texas through engaging storytelling and well-developed characters. Reviewers praise its historical accuracy and emotional depth but note that the pacing can be uneven. Despite this, the novel’s exploration of resilience and community garners overall positive reception.
Who Should Read White Lilacs?
The ideal reader for White Lilacs by Carolyn Meyer would enjoy historical fiction that delves into African American experiences, particularly in the early 20th century. Fans of Mildred D. Taylor's Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry or Lois Lowry's Number the Stars will appreciate the book's rich narrative and strong, resilient characters dealing with societal challenges.
775 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Henry Jefferson
Henry Jefferson
Rose Lee’s 21-year-old brother, who returned from fighting in World War I. He is passionate about resisting the planned forced relocation of their community.
Aunt Susannah
Aunt Susannah
Rose Lee’s well-educated aunt from St. Louis who moves to Freedom. She works as a schoolteacher and provides guidance to the community.
Catherine Jane Bell
Catherine Jane Bell
The 14-year-old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Bell. She used to be friends with Rose Lee and still sympathizes with her despite their families' differences.
Emily Firth
Emily Firth
A schoolteacher at the white school in Dillon. She encourages Rose Lee's artistic talents and supports the Black community through education.
Mr. Thomas Bell
Mr. Thomas Bell
An employer of Rose Lee’s family and a key figure in the white society of Dillon. His actions secretly drive the decision to force the Black citizens out of Freedom.
258
Novel • Fiction
Denton, Texas • 1920s
1993
YA
10-14 years
990L
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