November Blues

Sharon M. Draper
71 pages2-hour read
Fiction
Novel
YA
Published in 2007

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Book Brief

Sharon M. Draper

November Blues

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2007
Book Details
Pages

400

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Realistic Fiction

•

Education

•

Modern Classic Fiction
Setting

Cincinnati, Ohio • Contemporary

Topic
Education
First Publication Year

2007

Publisher

Atheneum Books for Young Readers

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-18 years

Lexile Level

770L

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Super Short Summary

November Blues by Sharon M. Draper centers on African-American students at Frederick Douglass High School coping with the death of Josh Prescott after a pledge stunt and the subsequent revelation that his girlfriend, November Nelson, is pregnant. As these characters navigate grief, guilt, and teenage pregnancy, the novel explores themes of self-forgiveness, friendship, and resilience. Topics include grief and teenage pregnancy.

Emotional

Challenging

Melancholic

Inspirational

Heartwarming

Reviews & Readership

4.3

4,345 ratings

83%

Loved it

12%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Sharon M. Draper's November Blues delves into teen pregnancy with emotional depth and complex characters. Reviewers praise Draper's realistic portrayal of challenges faced by teens, highlighting her adept character development and relatable narrative. However, some critique the pacing and predictability. Overall, it's a compelling read addressing significant issues.

Who should read this

Who Should Read November Blues?

Readers who enjoyed The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas or Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson will appreciate November Blues by Sharon M. Draper. Targeting young adults, this novel explores deep themes of teenage pregnancy, loss, and resilience with authenticity and emotional depth.

4.3

4,345 ratings

83%

Loved it

12%

Mixed feelings

5%

Not a fan

Character List

A diligent student at Frederick Douglass High School who faces unexpected challenges impacting her academic and personal future.

November’s boyfriend who tragically dies during a school club stunt.

Cousin and best friend to Josh, he grapples with grief and guilt, finding solace in football and music.

November’s mother and an eighth-grade art teacher who supports her daughter through challenging circumstances.

November’s best friend and a supportive figure, helping her navigate the challenges she faces.

A classmate of November's who becomes a supportive friend despite struggling with bullying at school.

Josh's parents, dealing with the loss of their son and considering adopting their grandchild.

The music teacher at Frederick Douglass High School who encourages Jericho’s musical talents.

The head football coach who motivates his team at Frederick Douglass High School.

A doctor providing medical care and support to November during her pregnancy.

An English teacher known for her strict demeanor but also for her empathy and understanding.

An American History teacher with a strict classroom policy who inadvertently prompts November to share significant news.

Jericho's ex-girlfriend whose actions affect his emotional journey.

A popular student who faces legal trouble.

Dana’s boyfriend and a supportive friend to Jericho and November.

A senior and captain of the football team urging Jericho to join.

Jericho's stepmother who offers him support.

Jericho's stepbrothers who look up to him.

Jericho's father who serves as a supportive figure in his life.

The lawyer hired to manage legal issues for Josh's parents.

President of Excelsior Alumni Association Boosters, interacting with the Douglass football team.

Paramedics who assist November during a critical moment.

A nurse who assists with November’s care during delivery.

A NICU chief resident involved in explaining medical conditions related to the storyline.

Book Details
Pages

400

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Realistic Fiction

•

Education

•

Modern Classic Fiction
Setting

Cincinnati, Ohio • Contemporary

Topic
Education
First Publication Year

2007

Publisher

Atheneum Books for Young Readers

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-18 years

Lexile Level

770L

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