I thought this was good. Not necessarily entertaining but engaging. Unlike recent YA/MG that teach others about racism and microaggressions, I felt like this one was speaking to Black readers or anyone who has had to deal with ignorance and discrimination. Because of the different audience, this is more relevant to kids of colors instead of repeating what they already know. 

The book acknowledges some people will have straight up racist and/or ignorant views, and it’s up to YOU if you want to engage and correct them. I think that’s a balanced message to tell kids though, at times, the book can imply just being nice to racist people or people with a racist belief will change them.

very realistic that Ms Baylor stayed the same way.

 

In addition, Madlyn’s parents are working hard in different states and counties, so she has been moved to different schools and, now, a different living arrangement. The frustration Madlyn feels with her life being uprooted but not wanting to burden her parents was very well done. 

Also, I love Louisiana accents, NOLA in particular, and the spotlight on creole heritage was great. The cloud motif and the dry fires went well together.