Black Star

Kwame Alexander
80 pages2-hour read
Fiction
Novel/Book in Verse
Middle Grade
Published in 2024

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Book Brief

Kwame Alexander

Black Star

Fiction | Novel/Book in Verse | Middle Grade | Published in 2024
Book Details
Pages

384

Format

Novel/Book in Verse • Fiction

Genre
Historical Fiction

•

African American Literature
Theme
Race

•

Coming of Age

•

Family
Topic
Race & Racism
First Publication Year

2024

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

Reviews & Readership

4.4

1,064 ratings

90%

Loved it

9%

Mixed feelings

1%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Kwame Alexander's Black Star shines with its lyrical prose and poignant storytelling, earning praise for its emotional depth and vibrant characters. Readers appreciate the novel’s exploration of identity and heritage. However, some critique its pacing and complex narrative structure, which might challenge less patient readers. Overall, it’s a heartfelt and enriching read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Black Star?

A reader who enjoys Black Star by Kwame Alexander likely appreciates compelling narratives that explore cultural identity and personal growth, similar to fans of The Crossover by Alexander and Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson. This reader values poetic storytelling and rich character development.

4.4

1,064 ratings

90%

Loved it

9%

Mixed feelings

1%

Not a fan

Character List

The twelve-year-old protagonist and narrator, known for her bravery, intelligence, and competitive nature, who dreams of becoming a professional baseball player despite societal expectations.

Charley's grandfather and mentor, a wise and compassionate elder who provides Charley with guidance and stories that help her understand her family heritage and the world around her.

Charley's best friend, who shares her passion for baseball and often uses humor to lighten the mood; his actions highlight his loyalty and care for Charley.

Charley's mother, a steadfast and protective figure who initially discourages Charley's baseball ambitions but gradually comes to accept her daughter's dreams.

Charley's father, who supports her interest in baseball and offers encouragement despite his frequent physical absence due to work.

A minor character and Charley's main rival, known for his competitive and bossy demeanor, which fuels Charley's motivation to improve her baseball skills.

Book Details
Pages

384

Format

Novel/Book in Verse • Fiction

Genre
Historical Fiction

•

African American Literature
Theme
Race

•

Coming of Age

•

Family
Topic
Race & Racism
First Publication Year

2024

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

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