FEATHERS by Jacqueline Woodson

FEATHERS by Jacqueline Woodson

Bibliography: Woodson, Jacqueline. 2007. FEATHERS. London, England: Penguin Books Ltd.

Summary: “Feathers” revolves around a little girl named Frannie, who lives in 1971 on one side of the freeway, the other was for the white people.  One day a white boy came to Frannie’s elementary.  “The Jesus Boy” caused quite a stir and Frannie’s friend Samantha, whose father is a minister at a local church, even believes he might be Jesus.  Frannie’s blossoming friendship with “the Jesus Boy” makes her rethink the things she knew and what is right and wrong. 

Critical Analysis: Of all the books I have reviewed lately, this is my favorite.  The way Jacqueline Woodson explains the time, place, and people, the reader really feels like they understand how the characters are feeling.  My favorite character in the book, isn’t even a main character.  Frannie’s brother Sean is the best part of the book for me.  Sean is deaf and everyday society in the 1970’s reminds him of that.  Girls think he’s handsome but when they find out he’s deaf they say, “dang, all that fineness wasted.” I loved that no matter what happened he still hoped that things would get better.  The story’s language is very period appropriate and extremely fascinating. I would recommend this book to ANYONE.

Review Excerpts:

·      School Library Journal: “Woodson creates in Frannie a strong protagonist who thinks for herself and recognizes the value and meaning of family. The story ends with hop and thoughtfulness while speaking to those adolescents who struggle with race, faith, and prejudice.”

·      Publisher’s Weekly: “Woodson’s novel skillfully weaves in the music and events surrounding the rising opposition to the Vietnam War, giving this timeless story depth.”

·      Newbery Honor Book

Connections:

·      This book would be a great book for any middle school or high school student to read when studying race dynamics or the Vietnam War.

·      The discussion questions in the back of the book, are great conversation starters for a class.

·      Other books by this author:

o   Woodson, Jacqueline. 2006. LENA. New York, NY: Speak Publishing/ Penguin Group. ISBN: 978-0142406168.

o   Woodson, Jacqueline. 2010. THE DEAR ONE. New York, NY: Puffin Publishing. ISBN: 978-0142417058.