Book details
Standing Against the Wind
Description
In her debut novel, Traci L. Jones presents a girl with grit she never knew she had, and a boy so inspired by her that he begins to take pride in his own abilities. Patrice dreams of a first-class education, but right now she's just got to survive the walk to school.Patrice Williams was happy living in Georgia with her grandmother...then her mother lured her to Chicago and ended up in jail. Living in the projects, Patrice is an easy target for everyone. Not only won't she stand up for herself, she cares about her grades--unlike her classmates. But that draws the attention of Monty Freeman, another eighth grader who asks Patrice to tutor his little brother. When Monty becomes her guardian angel, Patrice begins to think something stronger than friendship might be growing between them. Still, nothing will stop her from applying for a scholarship at prestigious Dogwood Academy--except her mother. Winner of the 2007 Coretta Scott King-John Steptoe New Talent Award A 2007 Bank Street - Best Children's Book of the Year
Age
12-14
Text complexity
intermediate
Length
208 pages
Why to read
- Empowering Narrative: 'Standing Against the Wind' is an inspiring story of resilience and determination. It showcases the protagonist, Patrice Williams, as she navigates the challenges of adolescence and poverty, providing readers with a powerful example of how to overcome adversity with grace and strength.
- Cultural Insight: The book offers a deep dive into the African American experience, particularly focusing on the life of a young girl in an urban environment. This perspective is valuable for readers seeking to understand and appreciate the complexities and richness of different cultural backgrounds.
- Award-Winning Literature: The novel has been recognized with the Coretta Scott King/John Steptoe New Talent Author Award, signaling its quality and the impact it has had. Readers looking for critically acclaimed literature that speaks to the experiences of young African American girls will find this book both compelling and rewarding.
- Character Development: Traci L. Jones has crafted a story with well-developed characters that readers can relate to and learn from. The growth and personal development of Patrice throughout the novel can serve as an inspiration for young readers, especially those who are facing their own personal challenges.